Colgate is paying out $2.9 million to certain toothpaste buyers
If you're a loyal Colgate brand toothpaste user, you may be eligible for a cash payout. A settlement will require Colgate to pay out $2.9 million after "misleading customers" in the marketing of its Tom's of Maine products.
Class action suit results in payout for customers
It looks like Colgate-Palmolive will be paying the price for "misleading customers" when it comes to its Tom's of Maine products. The class action suit alleged that the safety of consumers was put at risk by the toothpaste.
The FDA's inspection of the products in question was alarming, with findings uncovering a failure to meet the FDA's "Current Good Manufacturing Processes."
After the findings were released, Colgate-Palmolive allegedly continued with its original marketing of Tom's of Maine toothpaste. The claims were that the product was "naturally effective" and "naturally sourced."
The company doesn't admit to any wrongdoing
While Colgate-Palmolive has agreed to the settlement, it hasn't admitted to any wrongdoing with the Tom's of Maine toothpaste.
What happens if the total claims are higher than the $2.9 million settlement? It will then be reduced on a pro rata basis.
On the flip side, if the claims are less than the settlement amount, the remaining cash will be donated to Equal Justice Works.
What this means for you
If you purchased the product, you have until July 6, 2026, to file a claim and get your share of the settlement. You need to have purchased the toothpaste between Nov. 21, 2020, and Mar. 6, 2026.
You'll need proof of purchase to get the full refund. The maximum purchases each person qualifies for are three tubes of toothpaste.
If you don't have proof of purchase, and let's face it, that's probably the case, you can get a payment based on the average retail price of the product.
Check your cupboard for the product
This is a great time to go through your cupboard, and check if you've got any of the products involved in the settlement.
Source: The U.S. Sun
