No Proof: Whole Foods Cocoa $650K Class Action Settlement
If you bought a 12-ounce 365 Organic Hot Cocoa Mix in California between Nov 3 2017 and Mar 13 2025, you could pocket around $2.90–$4.10 from this settlement. Submit a simple claim—no receipt needed for up to two units—by Oct 14 2025.
Who Qualifies?
- Purchased at least one 12-oz canister of:
- 365 Organic Hot Cocoa Rich Chocolate Flavor Mix, or
- 365 Everyday Value Organic Hot Cocoa Rich Chocolate Flavor Mix
- Bought in a California Whole Foods store or online while physically in California
- Purchase window: Nov 3 2017 – Mar 13 2025
Payout Details
The settlement sets aside $100,000 for class-member payments. Cash awards will be split evenly (pro rata) among all valid claims—currently estimated at $2.90 to $4.10 per person.
No Proof Needed (Up to 2 Units)
You may file one claim per person without receipts for up to two units per household. Submitting three or more claims from the same address triggers a proof-of-purchase requirement for the third and subsequent units.
How to File a Claim
- Complete the online claim form or download the paper form below.
- Select your preferred payment method:
- PayPal
- Venmo
- Zelle
- Virtual prepaid card
- Physical check
- Submit online or mail the paper form postmarked by Oct 14 2025.
Key Dates
- Claim deadline: Oct 14 2025
- Opt-out/objection deadline: Oct 14 2025
- Final approval hearing: Dec 3 2025
- Estimated payment window: 30–60 days after final approval & any appeals
Why the Case Settled
Plaintiffs alleged that Whole Foods packaged its 365 hot cocoa in oversized opaque canisters containing non-functional empty space (slack-fill), misleading shoppers about the true quantity. The lawsuit asserted violations of California’s Consumer Legal Remedies Act, Unfair Competition Law, False Advertising Law, and negligent misrepresentation. Whole Foods denies wrongdoing but agreed to a $650,000 deal to avoid litigation risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a receipt for the Whole Foods Cocoa settlement?
No, receipts are not required for up to two units per household. If you submit three or more claims from the same address, proof of purchase is needed for each additional claim.
How much money can I expect from the Whole Foods Cocoa class action?
Payments are projected at roughly $2.90–$4.10 each, but the exact amount depends on the total number of valid claims filed.
When will the Whole Foods Cocoa settlement pay out?
Checks or electronic payments should go out 30–60 days after the court grants final approval on Dec 3 2025 and any appeals are resolved.
Can I update my contact info instead of filing a claim?
Yes. If you received an email notice with a Notice ID and PIN, you can update your address or choose a payment method on the settlement site without filing a new claim.
What happens to leftover funds from the Whole Foods Cocoa settlement?
Any remaining money after a second distribution (if each payment would be at least $1) will be donated to the California Association of Food Banks, pending court approval.
Need Help?
Settlement Administrator: Simpluris
Goodwin Hot Cocoa Settlement
PO Box 25412, Santa Ana, CA 92799
Phone: 1-833-296-0836
Email: info@GoodwinHotCocoaSettlement.com