Ultra-Processed Foods Lawsuit [2026 Update]

November 20th, 2025: Ultra-Processed Food Tied to Widespread Organ Damage and Global Health Risks

A central new Lancet review warns that ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are now linked to harm in every major human organ system, posing what experts call a “seismic threat” to global public health.

UPFs, including soft drinks, snack foods, protein bars, ready meals, and cereals, are displacing fresh food in diets worldwide, especially among children and disadvantaged groups.

In the U.S. and U.K., over half of the average diet now comes from UPFs. For some, it’s as high as 80%.

The review analyzed 104 long-term studies; 92 showed that high UPF intake increases the risk of severe conditions like heart disease, obesity, diabetes, depression, and early death.

Experts emphasize that humans may not be biologically adapted to consume these heavily processed products.

UPFs are often calorie-dense, nutrient-poor, and contain additives like emulsifiers, colorings, and artificial flavors.

They’re also linked to overconsumption and exposure to harmful chemicals.

Researchers say this rise is driven by global food corporations using aggressive marketing, lobbying, and tactics that obstruct regulation and public health policy.

The authors call for urgent policy action, including:

• Front-of-package warning labels for UPF ingredients.
• Restrictions on marketing to children
• Bans on UPFs in schools and hospitals
• Limits on shelf space in supermarkets

They also point to Brazil’s national school food program as a model: it aims to eliminate most UPFs and will require that 90% of the food served be fresh or minimally processed by 2026.

Critics argue that the definition of UPF needs refinement, and more clinical studies are required.

But researchers say the existing evidence justifies immediate intervention.

November 10th, 2025: Federal Appeals Court Overturns USDA GMO Labeling Loophole

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has ruled that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) regulations allowing highly refined foods, such as sugars and oils, to bypass GMO labeling requirements were unlawful.

The decision, issued October 31, 2025, stems from a lawsuit filed by grocery retailers and consumer advocacy groups, including Natural Grocers and the Center for Food Safety, challenging the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) rules under the Administrative Procedure Act.

The court found that the USDA’s “detectability” standard excluding ingredients if modified genetic material was undetectable misinterpreted testing limitations and could leave consumers unaware of GMO content in up to 70% of processed foods.

The court also invalidated rules permitting QR codes or text messages as the sole method of disclosure, citing accessibility concerns.

The ruling upheld the use of the term “bioengineered” instead of “GMO,” finding it consistent with statutory language.

The case has been remanded to the district court for further consideration by the AMS.

The court ordered a prospective vacatur of the challenged regulations, giving manufacturers time to adjust.

Industry groups defended the rules, but the decision increased pressure on the USDA to revise labeling standards.

The ruling may raise compliance costs for food manufacturers, particularly small businesses, while providing consumers with clearer, on-package disclosure of genetically engineered ingredients.

November 5th, 2025: Health Advocates Urge FDA to “Reboot” Approach to Ultra-Processed Foods Amid Industry Pushback

A group of health advocates, scientists, and farmers is calling on the FDA to “reboot” its method for defining and regulating ultra-processed foods.

They advocate for a public health–focused strategy that accounts for both nutrient loss and newly introduced health risks during processing.

In a recent letter to the FDA, the Heartland Health Research Alliance and the Swette Center, joined by former National Academy of Sciences agriculture board director Charles Benbrook and others, suggested a framework for classifying foods based on the percentage of original nutrients retained after processing.

Foods containing less than 75% of their original nutrients would be considered “ultra-processed.”

The group also urged the FDA to consider increased health risks like pesticide residues and chemical contaminants.

The FDA and USDA are currently collecting public input as part of the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, which aims to establish a federal definition of ultra-processed foods.

Advocates caution, however, that corporate influence may weaken the effort’s effectiveness.

The Center for Science in the Public Interest echoed these concerns, advocating for clear labeling requirements, including cancer warnings on processed meats and front-of-package nutrition standards.

Food industry groups, including the National Pork Producers Council and the International Dairy Foods Association, oppose the proposal, arguing that “ultra-processed” remains a vague and unreliable measure that could misclassify safe, nutrient-dense foods.

Despite this pushback, advocates say the FDA’s action could mark a turning point after earlier MAHA Commission reversals that softened positions on pesticides and chemical risks.

Benbrook described the effort as “the start of a reboot in the food community,” signaling renewed pressure on federal agencies to confront the role of ultra-processed foods in chronic disease and public health decline.

October 6th, 2025: Gen X Women Show Highest Rates of Ultra-Processed Food Addiction, Study Finds

A new Addiction study from the University of Michigan shows that more than one in five Gen X women meet the criteria for ultra-processed food (UPF) addiction, representing the highest rates among older adults.

Using data from over 2,000 respondents aged 50 to 80, researchers found that 21% of women and 10% of men in their 50s and 60s qualified for UPF addiction, compared to 12% of women and 4% of men aged 65 to 80.

The study also connected UPF addiction to negative physical and mental health, obesity, and social isolation.

