Kroger Agrees to $125 Million Settlement Over Calorie Labeling Claims in California

Kroger has agreed to pay $125 million to settle a California consumer protection lawsuit alleging the company falsely advertised the calorie content of several store-brand bread products sold throughout the state.

According to Riverside County District Attorney Mike Hestrin, investigators found that certain bread products sold at Ralphs, Food 4 Less and Foods Co stores were marketed as containing significantly fewer calories than they actually did.

The lawsuit alleged the inaccurate labeling misled consumers who relied on nutritional information when making purchasing decisions.

The settlement resolves claims brought by California prosecutors and includes civil penalties, reimbursement of investigation costs and funding for future consumer protection efforts.

Officials said accurate food labeling is essential for consumers, particularly those monitoring calorie intake for health, dietary or medical reasons.

The agreement does not include an admission of wrongdoing by Kroger but requires the company to resolve the allegations and address issues related to the products identified in the investigation.

Consumer protection officials say the settlement reinforces the importance of truthful advertising and accurate nutritional labeling in the marketplace.

The funds from the settlement will be used to support enforcement efforts and consumer protection programs across California.