Smart Water Lawsuits: Navigating Marketing Claims and Contamination Concerns
Smart Water Marketing Lawsuit (2019):
- Claim: Deceptive marketing practices, specifically misleading claims about “vapor distilled water with electrolytes” being unique or superior.
- Accusation: No significant difference compared to other bottled water brands.
- Impact: Class action lawsuit seeking damages for deceived consumers.
- Outcome: 2020 settlement for $19.5 million without admission of wrongdoing but with agreement to modify marketing practices.
Smart Water Contamination Lawsuit (2022):
- Claim: Product contamination with benzene, a known carcinogen posing health risks like leukemia and lymphoma.
- Allegation: Faulty filtration system at Pennsylvania bottling plant causing contamination.
- Status: Ongoing lawsuit, with Smart Water denying allegations and asserting product safety.
Impact on Consumers:
- Raised concerns about bottled water safety and potential hazards.
- Encourages awareness of potential risks associated with bottled water.
- Emphasizes choosing brands with good reputations for quality and safety.
| Complete Date | Case | Citation | Court | Short Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 (Settled) | Class Action Lawsuit v. Smart Water | N/A | N/A | Deceptive marketing claims alleging no difference from other brands; settled for $19.5 million with marketing changes. |
| 2022 (Ongoing) | Lawsuit v. Smart Water | N/A | N/A | Benzene contamination claims; Smart Water denies and asserts product safety; lawsuit ongoing. |
