Italian food company has been accused of “tomato fraud” in a new class action lawsuit seeking at least $25 million.
Two California customers claim the company falsely marketed its canned tomatoes as “Certified San Marzano” tomatoes, a premium Italian variety often considered the luxury version of canned tomatoes.
According to the lawsuit, Cento’s products allegedly do not match the taste, texture, and quality consumers expect from authentic San Marzano tomatoes, despite the branding on the cans.
The plaintiffs argue that the “Certified San Marzano” label misled customers into paying premium prices for a product they say was inaccurately advertised.
Cento has rejected the allegations, calling the lawsuit “entirely without merit” and saying it previously defeated a similar case in New York federal court. The company is now seeking a quick dismissal of the new filing.