Class-Action Lawsuit Expands to Include Major Grocery Chains Over Fake Maple Syrup Sales

A legal action, which began as a proposed class-action lawsuit against a Quebec-based syrup producer, has broadened its scope to include several significant grocery store chains. The expanded suit claims that retailers were negligent in selling products that were not pure maple syrup, as advertised.

The original lawsuit was filed in April after reports surfaced that the producer, Steve Bourdeau, was selling syrup adulterated with at least 50 percent cane sugar, contrary to its pure maple syrup labelling. The legal team behind the class action is now seeking to add Metro, Sobeys, Loblaws, and Epicia Group (which operates Val-Mont stores) as defendants.

Lawyers for the plaintiffs argue that these grocery chains demonstrated carelessness by continuing to sell the compromised syrup for an extended period, thereby betraying customer trust. The lead plaintiff, Maude Fraser-Jodoin, reportedly purchased multiple cans of the mislabelled product.

The amended lawsuit contends that the grocery stores knew or should have known about the fraudulent nature of the syrup, citing its significantly lower price compared to genuine maple syrup. It also references past inspection reports suggesting some retailers may have been aware of quality complaints concerning Bourdeau's products much earlier.

While many stores offered refunds after the initial reports, the lawsuit argues this is insufficient. It seeks full reimbursements, interest, and punitive damages for affected consumers across Canada. The producer, Steve Bourdeau, has denied altering his syrup, attributing potential issues to his suppliers. Health Canada has since issued a recall for Bourdeau's products due to container integrity issues and spoilage.