Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

If you or a loved one experienced type-2 diabetes or fatty liver disease following consumption of ultra-processed foods, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to harmful food products. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit Overview

Ultra-processed food lawsuits are being filed against major food manufacturers for allegedly creating addictive products that lead to serious health conditions. The primary allegations claim these companies intentionally design ultra-processed foods (UPFs) to be addictive, causing health issues like type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), particularly in children.

Recent studies have established significant links between UPF consumption and increased risk of these conditions, with manufacturers being accused of employing strategies similar to tobacco companies.

Latest Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit Updates

• March 2024 – A notable lawsuit was filed in Philadelphia against major food companies including Kraft Heinz and General Mills, accusing them of creating addictive products that cause dependency and lead to serious health conditions like type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
• February 2024 – Research published in medical journals showed that each 10% increase in UPF intake corresponded to a 12% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, strengthening the scientific basis for legal claims against food manufacturers [1].
• January 2024 – Studies revealed that high intake of UPFs is associated with a 42% increased risk of developing NAFLD, providing additional evidence for plaintiffs in ongoing litigation [2].

FDA Reports and Statistics

Significant research findings include:

• A meta-analysis involving over 400,000 participants established a direct correlation between UPF consumption and type 2 diabetes risk
• Studies indicate a 42% increased risk of developing NAFLD with high UPF consumption
• UPFs are industrial formulations typically containing five or more ingredients, including additives not commonly used in home cooking [3]
• These products include sugary beverages, packaged snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and processed meats

Ultra-Processed Food Injuries & Side Effects

Ultra-processed foods have been linked to several serious health conditions due to their high levels of refined sugars, additives, and preservatives.

• Type 2 Diabetes: Insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism leading to chronic high blood sugar
• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Excessive fat accumulation in the liver causing inflammation and potential long-term damage
• Metabolic Dysfunction: Disruption of gut microbiota and metabolic processes
• Addictive-Like Consumption Patterns: Dependency similar to that seen with addictive substances

Do You Qualify for an Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit?

You may qualify for an Ultra-Processed Food lawsuit if:

• Your child regularly consumed ultra-processed foods from major manufacturers
• Your child was diagnosed with type-2 diabetes or fatty liver disease
• You can provide medical documentation linking these conditions to UPF consumption
• There is evidence of consistent consumption of specific ultra-processed food products

Evidence Required for an Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit

To successfully pursue an Ultra-Processed Food lawsuit, you will need to gather:

• Medical records documenting the diagnosis of type-2 diabetes or NAFLD
• Documentation of regular UPF consumption, including receipts, packaging, or other proof of purchase
• Medical expert testimony establishing a causal link between UPF consumption and the diagnosed condition
• Evidence of the specific products consumed and their manufacturers

Damages You Can Recover

In an Ultra-Processed Food lawsuit, you may be eligible to recover:

• Medical expenses for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care
• Future medical costs for long-term management of chronic conditions
• Pain and suffering associated with the physical and emotional impacts
• Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
• Punitive damages against manufacturers who knowingly created harmful products

Statute of Limitations for Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing an Ultra-Processed Food lawsuit varies by state. It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after diagnosis to ensure your case is filed within the applicable timeframe. In many jurisdictions, the statute begins from the date of diagnosis or from when you reasonably should have known about the connection between ultra-processed foods and the health condition.

FAQs

1. What are ultra-processed foods (UPFs)?

UPFs are industrial formulations typically containing five or more ingredients, including substances not commonly used in home cooking, such as preservatives, emulsifiers, and artificial flavors. Examples include sugary beverages, packaged snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and processed meats.

2. How do UPFs increase the risk of type 2 diabetes?

The high glycemic index of many UPFs leads to rapid blood sugar spikes, contributing to insulin resistance. Additionally, additives like emulsifiers and artificial sweeteners may disrupt gut microbiota and metabolic processes, further increasing diabetes risk.

3. What is the connection between UPFs and fatty liver disease?

The additives and high levels of refined sugars in UPFs contribute to liver fat accumulation and inflammation, leading to liver damage over time. Research indicates a 42% increased risk of developing NAFLD with high UPF consumption.

4. What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes I should watch for?

Key symptoms include increased thirst and urination, persistent fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing sores due to impaired circulation and immune response.

5. What are the symptoms of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)?

NAFLD symptoms include abdominal discomfort in the upper right abdomen, generalized fatigue, elevated liver enzymes detected through blood tests, and jaundice in advanced stages.

6. Who is eligible to file an Ultra-Processed Food lawsuit?

Primarily, parents whose children have been diagnosed with type-2 diabetes or fatty liver disease after regularly consuming ultra-processed foods may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

7. How do I prove my case against food manufacturers?

You’ll need medical documentation of your diagnosis, evidence of regular UPF consumption, and expert testimony establishing a causal link between the products and your health condition.

8. Can I join an existing class action lawsuit?

Yes, your attorney can guide you on whether to join existing class-action suits against food manufacturers or initiate an individual claim based on your specific circumstances.

9. What companies are being sued for ultra-processed foods?

Major food companies including Kraft Heinz and General Mills have been named in lawsuits regarding ultra-processed foods.

10. Is there a fee to have my case evaluated?

No, Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers free confidential case evaluations for potential Ultra-Processed Food lawsuits.

See Also: Food Poisoning Lawsuit

Get a Free Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries caused by ultra-processed foods. Many states have strict statutes of limitations that may prevent you from filing a claim if you wait too long after diagnosis.

The Food Poisoning Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for representation
• Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation for you

References

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10831891/

2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10224355/

3. https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/46/7/1335/148548/Ultra-Processed-Food-Consumption-and-Risk-of-Type