Campbell’s Soup Executives Recorded Making Inappropriate Comments

According to a lawsuit from a former employee, executives at Campbell’s Soup were reportedly recorded making derogatory remarks about their customers and expressing racist sentiments towards Indian staff members.

Robert Garza, who worked remotely as a Security Analyst in Monroe, Michigan, alleges that he was terminated after he raised concerns about comments made during a lengthy meeting. The recording, which captures an hour-long rant, reportedly took place in a restaurant.

“I barely buy Campbell’s products anymore. Given what I now know about them, they’re not healthy,” he reflected. “I really don’t want to eat bioengineered meat—like chicken made from a 3D printer.”

The vice president in question, Martin Barry, has been described as someone who lacks discretion. Garza stated, “He thinks that because he’s part of a Fortune 500 company, he can do whatever he pleases.”

Garza recorded his conversation with Barry out of concern about Barry’s behavior. The recording reportedly includes Barry saying, “We’re setting up stuff for the crappy poor people. Who’s going to buy our products? I hardly ever buy Campbell’s anymore. It’s not healthy now that I know what’s in it.” He was also heard dismissing Indian employees with comments like, “Fucking Indians don’t know shit.”

Feeling “pure disgust,” Garza also claimed that Barry admitted to using marijuana edibles while at work, which is included in the lawsuit.

After bringing these comments to his superior’s attention in January 2025, Garza was let go a few weeks later. His attorney, Zachary Runyan, remarked on the paradox of Garza’s situation, saying, “He really tried to take a stand against inappropriate comments about colleagues and customers, and for that, he was fired, which is ridiculous.”

Garza expressed shock over the firing, particularly since he had received positive feedback on his work performance. Runyan mentioned that Garza had never faced any disciplinary actions before this incident.

The lawsuit claims that Garza was subjected to a hostile work environment and that he was retaliated against for his complaints. He received no follow-up from human resources and struggled for ten months before securing another job.

A statement from the company addressed the situation, acknowledging that if the contents of the recording are accurate, they are “unacceptable” and do not align with the company’s values. An investigation is currently underway.

The lawsuit not only targets Campbell Soup Company but also identifies Barry and JD Aupperle, a supervisor, as defendants.

Campbell Soup Company has over 144,000 employees and reported annual net sales exceeding $10.3 billion.