Overweight adults were up to 19 times more likely to meet the criteria, and those reporting fair to poor mental health or frequent feelings of isolation were up to four times more likely.

Researchers warn that younger generations, who now consume higher proportions of ultra-processed foods, may experience even greater addiction rates as they grow older.

September 30th, 2025: PepsiCo & Frito-Lay Face Class Action Over Allegedly Misleading ‘No Artificial Flavors’ Labels

PepsiCo and Frito-Lay are the latest food giants to be sued over claims tied to ultraprocessed food labeling.

A proposed class action filed in New York federal court alleges the companies falsely label their popular Poppables snacks as containing “no artificial flavors,” despite the inclusion of synthetically produced citric acid, a substance commonly derived from genetically modified black mold (Aspergillus niger).

The plaintiff argues that consumers were misled into paying premium prices for snacks they believed were free from synthetic ingredients.

The complaint contends that citric acid, although naturally occurring in fruits, is industrially manufactured for commercial use and used to alter flavor, qualifying it as an artificial flavor under consumer protection laws.

The plaintiff alleges that labeling Poppables as free from artificial flavors is not only misleading but also unlawful under New York’s consumer protection statutes.

The lawsuit further raises health concerns about mold-based citric acid, citing potential allergic reactions and respiratory issues for sensitive individuals.

The case joins a growing wave of litigation targeting deceptive “natural” or “clean label” food marketing.

Similar lawsuits have recently been filed against brands including Izze, Late July Snacks, Target’s Good & Gather, Conagra, and Coca-Cola, all involving claims of synthetic citric acid use despite “no preservatives” or “natural ingredients” branding.

Palmeri seeks statutory damages, restitution, and class certification for nationwide and New York-specific consumer classes.

The suit reinforces growing scrutiny over how food manufacturers market ultraprocessed products, especially when targeting health-conscious consumers.

September 26, 2025:Ultra-Processed Food Study Raises Potential MS Litigation Risks

A new Neurology Advisor report finds that high consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is associated with increased multiple sclerosis (MS) disease activity over several years.

While the study is observational, it adds to the increasing number of studies linking ultra-processed foods to adverse health effects.

Patients with higher UPF intake experienced more frequent relapses (~30% higher risk over 5 years), more new MRI lesions, and greater lesion volume increases.

The association held after adjusting for age, sex, baseline disease burden, BMI, vitamin D levels, treatment assignment, and smoking status.

The authors suggest that UPFs may act as a chronic inflammatory accelerator, worsening disease activity rather than causing MS itself.

The researchers conclude that targeted dietary strategies reducing UPF intake could be a helpful adjunct to standard MS therapies.

September 25, 2025: Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuits Gain Traction as New Study Links Diet to Cardiovascular Inflammation

A new peer-reviewed study published in The American Journal of Medicine on September 3, 2025, has strengthened the scientific basis for ongoing ultra-processed food lawsuits by linking heavy consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) to elevated inflammation markers associated with cardiovascular disease.

Researchers found that adults who consumed the highest amounts of UPFs had an 11% greater likelihood of elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels, a key indicator of systemic inflammation and a strong predictor of cardiovascular risk.

Ultra-processed foods include manufactured products such as sugary drinks, packaged snacks, instant noodles, and processed meats, which are formulated with additives to enhance taste, shelf life, and texture but provide little nutritional value.

The study analyzed dietary data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and categorized participants by the percentage of daily calories from UPFs.

Adults consuming 60% to 79% of their calories from UPFs had the highest risk, while those in the moderate group (40% to 59%) had a 14% increased likelihood of elevated inflammation markers. Adults aged 50 to 59 experienced a 26% higher risk, and individuals with obesity faced an 80% higher risk.

The findings build on mounting evidence that links ultra-processed food consumption to chronic health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), high blood pressure, and childhood metabolic disorders.

Public health researchers have also identified aggressive marketing practices targeting youth and low-income communities, contributing to disproportionate health impacts.

September 24, 2025: California Bill Defines Ultra-Processed Foods, Targets School Meal Restrictions by 2035

On September 16, 2025, the California Legislature passed Assembly Bill 1264, which for the first time defines “ultra-processed foods” (UPFs) in law and establishes a timeline for removing certain UPFs from school meal programs.

The measure, now on Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk, would require the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment to identify categories of “particularly harmful” UPFs by July 2026, with a full phaseout from schools by 2035.

The bill defines UPFs as foods containing specified functional ingredients, such as emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, stabilizers, and nonnutritive sweeteners, combined with either high levels of saturated fat, sodium, or added sugars, or the presence of covered sweeteners like sucralose, maltitol, or steviol glycosides.

It excludes items such as milk, infant formula, minimally processed foods, natural color additives, and USDA commodity foods.

If enacted, AB 1264 will set California apart with one of the nation’s most detailed frameworks for UPF regulation, arriving as federal agencies weigh their own definitions and standards.

The law could influence national food policy and push manufacturers to prepare for long-term restrictions on processed ingredients in school nutrition programs.

