Publix Super Markets Inc.

A class action lawsuit has been filed against the super market chain claiming two of the company's store brand sodas contain unsafe levels of the carcinogen benzene. The lawsuit claims concerns about benzene have been known to the food and beverage industries for years, but Publix has not taken necessary steps to prevent its formation in their Diet Lemon-Lime and Grape sodas. Benzene can form in soft drinks made with Vitamin C and sodium or potassium benzoate. The lawsuit claims Publix used benzoate preservatives because they are much less expensive than the use of available pasteurization processes to preserve the freshness of soft drinks. Consumers are seeking damages from Publix for breach of warranty and deceptive trade practices.