What Is the Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit?
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are high in calories, low in nutrients, and often contain additives or artificial ingredients. In the United States, these foods make up two-thirds of caloric intake in children, according to JAMA Network.
The consumption of UPFs like frozen pizzas, cereals, and soda has been on the rise. However, these foods may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
In December 2024, the first UPF lawsuit was filed against major food corporations like Coca-Cola®, General Mills®, and Kellogg®, alleging they deliberately made their products addictive and marketed them to children.
Every year, U.S. food companies spend around $2 Billion marketing UPFs to kids. Lawsuits liken their tactics to Big Tobacco, claiming companies designed products that trigger cravings and targeted vulnerable populations.
At Sokolove Law, we have over 45 years of experience holding powerful corporations accountable. If you or your child developed a chronic health condition from ultra-processed foods, we may be able to fight for you.
Get the Help You Deserve
Our experienced attorneys may be able to file an ultra-processed foods lawsuit and fight for compensation on your behalf. See if you may qualify.
Health Issues Linked to Ultra-Processed Foods
The overconsumption of ultra-processed foods can lead to serious medical problems. Rising rates of obesity in children, largely driven by UPFs, can also play a significant role in the development of various health conditions.
Some of the health issues linked to ultra-processed foods include:
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Eating UPFs, which are high in sugar and fat, can lead to fat buildup in the liver. This can cause inflammation and liver damage over time. NAFLD is the most common chronic liver disease in children.
- Type 2 diabetes: T2D prevents the body from properly using insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar. UPFs, which are high in refined sugars and unhealthy fats, are a major contributor to insulin resistance.
Every 10% increase in ultra-processed food consumption is linked to a 12% higher risk of diabetes, according to the National Library of Medicine.
The reward system in the brain is often stimulated by eating ultra-processed foods, making it difficult for kids to stop.
Marketing strategies like colorful packaging and cartoon characters also lure children into unhealthy eating habits, contributing to these chronic health issues.
Who Can File a Lawsuit Against Ultra-Processed Food Companies?
Major food companies in the United States may have targeted children, minorities, and low-income communities with their UPF products.
You may be able to file an ultra-processed food lawsuit if you or your child:
- Has had a diet high in ultra-processed foods
- Was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease before the age of 18
There’s only a limited amount of time to seek compensation from a UPF claim due to laws called statutes of limitations. These time limits vary by state, but once the deadline in your case passes, you won’t be able to take legal action again.
Call (800) 995-1212 now to find out if you may be able to file an ultra-processed food lawsuit. It costs nothing to speak with us.
How to File an Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit
Filing an ultra-processed food lawsuit may allow you to hold negligent corporations accountable and seek compensation for medical bills and more.
Our attorneys can handle every step of an ultra-processed food lawsuit on your behalf, including:
- Determining your eligibility to take legal action during a free case review
- Collecting evidence to build a strong case, like your medical records and internal corporate documents
- Filing your UPF claim before any legal deadlines
- Negotiating an ultra-processed food lawsuit settlement with each of the defendants
If a settlement is unable to be reached, we’re prepared to take your case to court and seek compensation from a trial verdict.
Get Help from Our Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit Lawyers
Large food companies have access to vast resources — but our ultra-processed food lawsuit lawyers are here to help you fight back against the harm they’ve caused.
For more than 45 years, we’ve helped families across the country seek justice for preventable injuries or illnesses.
To date, our team has secured over $9.8 Billion for clients nationwide.
There are no upfront costs or hourly fees to work with our ultra-processed food attorneys. We only get paid if you do.
Call (800) 995-1212 now or fill out our contact form to get started with a free, no-obligation case review.
Ultra-Processed Foods Lawsuit Settlement FAQs
Which companies are named in the ultra-processed food lawsuit?
Companies named in the ultra-processed food lawsuit include:
- Coca-Cola® Co.
- Conagra™
- General Mills®
- Kellanova™
- Kraft Heinz®
- Mars®
- Mondelez International®
- Nestle® USA
- PepsiCo®
- Post® Foods
- WK Kellogg®
These companies have been accused of designing ultra-processed foods that are addictive and often marketed toward children, contributing to a rise in chronic health conditions.
Get a free case review now to see if you may be able to file an ultra-processed food lawsuit.
Which foods are ultra-processed?
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are foods that have been highly altered from their original form and typically contain many added ingredients, like sugar, salt, fat, artificial colors, and preservatives.
Examples of ultra-processed foods include:
- Cakes
- Cold cuts
- Fast food
- Frozen meals
- Hot dogs
- Packaged cookies
- Salty snacks
- Soda
While often seen as a more convenient option, ultra-processed foods can contribute to serious health problems — and the companies that made or sold them may be to blame.
How much does it cost to work with an ultra-processed food lawyer?
At Sokolove Law, there are no upfront costs or hourly fees to work with our ultra-processed food lawyers.
We operate on a contingency-fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we secure compensation on your behalf.
Call (800) 995-1212 now to see if our attorneys may be able to help you seek compensation from an ultra-processed food lawsuit.
