Tuna Class Action Settlement – Everything You Need to Know

If you purchased packaged tuna between June 2011 and July 2015, you may be entitled to benefits from a class action settlement involving major tuna companies. This case, known as the Tuna Class Action Settlement (In Re: Packaged Seafood Products Antitrust Litigation), involves allegations that tuna producers engaged in price-fixing, causing consumers to overpay for their products. The companies involved include StarKist, Lion Capital, and previously Chicken of the Sea (COSI).

Why is There a Settlement?

The lawsuit alleges that tuna companies participated in an illegal conspiracy to raise the price of packaged tuna, violating antitrust laws. The End Payer Plaintiffs (EPPs), who represent consumers, filed the case against several companies, including StarKist and Lion Capital. Both companies deny the claims but have agreed to a settlement to avoid further litigation and costs.

What Does This Settlement Cover?

The StarKist and Lion Settlement covers those who purchased packaged tuna in cans or pouches (less than 40 ounces) in specific states during the Class Period. If you were a resident of one of the 30+ affected states, you might be eligible for compensation. This settlement is separate from the previously approved COSI Settlement, which resolved claims against Chicken of the Sea.

Class Action and Your Rights

In a class action, one or more individuals represent a larger group of people with similar claims. In this case, the class includes consumers who purchased tuna from the companies involved. If you didn’t opt out of the earlier settlement or the litigation notice, you are automatically included and bound by the court’s final judgment.

Who Is Eligible for Compensation?

If you lived in one of the following states and bought packaged tuna from June 1, 2011, to July 1, 2015, you may be part of the Settlement Class: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, New York, and more. Excluded groups include those who opted out of the settlement or anyone who purchased tuna as part of meal kits.

Settlement Benefits

The settlement with StarKist totals $130 million, and the Lion Capital settlement adds another $6 million. Combined with the previous COSI settlement, the total fund is $152.2 million. Settlement Class Members could receive approximately $24.50 for every 200 cans purchased, though the final payout depends on how many claims are submitted.

Class Counsel, who has represented the plaintiffs throughout the litigation, will also receive compensation, with attorneys’ fees potentially totaling up to 33% of the settlement fund.

Next Steps and Deadlines

To receive a payment, Class Members must submit a valid claim before December 31, 2024. If you already filed a claim in the COSI settlement, there is no need to file again.