Consumers file class action accusing Amazon of misleading seafood sustainability claims

Consumers have lodged a proposed class-action in federal court in Seattle, accusing Amazon of green-washing its seafood offerings by using labels such as “dolphin safe,” “responsibly sourced,” and “wild caught.” The plaintiffs contend that the marketing was broad enough to shape purchasing decisions yet lacked the disclosures needed to confirm the sustainability of the catch, potentially causing shoppers to overpay. The complaint covers a range of tuna, salmon and other products sold under well-known brands including Bumble Bee, Chicken of the Sea, StarKist and Amazon’s own 365 by Whole Foods Market label, while the manufacturers’ parent firms are not named as defendants.

Central to the case is the difficulty of tracing seafood to specific vessels, especially when some boats disable tracking transponders. The suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages and alleges violations of Washington consumer protection statutes. Amazon has not responded to requests for comment, and the court will decide whether the case can proceed as a class action.