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McCormick & Co., a popular spice maker, faces a federal lawsuit from competitor Watkins Inc. over alleged deceptive packaging. Watkins claims McCormick reduced the amount of pepper in its tins by 25% without adjusting the tin size, accusing them of “slack-filling.” The old 8-ounce McCormick tins now contain 6 ounces, maintaining the same visual size. Watkins contends this deceives customers, damaging their sales.
Watkins and McCormick, selling identical products, differ in packaging. McCormick’s non-see-through containers obscure content, while Watkins uses a smaller container for the same amount. McCormick argues its labeled tins avoid deceptive marketing. However, critics, including angry customers filing a class-action lawsuit, disagree. Both cases are progressing in federal court.
