Recent cases involving chemical and pharmaceutical giants highlight the ongoing struggles in ensuring corporate accountability. Notable among these are the legal battles faced by Johnson & Johnson, Formosa Plastics USA, and Irico Group, each embroiled in complex and high-stakes disputes with significant ramifications for the industry and consumers alike.
One of the most headline-grabbing cases is the lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson concerning the alleged deceptive marketing practices related to their talcum powder products. The company has been accused of targeting communities of color with products containing talcum, despite potential health risks, including heightened risks of cancer due to asbestos contamination. New York Attorney General Letitia James, along with 42 other state attorneys general, secured a $700 million settlement from the company, with $44 million allocated to New York. “Targeting communities with cosmetic products that contain dangerous substances is not just illegal, it is very cruel,” stated James. However, Johnson & Johnson has not admitted to any wrongdoing.
Meanwhile, the case against Formosa Plastics USA and others over alleged price-fixing of caustic soda, a chemical used in detergents and other products, highlights another dimension of corporate malfeasance. The litigation, which began in 2019, saw Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth Wolford rejecting a $38.5 million class action settlement. The plaintiffs, including Amrex Chemical Co Inc and Main Pool and Chemical Co Inc, allege a conspiracy to inflate prices. Despite settlements from Formosa, Westlake, and Shintech, Wolford ruled that uncertainties regarding the settlement class and lack of common proof of antitrust injury hindered approval. This case underscores the challenges in achieving fair and equitable resolutions in antitrust litigation.
Irico Group’s struggle to defend itself in a U.S. price-fixing lawsuit involving cathode ray tubes (CRTs) used in computer monitors and television screens further illustrates the complexities of international corporate litigation. Accused of destroying evidence and engaging in litigation misconduct, Irico faces potential multibillion-dollar judgments. Vaughn Walker, a former federal judge overseeing evidence disputes, recommended severe sanctions against Irico for its handling of documents and compliance with court orders. Irico, however, disputes these findings, arguing that it adhered to its standard document-retention practices and litigation protocols.
In another significant development, GSK, Pfizer, Sanofi, and Boehringer Ingelheim’s efforts to halt over 70,000 lawsuits in Delaware over the heartburn drug Zantac have drawn attention from major industry groups. These companies contest the admissibility of expert testimony linking Zantac to cancer, with the United States Chamber of Commerce and Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America arguing that the Delaware courts’ rulings could impact the business-friendly environment of the state. These cases highlight the broader implications of corporate litigation on regulatory and legal environments.
Lastly, Conagra Brands is facing a lawsuit over allegations of deceptive marketing related to their Mrs. Paul’s and Van de Kamp’s frozen fish products. The company is accused of “short weighting” the products by adding water and sodium tripolyphosphate, thus misleading consumers about the actual content and weight of the fish. This lawsuit, filed in Chicago federal court, is part of a broader trend of increased scrutiny and litigation over truthful labeling and marketing practices.
These cases collectively illuminate the ongoing challenges and complexities in holding corporations accountable for their products and practices. They reflect the nuanced interplay between regulatory oversight, legal frameworks, and the relentless pursuit of justice by those affected by corporate actions.
News Sources
- Mrs. Paul’s, Van de Kamp’s fish sticks aren’t ‘100% fish’, lawsuit claims
- Letitia James Celebrates $44 Million Win
- Industry groups back drugmakers’ appeal in Zantac cancer lawsuits
- Chinese state-owned firm faces multibillion-dollar judgment in US price-fixing lawsuit
- US judge rejects settlements in chemical price-fixing class action
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Source: HaystackID