September 8, 2025: Ultra-Processed Foods Lawsuits: New Study Links Diet to Male Reproductive Health Risks

A study published in Cell Metabolism on August 28, 2025, has found that ultra-processed foods (UPFs) negatively affect male reproductive and metabolic health.

Researchers reported that men who consumed diets high in UPFs had lower testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels, both of which are critical for sperm production. 

The findings also showed increased exposure to phthalate cxMINP, a chemical commonly used in plastics and often detected in processed foods.

The study involved 43 men aged 20 to 35, each of whom spent three weeks on unprocessed and ultra-processed diets matched for calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fats.

Participants on the ultra-processed diet gained approximately one kilogram more fat mass compared to the unprocessed diet group.

Researchers also concluded that the harmful effects were linked to the processed nature of the foods, regardless of caloric intake.

August 25, 2025: Ultra-Processed Foods Lawsuit Against Kraft, Coca-Cola, and Mondelez Dismissed

Kraft Heinz, Mondelez, Coca-Cola, and other major food manufacturers secured dismissal of a lawsuit alleging they deliberately designed ultra-processed foods to be addictive and harmful to children.

U.S. District Judge Mia Perez in Philadelphia ruled that the plaintiff, a 19-year-old who developed Type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, failed to link his health conditions to specific products.

The lawsuit, filed in Pennsylvania, was considered a test case because it sought to apply strategies used against the tobacco industry to food litigation.

They claimed that companies intentionally engineered products such as packaged snacks, cookies, and soft drinks to create dependency despite known health risks.

The complaint referenced more than 100 brands but did not identify any single food as the direct cause of illness, which the court found insufficient.

The attorneys for the plaintiff argued that scientific evidence supports the addictive qualities of ultra-processed foods and stated they are evaluating next steps.

The lawsuit also alleged that companies followed a “cigarette playbook,” referencing tobacco giants Philip Morris and R.J. Reynolds, which once owned Kraft Heinz and Mondelez before corporate restructuring.

A federal commission led by the U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. reported in May 2024 that processed foods, environmental stressors, and chemical exposure may contribute to rising chronic illness among American children.

August 22, 2025: Study Links Ultra-Processed Foods to Increased Parkinson’s Disease Risk

A recent study reported by Telegraph Herald has identified a strong connection between ultra-processed food consumption and an elevated risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Researchers tracked more than 1,000 individuals with early symptoms of PD over a 10-year period.

Findings indicate that each additional daily serving of ultra-processed foods increased the risk of developing PD-related signs by 19%, full Parkinson’s disease by 4%, and death from Parkinson’s-specific causes by 10%.

The study also highlighted other known risk factors, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hepatitis C, H. pylori infection, COVID-19, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Parkinson’s disease currently affects approximately 1 million Americans, with 90,000 new cases diagnosed each year.

These findings may have implications for ongoing research and litigation related to food safety and the potential long-term health risks associated with ultra-processed food consumption.

August 21, 2025: Studies Tie Ultra-Processed Foods to Inflammation, Chronic Disease, and Early Deaths

New research is bolstering the scientific basis for lawsuits against ultra-processed foods (UPFs).

A McMaster University study of over 6,000 Canadian adults found that high UPF consumption is strongly associated with inflammation, high blood pressure, insulin resistance, and other metabolic issues.

Even after accounting for socioeconomic and lifestyle factors, the associations remained, indicating that additives, preparation methods, and packaging might cause harmful biological responses.

At the same time, a global meta-analysis of over 8 million adults confirmed a dose-dependent relationship: every 100 g/day increase in UPFs raised the risk of hypertension by 14.5%, digestive disease by 19.5%, and all-cause mortality by 2.6%.

A multinational mortality model estimated that 124,000 premature U.S. deaths in 2018 alone could be linked to UPFs.

These findings probably influence current food lawsuits, as plaintiffs seek to hold manufacturers responsible for marketing and distributing products associated with systemic inflammation, chronic illness, and early death.

While debates continue over how UPFs are defined, the consistency of results across large-scale studies strengthens claims that these products pose measurable public health risks.

August 13, 2025: Study Links Ultra-Processed Foods to Increased Lung Cancer Risk

A new study published in the journal Thorax found that high consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) may be linked to a significantly increased risk of lung cancer.

Researchers analyzed dietary and health data from 101,732 U.S. adults, ages 55 to 74, followed for an average of 12.2 years.

Participants in the highest quartile of UPF consumption (averaging about six servings per day) had a 41% higher risk of developing lung cancer compared to those in the lowest quartile, who consumed about half a serving daily.

The increased risk was 37% for non-small cell lung cancer and 44% for small cell lung cancer.

The association persisted after adjusting for smoking status, diet quality, age, sex, and other lifestyle factors.

Researchers cautioned that the study was observational and cannot prove causation.

Limitations include reliance on baseline dietary data and lack of detailed smoking intensity measures.

However, the findings add to prior evidence linking UPFs to multiple health risks, including various cancers.

