Migliaccio & Rathod LLP is investigating widespread deceptive marketing practices involving supposed compostable products when, in fact, they cannot be composted after normal use. These misleading claims affect consumers trying to make environmentally responsible choices and may violate consumer protection laws.
What’s the Issue with “Compostable” Claims?
Many disposable products—such as facial towels, wipes, or packaging—are marketed as “compostable,” promising consumers that the items will break down harmlessly in compost piles or industrial composting facilities. However, in many cases, once these products are used as directed (for example, with makeup, oils, cleansers, or other substances), they become contaminated and fail to compost properly.
Contaminated products may:
- Not break down as advertised;
- Contaminate compost piles, rendering large amounts of material unusable;
- Leach harmful chemicals into soil, contrary to environmental claims.
Why This Matters to Consumers
Consumers often pay a premium price for products labeled “compostable” because they want to reduce their environmental impact. When these claims are false or misleading, consumers are:
- Deceived into paying more for products that do not meet their advertised benefits;
- Unable to make informed choices about sustainability;
- Potentially contributing to environmental harm they sought to avoid.
Legal Protections and Consumer Rights
False or deceptive labeling about compostability may violate:
- State and federal consumer protection laws;
- False advertising statutes;
- Warranty and misrepresentation laws.
Affected consumers may be entitled to damages, restitution, or injunctive relief through legal action.
Have You Purchased a Supposed Compostable Product?
You may have a claim if:
- You bought disposable products labeled or marketed as “compostable”;
- You relied on these claims when deciding to buy;
- You used the products as intended and found they could not be composted afterward;
- The company did not disclose limitations about compostability clearly or prominently;
- You would have paid less or not purchased if you had known the truth.
Contact Us
If you believe you were misled by “compostable” claims on disposable consumer products, you may be entitled to compensation.
Please complete the confidential questionnaire below. If you have further questions, feel free to email us at [email protected] or call us at (202) 470-3520 to speak confidentially with an attorney.