Leeman Files Suits Against Three Makers of Maple Flavor, Caramel Color

On March 13, Dr. Whitney Leeman, a client of The Chanler Group, commenced three Proposition 65 private enforcement actions today against manufacturers, distributors, and sellers of food extracts, flavors, and colorings containing 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI or 4MI), a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer.  4-MEI is used in the manufacture of caramel coloring, giving food and beverage items like colas their distinctive brown colors, and products containing 4-MEI (such as imitation maple flavor and caramel color) are being offered for sale in California without the health hazard warnings as required by Proposition 65.

The companies named in the lawsuits include McCormick & Company, Adams Extract & Spice, and Farmer Bros.   Read the full press release.

See below for the complaints.