August 11, 2025: Ultra-Processed Foods Make Up 55% of U.S. Calorie Intake, Highest Among Youth

A new CDC report shows that ultra-processed foods account for 55% of total calories consumed in the U.S., based on data from August 2021 to August 2023.

Youth aged 1–18 had the highest intake at 61.9%, compared to 53% for adults.

Low-income adults eat more ultra-processed foods than higher-income adults, but there are no significant differences between men and women.

The report identifies sandwiches and burgers, sweet baked goods, savory snacks, and sweetened beverages as major sources for both youth and adults, with pizza also ranking high among youth and breads, rolls, and tortillas among adults.

Health officials have linked heavy consumption of ultra-processed foods to higher risks of cardiovascular disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other serious health conditions, strengthening calls from federal agencies to reduce intake.

August 4, 2025: Study Strengthens Link Between Ultra-Processed Foods and Chronic Disease Risks

A new study published in Nature Medicine strengthens the link between ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and chronic health problems, even at moderate consumption levels.

Researchers at the University of Washington’s Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation found that UPFs such as processed meats and sugar-sweetened beverages are associated with significant increases in the risk of type 2 diabetes, colorectal cancer, and ischemic heart disease.

Using a burden of proof meta-regression method, the researchers found that processed meats were associated with an 11% increased risk of type 2 diabetes and a 7% increased risk of colorectal cancer.

Sugar-sweetened drinks raise the risk of diabetes by 8% and heart disease by 2%.

Even small amounts of trans fats are linked to at least a 3% higher risk of heart disease.

The findings support a growing body of research linking UPF consumption to serious health risks, including potential connections to Parkinson’s disease, childhood type 1 diabetes, and behavioral patterns that resemble addiction.

With growing evidence that food companies have long advertised these products (especially to kids) despite known health risks, the study could have important implications for ongoing ultra-processed food lawsuits.

July 28, 2025: FDA Probes Ultra-Processed Food Risks as Lawsuits Target Major Food Manufacturers

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched an investigation into the health effects of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), following growing concerns about their potential role in chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

The agency’s efforts include a formal Request for Information (RFI) to help define UPFs and guide potential regulatory actions.

This regulatory focus coincides with an increasing number of lawsuits filed against major food manufacturers.

In one notable case filed in December 2024, a California teenager alleged that regular consumption of ultra-processed foods during adolescence, heavily marketed by companies like Nestlé, Kellogg’s, PepsiCo, and General Mills, led to the early onset of serious health conditions.

The complaint claims the products were sold without adequate warnings about the associated long-term health risks.

Plaintiffs in similar suits argue that ultra-processed foods are deliberately engineered to be addictive and are disproportionately marketed to children, despite known links to chronic disease.

Lawsuits are expected to expand as further evidence emerges and government agencies assess the public health impact of food processing practices.

Federal health officials have publicly acknowledged the mounting scientific evidence linking UPFs to adverse health outcomes.

As part of the broader “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, the Department of Health and Human Services, FDA, and USDA are collaborating to establish definitions and regulatory guidelines for processed food products.

The litigation and federal scrutiny come amid a wave of recent studies highlighting dose-dependent relationships between UPF consumption and elevated risk of early mortality and chronic illness.

July 21, 2025: California Lawmakers Advance Landmark Bill to Phase Out Ultra-Processed Foods in Schools

California legislators are moving forward with Assembly Bill 1264 (AB 1264), a pioneering law aimed at phasing out ultra-processed foods (UPFs) from public school meals by 2032.

The bill, introduced by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, would require the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) to identify UPFs linked to serious health risks including cancer, heart disease, and obesity.

Under AB 1264, schools must begin phasing out harmful UPFs by January 1, 2028, with a full ban on their sale and service in schools by January 1, 2032.

The legislation also mandates annual reporting by food vendors on UPF sales to schools.

The bill responds to growing scientific evidence linking UPFs—foods high in added sugars, fats, and salt but low in nutrients—to chronic health conditions and impaired student performance.

It represents the first state law in the U.S. to legally define and regulate UPFs in school settings.

Similar legislative efforts are underway in other states, while several countries internationally have adopted school nutrition standards focusing on minimally processed and sustainable foods.

If enacted, AB 1264 would position California as a national leader in public health policy concerning school nutrition, potentially influencing future regulations at broader levels.

July 18, 2025: New Evidence Links Ultra-Processed Foods to Obesity and Chronic Disease Risks

Recent studies have strengthened the link between consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and increased risks of obesity, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and mental health issues.

UPFs, defined as industrially manufactured foods high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, sodium, and artificial additives, have been shown to contribute to overeating and nutrient deficiencies.

Health experts warn that the addictive nature of UPFs encourages excessive calorie intake, raising the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer.

Emerging data also indicate a potential association between UPF-heavy diets and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Given these findings, there is a growing call for increased scrutiny of the food industry’s role in promoting ultra-processed products and for regulatory measures to address public health impacts.

At TorHoerman Law, we continue to monitor litigation developments involving food manufacturers and distributors linked to health risks from ultra-processed food consumption.

