Cento Fine Foods, based in New Jersey, is facing a proposed class action lawsuit filed in federal court in California alleging that it misrepresented its canned tomatoes as 'certified' San Marzano products. The lawsuit claims that these tomatoes do not meet the stringent standards required for the Protected Designation of Origin (DOP), which ensures that authentic San Marzano tomatoes are grown and processed in a specific region of southern Italy. The plaintiffs assert that they purchased Cento's tomatoes under the belief they were authentic, and they would not have made the purchase had they known the truth. The lawsuit seeks at least $25 million in restitution and demands changes to Cento's labeling practices. In response, Cento's attorney stated that the company believes the claims are without merit and plans to defend itself vigorously, referencing a previous similar lawsuit that was dismissed in 2020. Cento maintains that its tomatoes are sourced from audited fields in Italy, ensuring compliance with quality standards.