Ultra-Processed Foods Litigation Updates

February 4, 2025

• New Study Links Ultra-Processed Foods to Obesity in Children: A recent study published in JAMA has found a link between ultra-processed food consumption and obesity in children, particularly boys. This research could have significant implications for lawsuits against food manufacturers and marketers for their role in childhood obesity.

January 31, 2025

• Study Warns of Dental and Metabolic Risks of Ultra-Processed Foods: A new study suggests that excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) by toddlers may lead to dental problems and underdeveloped jaws. The study also highlights the link between UPFs and metabolic issues, chronic inflammation, and diseases like type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease.

January 24, 2025

• Kraft Heinz Seeks to Move Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit to Federal Court: Kraft Heinz has filed a notice to remove a new ultra-processed food lawsuit from Pennsylvania state court to federal court. The company claims that its true corporate nerve center is in Illinois, despite listing Pittsburgh, PA as its headquarters in SEC filings.

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Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuits: What You Need to Know

Ultra-processed foods have become a staple in many households, marketed as convenient and affordable options for busy families. However, mounting evidence links these products to severe health risks, including Type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and even cancer. Families are now filing lawsuits against major food manufacturers for using addictive ingredients and misleading marketing practices that have jeopardized public health.

See if you qualify for a free processed foods lawsuit case review – Click HERE!

What Are Ultra-Processed Foods?

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrially manufactured products made from substances extracted from whole foods or created synthetically. These items often contain:

• Added Sugars and Refined Carbs: Contributing to obesity and metabolic disorders.
• Unhealthy Fats: Including trans fats and hydrogenated oils.
• Artificial Additives: Such as preservatives, flavor enhancers, and colorings.

Examples of ultra-processed foods include:

• Sugary cereals and snack bars
• Chips and cookies
• Sodas and energy drinks
• Frozen meals and fast food items

These products are designed to be hyper-palatable and long-lasting, but their nutritional value is often poor.

See if you qualify for a free processed foods lawsuit case review – Click HERE!

The Health Risks of Ultra-Processed Foods

The health effects of ultra-processed foods are particularly concerning for children, whose developing bodies are more vulnerable to harmful substances. A growing body of research shows links between UPFs and:

Type 2 Diabetes

UPFs are high in refined carbs and sugars, which spike blood sugar levels and lead to insulin resistance over time. Once rare in children, Type 2 diabetes diagnoses have skyrocketed in the past two decades.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Diets high in UPFs are associated with NAFLD, a condition in which fat builds up in the liver, leading to inflammation and potential liver damage.

Cancer Risks

Carcinogenic by-products from industrial processing, such as acrylamide, have been linked to colorectal and breast cancers.

Obesity and Cardiovascular Issues

Frequent consumption of UPFs is strongly correlated with obesity, high cholesterol, and hypertension, all of which increase the risk of heart disease.

If you or your child has been diagnosed with any of these conditions, you may qualify for compensation – Click HERE to learn more.

How Are Food Companies Being Held Accountable?

Lawsuits against food manufacturers focus on deceptive marketing and the intentional use of harmful ingredients. Key allegations include:

• Fraudulent Advertising: Companies falsely promote UPFs as "healthy" or "natural," misleading consumers.
• Targeting Children: Bright packaging, cartoon mascots, and toy promotions make unhealthy products appealing to kids.
• Neglecting Health Risks: Manufacturers fail to warn consumers about the potential dangers of long-term UPF consumption.

Companies named in recent lawsuits include:

• Kraft Heinz Company
• Mondelēz International
• Coca-Cola and PepsiCo
• General Mills and Nestlé USA
• Kellogg’s and Mars, Inc.

These corporations are accused of prioritizing profits over public health, contributing to the growing prevalence of chronic diseases.

See if you qualify for a free processed foods lawsuit case review – Click HERE!

The Impact on Families

The financial, emotional, and physical toll of chronic health conditions linked to UPFs can be overwhelming. Plaintiffs in these lawsuits are seeking compensation for:

• Medical Costs: Treatment for diabetes, liver disease, or other conditions caused by UPFs.
• Lost Income: Time missed from work due to illness or caregiving responsibilities.
• Pain and Suffering: The emotional and physical distress caused by chronic health problems.
• Punitive Damages: To hold manufacturers accountable for negligent practices.

Why Are These Lawsuits Gaining Momentum?

Recent studies and public awareness campaigns have highlighted the dangers of ultra-processed foods. Key findings include:

• A 2024 study in Nutrients confirmed that children consuming diets high in UPFs are at greater risk of developing metabolic diseases like Type 2 diabetes and NAFLD.
• Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) revealed that over 60% of the calories consumed by American children come from UPFs.
• The World Health Organization has called for stricter regulations on food marketing to protect children from the harmful effects of poor diets.

These lawsuits aim to push food manufacturers to prioritize transparency and consumer safety.

Steps to Take if You’ve Been Affected

If you or your child has been diagnosed with a health condition linked to UPFs, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit. To strengthen your case:

1. Collect Evidence: Medical records, dietary history, and product packaging can help establish a connection between the foods consumed and the health condition.
2. Consult an Attorney: A lawyer experienced in food safety cases can guide you through the legal process and evaluate your claim.
3. Act Quickly: Statutes of limitations vary by state, so it’s important to act promptly.

How Injury Claims Can Help

At Injury Claims, we connect individuals and families with attorneys who specialize in holding food manufacturers accountable for harmful practices. Our legal partners are dedicated to seeking justice for those affected by ultra-processed foods.

Take the first step toward protecting your health and holding corporations accountable – Fill out our form for a FREE case review today!