July 15, 2025: Study Finds Link Between Ultra-Processed Foods and Depression, Not Obesity

A recent epidemiological study, published in Cureus, analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2005 and 2018, finding a significant association between the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and increased depressive symptoms in U.S. adults.

The study did not find a statistically significant independent link between UPF intake and obesity after adjusting for demographic and lifestyle variables.

Researchers examined data from over 18,000 individuals and found that participants with the highest UPF consumption were more likely to experience symptoms of depression, even when controlling for factors such as age, gender, income level, physical activity, and BMI.

This supports previous findings that suggest a link between diet quality and mental health.

In contrast, while high UPF intake was associated with higher body weight in unadjusted models, the association did not hold after adjustments, indicating that the relationship between UPFs and obesity may be more complex and influenced by multiple confounders.

The study highlights growing public health concerns regarding the widespread consumption of UPFs and their potential effects on mental well-being.

July 9th, 2025: Ultra-Processed Foods Linked  to a Higher Risk of Early Death

A large-scale study published in Nature Medicine has found that diets high in ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are associated with an increased risk of early death up to 10% higher compared to those with lower UPF intake.

Researchers tracked over 540,000 American adults between the ages of 50 and 71 for nearly 30 years.

The study revealed that those who consumed the most UPFs had significantly higher risks of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and colorectal cancer.

Processed meats were particularly harmful, raising type 2 diabetes risk by 11% and colorectal cancer by 7%.

Sugar-sweetened beverages were linked to an 8% increase in diabetes risk.

UPFs, which include items like sodas, hot dogs, and packaged snacks, often contain additives, artificial colors, and preservatives.

Experts believe these components may contribute to inflammation and chronic disease, ultimately shortening lifespan.

July 8, 2025: Screen Time and Food Marketing Drive Childhood Obesity—Could Preventive Measures Avert Future Legal Action?

Emerging research continues to highlight multiple contributing factors to childhood and adolescent obesity, with high screen time (even as little as 1–2 hours per day) identified as a key risk factor.

Screen exposure has been tied to increased sedentary behavior, shorter sleep duration, distracted eating, and—critically—greater exposure to food advertising.

Studies show that children often consume more high-calorie, low-nutrient foods and sugar-sweetened beverages during or shortly after viewing these ads.

In contrast, evidence points to simple, actionable behaviors that can significantly reduce obesity risk.

Daily breakfast consumption and engaging in at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day are among the most effective protective factors.

These habits help regulate metabolism, improve energy balance, and reduce reliance on unhealthy snack foods.

Despite these known risks and prevention strategies, food and beverage companies continue to target children with aggressive marketing of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and sugary drinks.

Public health experts are calling for stronger oversight of these practices and urging policy reform to limit such marketing, especially on digital platforms accessed by minors.

As awareness grows, so does scrutiny of corporate responsibility and government regulation. Whether these factors could form the basis for future litigation remains an open question, but the legal landscape may shift as public and scientific pressure builds.

June 30th, 2025: New Evidence Links Ultra-Processed Foods to Major Health Risks, Supporting Regulatory and Legal Scrutiny

A commentary published June 30, 2025, in Nature Medicine reinforces the growing body of scientific evidence linking ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption to significant health risks, including type 2 diabetes, colorectal cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

The article supports recent findings from a companion study by Haile et al., which applied a “Burden of Proof” methodology to assess dietary risk factors.

The commentary emphasizes the need for rigorous, standardized tools to evaluate the health impact of UPFs.

It advocates for a more consistent global framework to inform dietary guidelines and public health policies.

Authors cite high confidence in the harmful effects of diets rich in processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages, and foods containing trans fats.

This latest update may carry implications for food labeling regulations, marketing practices, and future litigation against manufacturers of UPFs.

Public health authorities are expected to incorporate the findings into evolving nutritional policies aimed at reducing preventable disease.

The study and commentary come amid increasing legal and regulatory scrutiny of the food industry’s role in promoting products with known health risks.

June 27th, 2025: Prenatal Diet Study to Examine Link Between Ultra-Processed Foods and Heavy Metal Exposure

A newly published study outlines a planned clinical trial examining whether prenatal consumption of ultra-processed foods increases maternal and fetal exposure to toxic heavy metals such as lead and mercury, potentially contributing to neurodevelopmental disorders including autism and ADHD.

Researchers at the Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, led by Dr. Renee Dufault, developed a protocol for a randomized controlled trial involving pregnant women.

Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving education on reducing ultra-processed food intake and increasing zinc consumption, and a control group without intervention.

The trial will monitor levels of heavy metals, zinc, and metallothionein-1 (MT-1)—a protein critical for detoxifying metals—in both groups.

The hypothesis is based on prior findings that ultra-processed foods often lack sufficient zinc, which is necessary for MT-1 function.

Reduced MT-1 activity may impair the body’s ability to eliminate heavy metals, thereby increasing fetal exposure.

Previous investigations, including federal reports, have confirmed the presence of lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury in baby food products.

