Urgent for Target and Kroger customers: If you bought chicken, you need to know this

If you made purchases at chains like Target or Kroger over the last decade, there is a legal development that might interest you. It is a matter that directly affects millions of consumers in the United States. The economic implications of this case are significant and may impact you if you were one of the buyers.

For some time now, a class action lawsuit has been underway related to the sale of raw chicken between 2009 and 2019. According to judicial authorities, several poultry producers allegedly manipulated prices illegally, thus affecting the end consumer. Thanks to a judicial settlement, there is a compensation fund for those who can prove they bought these products at chains like Target, Kroger, or Amazon.

A Million-Dollar Settlement for Inflated Prices

The case was presented in the Northern District of Illinois Court and has gained notoriety due to the figures involved. As a result of the settlement, $22.5 million were added to a fund that already had $181 million, raising the total available to $203.5 million. This money is intended to compensate those who paid more than fair for raw chicken over ten years.

The accusation claims that several companies agreed among themselves to inflate prices, thus altering the market and harming the public. The brands mentioned are among the most well-known in the sector, such as Tyson Foods and Pilgrim's Pride. Although none admitted to having committed irregularities, many agreed to pay million-dollar sums to close the judicial process.

Companies like George's, Mar-Jac Poultry, and Fieldale Farms are also involved, whose products were sold in stores like Sam's Club and Instacart. Despite the seriousness of the complaint, no criminal penalties were imposed, as these were voluntary economic agreements. The individual payments from each company vary, but in some cases reach up to five million dollars, according to La Nación.

Who Can File a Claim and What Is Needed

The compensation is available for people who bought raw chicken in 25 states of the United States and the District of Columbia. Among the states included are California, New York, Florida, Texas, and Illinois, among others. The measure doesn't cover deli products or cooked chicken, only raw chicken sold for home preparation.

Consumers who want to access the money can present receipts or other documents as proof of purchase, which will allow them to receive a larger sum. If they do not have receipts, they can still claim, although the amount will depend on the total number of claims. All claims must be submitted before July 31, 2025.

The final hearing of the case is scheduled for June 30, 2025. People who wish to exclude themselves from the settlement or file objections must do so before May 12. If a claim was previously filed, it is not necessary to repeat the process, as all data submitted in the first instance will be respected.