On August 9, 2012, our attorneys filed a class action in the Federal District Court for the Southern District of New York on behalf of all New York consumers who purchased Smart Balance Spreadable Butter. The case seeks redress for consumers who purchased the spreads, which Smart Balance falsely claims help lower cholesterol because they contain 100 mg of plant sterol per serving.
The complaint in this case alleges that Smart Balance’s health claim is misleading. While there is some scientific support for the general claim that plant sterols can reduce cholesterol by blocking its absorption, 100 mg is likely far too little to help block cholesterol. In fact, people need a minimum of 800mg of plant sterols daily to have any appreciable effect; not only is that far more than one serving, but eating 8 servings of butter spread would likely be counter productive, to say the least.
If you or someone you know purchased Smart Balance Spreadable Butter, please contact us to discuss your legal options.