If the trial confirms the link between prenatal diet and heavy metal toxicity, it could inform future dietary recommendations and support potential claims related to toxic exposure and product liability involving food manufacturers.

June 24th, 2025: Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to 14% of Preventable Premature Deaths in U.S., Study Finds

A new international study published in The Lancet suggests that consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) may be responsible for more than 14% of all preventable premature deaths among U.S. adults aged 30 to 69.

The research estimates that approximately 124,000 premature deaths in 2019 could be attributed to diets high in UPFs.

Researchers analyzed dietary data and mortality rates across eight countries.

They found that the United States and the United Kingdom had the highest proportions of UPF consumption, accounting for around 55% to 58% of daily caloric intake.

The study employed a comparative risk assessment model to project the impact of reducing UPF consumption on national mortality rates.

Previous studies have linked these products to increased risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and depression.

The study found that for every 10% increase in calories from UPFs, the risk of all-cause mortality rose by approximately 3%.

While the research does not establish direct causation, authors emphasized the need for policy interventions, such as food labeling reforms and public awareness campaigns, to reduce UPF intake at the population level.

Lawyers are monitoring whether mounting scientific evidence may form the basis for litigation related to food labeling, deceptive marketing, or failure to provide adequate warnings.

June 16th, 2025: Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Brain Changes, Overeating

A recent international study in Metabolic Health and Disease links high intake of ultra-processed foods to structural alterations in brain regions that control eating behavior.

Researchers at the University of Helsinki’s O’BRAIN Lab, in collaboration with the Montreal Neurological Institute, examined data from approximately 30,000 middle-aged adults in the UK Biobank.

The research revealed alterations in the hypothalamus, amygdala, and right nucleus accumbens—regions associated with hunger, reward, and emotions—that may foster a cycle of overeating.

Crucially, the researchers note that these effects cannot be exclusively linked to obesity or inflammation.

Emulsifiers and other ingredients in ultra-processed foods might independently influence brain structure.

These findings lend support to the development of neurological theories concerning food-related litigation, particularly in instances of misleading marketing of processed foods or failure to inform about health risks.

While the study does not prove causation, it suggests possible mechanisms linking ultra-processed foods to chronic diseases and behavioral dysregulation.

June 13th, 2025: FDA Plans First-Ever Federal Definition of Ultra-Processed Food

The FDA is set to issue the first federal definition of “ultra-processed food,” a step that could significantly reshape how the government classifies and regulates a wide range of products, including cereals, snacks, packaged meals, and beverages.

The agency will hold a public comment period before finalizing the definition, according to The New York Times.

FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary stated that the goal is not to restrict ultra-processed foods but to inform consumers and encourage healthier competition.

The new classification could influence products served in federally regulated settings, such as school cafeterias, prisons, and VA hospitals, and also affect SNAP eligibility and future food labeling standards.

Marketing claims such as “non-ultra-processed” may emerge, similar to existing labels like “organic” and “sugar-free.”

The move comes as evidence mounts that links ultra-processed foods to chronic diseases, including Type 2 diabetes and cancer.

It follows legislative actions in states such as West Virginia and Arizona that target food additives.

Food companies are anticipated to resist, cautioning that an overly broad definition could stigmatize foods that aren’t inherently harmful, while a too narrow scope might overlook key risks.

June 12th, 2025: California Advances Bill to Ban Ultraprocessed Foods in Schools by 2035

On June 3, California lawmakers passed AB 1264, a groundbreaking bill that would prohibit the sale of excessively harmful ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) in public school meals by 2035.

The bill now goes to the state Senate and awaits possible approval from Governor Gavin Newsom.

If enacted, AB 1264 would require California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, in collaboration with University of California experts, to finalize a science-based definition of “particularly harmful” UPFs by July 2026.

Criteria include the presence of prohibited or flagged additives, ingredients associated with chronic illnesses, excessive amounts of sugar, salt, or fat, and characteristics that encourage food addiction.

The bill indicates increasing legislative momentum in California regarding school food safety.

It follows the state’s 2024 ban on synthetic food dyes in school meals and the recent FDA initiatives to replace harmful artificial dyes with natural alternatives.

With over 1 billion meals served annually in California public schools, AB 1264 could significantly impact what students eat, especially those in disadvantaged communities that rely heavily on school nutrition programs.

June 9th, 2025: WISEcode Launches New Processed Food Classification System

Researchers at WISEcode have developed a new classification system for processed foods, offering a more detailed alternative to the widely used Nova system.

Unlike Nova’s broad grouping that categorizes diverse items like candy bars and sugar-free whole-grain cereals under the same “ultra-processed” label, WISEcode’s model assesses products based on ingredient-specific health risks, added sugar content, and known health concerns.

The system categorizes food processing into five levels: minimal, light, moderate, ultra, and super-ultra.

When applied to over 650,000 foods and 5,500 ingredients, it has provided greater differentiation among ultra-processed foods than Nova, which researchers believe could improve public understanding of nutritional risk.

