The recent legal dispute concerning coconut oil challenges the labeling claims made by Barlean’s. As reported by Food Navigator, the company describes its products as “raw whole food,” “harvested at the peak of flavor and nutrition,” “cholesterol-free,” the “ultimate cooking oil for health-conscious gourmets,” and a “healthy alternative to butter.” They also assert that coconut oil is a “natural source of medium chain triglycerides (MCTs)” that can enhance metabolism, support heart and immune health, and provide quick energy. However, the plaintiffs argue that none of these claims are backed by scientific evidence.
Bruce Silverglade, a principal at OFW Law in Washington, D.C., which specializes in resolving competitive disputes related to food labeling and advertising, advised Food Navigator that there may be valid concerns regarding the claims. “The defendants in this case would be wise to settle quickly. Many of their claims are exaggerated,” he noted.
Research has frequently indicated that coconut oil might not be the healthiest option. In 2017, the American Heart Association advised against its use due to its high saturated fat content, which can raise LDL, or “bad” cholesterol. With 82% saturated fat, coconut oil exceeds the levels found in butter, palm oil, or lard. According to SPINS data, culinary coconut oil sales fell nearly 26% in 2017, in stark contrast to the 38.8% growth seen in 2015.
Nonetheless, Food Navigator highlighted a 2010 study that found “no significant evidence” connecting dietary saturated fat to an increased risk of coronary heart disease. Additionally, a 2015 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine concluded that current evidence “does not clearly support” guidelines recommending high consumption of polyunsaturated fatty acids while limiting total saturated fats.
Coconut oil is commonly used for stir-frying, baking, frying foods like potato chips, and as a whipped topping for coffee. Alternatives such as olive, sunflower, or canola oils may offer healthier and lower-calorie options.
In a related case, the Costco coconut oil lawsuit led to a class-action settlement, allowing consumers who purchased Kirkland organic coconut oil to apply for reimbursement from a $775,000 fund set up by the company. This fund also covered plaintiffs’ court costs, attorneys’ fees, and administrative expenses related to the settlement. As part of the agreement, Costco committed to removing the terms “healthy” and “healthful” from its coconut oil product labels.
This latest complaint regarding coconut oil labeling will need to progress through the legal system. While Barlean’s could complete the discovery process and defend its claims in court, it may ultimately opt for a settlement, similar to Costco and others. For companies facing litigation over labeling claims, it might be less costly—in both financial terms and reputation—to amicably withdraw and amend their wording rather than engage in a protracted legal battle and risk losing the case. Additionally, for consumers considering health supplements like Citracal during pregnancy, clarity in labeling can be crucial to making informed choices.