Sources: RLS Media; National Public Radio
Consumers are suing Saracen Company, Inc., the makers of Fireball whiskey, for fraud and misrepresentation, as the mini bottles of the alcoholic beverage don’t actually contain whiskey.
The smaller bottles, named Fireball Cinnamon, are made from a blend of malt beverage and wine, while the whiskey-based products are called Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, according to the company website.
The 99-cent bottles are sold in 170,000 stores, including gas stations and grocery stores, prompting some customers to wonder what products they presumed to contain liquor were doing there, the complaint says.
Upon closer inspection, customers realized the description of the product was “malt beverage with natural whisky & other flavors and carmel color,” insinuating whiskey is an ingredient used in the drink, when it actually uses whiskey flavor, according to the class action lawsuit, which was filed earlier this month in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
“What the label means to say is that the product contains ‘natural whisky flavors & other flavors,’ but by not including the word ‘flavors’ after ‘natural whisky,’ purchasers who look closely will expect the distilled spirit of whisky was added as a separate ingredient,” the complaint says. The lawsuit further states that given the lack of whiskey, 99 cents for a 1.7 fluid ounce bottle is overpriced.
The Sazerac Company was not immediately available for comment.
Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill is launching Valentines for Seniors, which hopes to spread love to our senior community this Valentine’s Day. Residents can drop off Valentine cards at the congresswoman’s office from, Friday January 27 through Friday February 10. They must be submitted in non-sealed envelopes unless mailed to the congresswoman’s office.
The cards will be distributed to senior living homes throughout the NJ-11 district for Valentine’s Day.
“Over the past few years, my office and I have encouraged NJ-11 residents to take the time to show appreciation for members of our community –– from veterans to healthcare providers –– with Valentine’s Day cards. The outpouring of love from people, especially young students, is always heartwarming,” said Rep. Sherrill.
“This year, I am excited to launch ‘Valentines for Seniors’ to spread the love to our senior community in time for Valentine’s Day.”