Richard Black, PhD, WISEcode’s chief scientific officer and adjunct professor at Tufts University, emphasized the system’s adaptability to new research and its potential applications in public health, retail, and litigation.

The classification tool is scheduled to be presented at NUTRITION 2025, the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition.

June 3rd, 2025: Ultraprocessed Foods Linked to 124,000 Premature Deaths in U.S., Study Finds

A new global study estimates that nearly 124,000 premature deaths in the U.S. in 2018 were linked to diets high in ultraprocessed foods (UPFs), which account for about 58% of American food consumption, more than any other country analyzed.

Researchers found that a 10% increase in UPF intake was associated with a 3% rise in all-cause mortality.

The findings, led by Eduardo Nilson, pooled dietary data from eight countries and identified the U.S. as having the highest concentration of UPFs, and correspondingly, the highest risk of early death.

The study highlights the health risks associated with industrial food additives and excessive processing, extending beyond the inclusion of sodium, sugar, and fats.

Previous research has connected UPFs to 32 health conditions, including cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Nilson emphasized the urgent need for global policies to curb the consumption of ultra-processed foods, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where intake continues to rise.

May 29th, 2025: Study Suggests Microplastics in Ultra-Processed Foods May Influence Mental Health Risks

A new viewpoint article in Brain Medicine suggests that microplastics introduced during the packaging and processing of ultra-processed foods may contribute to mental health risks.

The authors propose that these contaminants, often present in items like instant noodles and packaged snacks, could worsen depression, anxiety, and sleep problems already linked to ultra-processed food consumption.

The article notes a 22% increased risk of depression and a 48% increased risk of anxiety in individuals who consume a higher amount of ultra-processed foods.

The presence of microplastics and bisphenol A, released during the processing or heating of plastic containers, is emphasized as a potential mechanism.

These substances are recognized for causing oxidative stress and inflammation, with animal studies indicating potential neurotoxic effects.

While direct human evidence remains limited, emerging data indicate that microplastics are present in the human brain, with higher levels observed in individuals with dementia.

May 27, 2025: Ultra-Processed Foods Linked Independently to Increased Risk of Stroke and Cognitive Decline, Study Finds

A study in Neurology links greater ultra-processed food intake to higher risks of stroke and cognitive impairment, even after controlling for healthy diets like Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND.

The findings are derived from the long-term REGARDS study, which encompasses data from more than 30,000 U.S. adults.

Researchers found that for every 10% increase in the amount of ultra-processed foods by weight in a person’s diet, there is a 16% higher risk of cognitive impairment and an 8% higher risk of stroke.

The relationship persisted even after adjusting for demographic, lifestyle, and clinical variables.

The consumption of unprocessed or minimally processed foods is associated with a reduced risk.

The data suggest that the degree of food processing, not just nutritional content, could be independently harmful, potentially influencing arguments about product safety, warning labels, and corporate responsibility.

May 22nd, 2025: Federal Report Links Ultra-Processed Foods to an Increase in Childhood Chronic Illnesses

A federal report from the U.S. Department of Health links ultra-processed foods to an increase in chronic childhood diseases, underscoring the significance of diet in obesity, diabetes, autism, and mental health issues.

The report, led by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., states that nearly 70% of children’s caloric intake comes from ultra-processed products, such as sodas, snacks, and artificially enhanced packaged foods.

According to the data, over 40% of American youth, around 78 million, have received a diagnosis of at least one chronic illness.

The findings come amid a rising tide of litigation targeting food manufacturers, who are accused of knowingly marketing ultra-processed foods to children despite the increasing health risks associated with them.

Attorneys contend that industry promotion practices have disregarded longstanding scientific evidence connecting these foods to obesity, cardiovascular issues, sleep disorders, and type 2 diabetes.

The commission intends to issue a strategic response within 82 days.

May 19th, 2025: Study Ties Ultra-Processed Foods to Early Signs of Parkinson’s

An international study published in Neurology links high consumption of ultra-processed foods to a significantly higher likelihood of developing early signs of Parkinson’s disease.

Researchers followed nearly 43,000 people over 26 years and saw that those eating 11 or more servings of ultra-processed foods a day were 2.5 times more likely to report early symptoms.

These symptoms included body pain, impaired smell, and daytime sleepiness.

The study looked at a wide range of ultra-processed foods, including sauces, spreads, condiments, sugar-sweetened beverages, savory and sweet packaged snacks, dairy-based desserts, and processed animal-based products.

The analysis drew on data from the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, adjusting for factors like age, BMI, smoking, alcohol intake, and physical activity.

While the link did not extend to constipation, all other early symptoms showed a strong association with higher intake levels.

Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit Faces Key Legal Test

The ultra-processed food litigation has reached a critical stage following the defendants’ filing an omnibus motion to dismiss the plaintiff’s complaint.

This filing challenges the legal sufficiency of the claims and could determine whether the case proceeds or faces significant delays.

Central to the Defendants’ motion, the Plaintiff did not specify which ultra-processed foods were consumed and when.

