WASHINGTON – Food & Water Watch (FWW) filed a letter with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) alleging Smithfield Foods Inc. used false and misleading advertising related to its sustainability efforts.

The letter to the FTC claims Smithfield has "greenwashed" much of its advertising on its website and social media channels.

“Despite its greenwashing, Smithfield utilizes the same unsustainable methods used to produce the overwhelming majority of pigs raised in the United States and is one of the largest polluters in the country,” the letter said.

Smithfield responded to what it said are unfounded claims from FWW.

“This letter, from groups that repeatedly attack agricultural companies and farmers, contains false allegations and is without merit," said Keira Lombardo, chief administrative officer for Smithfield.  “We remain focused on providing safe, affordable food while pursuing our ambitious sustainability goals from coast to coast.”

The letter urges the FTC to require Smithfield to remove the misleading marketing claims and stop Smithfield from making the claims in the future. The group also wants Smithfield to make corrective statements.