In September 2001, a group of about 5,000 Taco Bell franchisees and a handful of taco shell suppliers brought a class-action lawsuit against Aventis, Garst Seed Co.; Gruma Corp., ("the largest producer and distributor of corn flour and tortillas in the United States) and Azteca Milling seeking damages.[39] This suit was voluntarily dismissed in December 2001.[40]: 65