The Defendants argue that this absence of detail impedes their ability to provide an adequate defense.

Additionally, the Defendants question the scientific foundation of the Plaintiff’s claims and dispute the validity of the term “ultra-processed food,” proposing that it lacks an established legal or scientific definition.

In response to the motion, the parties have agreed to extend the briefing schedule.

The plaintiff’s response is due by the end of May, while the defendant’s reply is expected by July 14.

Given the current timeline, the court will likely hold oral arguments during the summer and issue an opinion in early fall.

If the court grants the motion, the plaintiff must receive 30 to 45 days to amend the complaint.

This amended complaint will likely be filed in October, followed by another motion to dismiss from the defendants.

A ruling on that subsequent motion is anticipated by early 2026.

Until then, the future of this litigation remains uncertain.

In the coming year, the court’s rulings will offer crucial insight into the legal viability of the Plaintiff’s claims and whether this case can progress to discovery and possibly to trial.

If your child has suffered from Type II diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal issues, non-alcloholic fatty liver disease, or other chronic health issues, call Torhoerman Law today.

Contact the experienced Ultra Processed Foods Lawyers from TorHoerman Law today for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to instantly find out if you qualify for the Ultra Processed Foods Lawsuit.

The Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit is ongoing. 

Major food manufacturers are seeking to dismiss one of the first lawsuits to link ultra-processed foods (UPFs) to chronic health problems in children, following a complaint filed by a Pennsylvania man who developed type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease during his teenage years.

The plaintiff filed the case in late 2024, naming companies like Kraft Heinz, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Nestlé, and others.

The plaintiff alleges the food industry knowingly marketed addictive, nutritionally deficient UPFs to children while downplaying the serious health risks.

The lawsuit claims that years of consuming products like sweetened cereals, processed snacks, and sodas directly contributed to Martinez’s early-onset health issues.

UPFs typically contain five or more industrial ingredients, including artificial flavors and preservatives.

Public health research continues to spotlight their link to diabetes, depression, and cardiovascular disease.

The plaintiff’s case follows several 2024 studies that emphasized how UPF consumption may increase the risk of long-term illness in children.

On March 31, the manufacturers filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing it lacks specificity and legal clarity.

The companies contend the plaintiff failed to identify exact products, timelines, or quantities consumed, and argue some ingredients are preempted by federal regulations.

The plaintiff’s legal team has until May 30 to respond.

A ruling on this motion may set a precedent for future junk food lawsuits, as attorneys nationwide are evaluating potential claims on behalf of children diagnosed with diabetes or fatty liver disease after consuming UPFs.

If your child has suffered from Type II diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal issues, non-alcloholic fatty liver disease, or other chronic health issues, call Torhoerman Law today.

Contact the experienced Ultra Processed Foods Lawyers from TorHoerman Law today for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to instantly find out if you qualify for the Ultra Processed Foods Lawsuit.

Recent findings have linked ultra-processed foods (UPFs) to a staggering 40% of heart disease and stroke cases, leading to growing concerns over the food industry’s role in contributing to cardiovascular disease.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada’s new report reveals that UPFs account for 43.3% of the total daily caloric intake of Canadians, significantly impacting public health by being directly responsible for 38% of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and strokes.

Ultra-processed foods, which include items like sugary cereals, frozen meals, chips, and sodas, are heavily refined and contain artificial additives designed to enhance taste and prolong shelf life.

Despite their widespread availability and aggressive marketing, these products offer little nutritional value and are linked to increased health risks such as obesity, diabetes, fatty liver disease, and heart disease.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation’s study shows that these foods contribute to over 96,000 new CVD cases, more than 17,000 deaths, and almost 400,000 years of lost life or disability annually. 

The report also highlights the preventable nature of these outcomes, noting that reducing UPF consumption could prevent over 45,000 cases of heart disease and 8,300 deaths each year in Canada.

If your child has suffered from Type II diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal issues, non-alcloholic fatty liver disease, or other chronic health issues, call Torhoerman Law today.

Contact the experienced Ultra Processed Foods Lawyers from TorHoerman Law today for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to instantly find out if you qualify for the Ultra Processed Foods Lawsuit.

Senate Bill 93, also known as the Illinois Food Safety Act, aims to ban harmful additives such as brominated vegetable oil (BVO), potassium bromate, propylparaben, and red dye No. 3 from food products sold and manufactured in Illinois.

The bill, which passed the Senate Public Health Committee, reflects growing concerns over the health risks posed by these chemicals, including cancer risks and endocrine disruption.

The legislation would affect a wide range of food products, particularly candy, soda, and baked goods.

Proponents argue it would improve public health, while opponents warn about potential economic disruptions.

The bill now advances to the full Illinois Senate for consideration.

If your child has suffered from Type II diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal issues, non-alcloholic fatty liver disease, or other chronic health issues, call Torhoerman Law today.

Contact the experienced Ultra Processed Foods Lawyers from TorHoerman Law today for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to instantly find out if you qualify for the Ultra Processed Foods Lawsuit.