A frivolous, nuisance lawsuit filed through the vegan, animal rights group, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) and its “Cancer Project” has been dismissed.
In July 2009 three New Jersey residents filed a class action lawsuit in New Jersey against several hot dog manufacturers claiming they were exposed to carcinogens by eating hot dogs – even though none of the plaintiffs had actually developed cancer. The lawsuit sought money damages and an order that hot dogs bear a warning label. The hot dog makers filed a motion to dismiss the case and on March 18, 2010, Judge Jose Linares in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey granted that motion.
"We are pleased that the court moved quickly and dismissed this lawsuit, recognizing it for the nuisance that it is," said AMI President J. Patrick Boyle. "Meat products are regulated and inspected by the United States Department of Agriculture and bear the federal government's seal of inspection, showing they are wholesome and nutritious. The lawsuit argued for warning labels on our products, but warning labels would be more appropriately placed on PCRM's Web sites and press releases to alert consumers to that organization’s true anti-meat agenda."
Boyle said that the U.S. Dietary Guidelines affirm that processed meat and poultry products — including hot dogs — can be a healthy part of a balanced diet. They are also among America's most popular and beloved foods.
"Just as consumers need to eat a healthy, balanced diet, they need balanced information. Check with credible health sources like your doctor, dietician, or the U.S. Dietary Guidelines. You can be assured that they will tell you that a healthy diet can include processed meats," Boyle concluded.
Source: American Meat Institute