Ultra processed foods are a daily part of life for many families — sold in brightly colored packages, advertised as convenient, and often presented as wholesome choices for children. But mounting evidence shows these products can contribute to serious chronic illnesses, especially in young people.
In late 2024, the first legal claim seeking to hold major food companies accountable was filed. If you or your child has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), understanding what this lawsuit involves — and what it could mean for your family — is an important step.
How Did These Claims Begin?
The first publicly documented ultra processed foods lawsuit was filed in December 2024 in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. In that case, an 18-year-old plaintiff alleged that eating products such as Kraft Macaroni & Cheese, Coca-Cola, and Oreo cookies from childhood contributed to his diagnoses of type 2 diabetes and NAFLD by age 16.
As of July 2025, this lawsuit is ongoing. Defendants have filed motions asking the court to dismiss the claims, and a decision on whether the case will proceed is expected later this year. Attorneys across the country are reviewing similar cases and evaluating potential claims for other families.
Overview of the Claims Against Big Food Companies
These claims are based on well-established legal principles that protect consumers from unfair or harmful business practices. Here is a clear look at the main legal issues raised against major food manufacturers, outlining why these companies are being held accountable for their decisions and actions.
Negligence
Manufacturers are alleged to have acted negligently by formulating and advertising ultra processed foods in ways that made them dangerous and addictive. These products often contained combinations of sugar, salt, fat, and chemical additives known to increase the risk of chronic disease, especially when consumed regularly from a young age.
Failure to Warn Consumers
The claims assert that companies knew about the health dangers linked to frequent consumption of ultra processed foods but failed to include clear warnings on labels or in advertising. As a result, parents and young people were left without essential information about the risks of diabetes and fatty liver disease.
Breach of Warranty
Manufacturers are accused of breaching both implied and express warranties. Under the law, products should be reasonably safe for ordinary use. These claims argue that ultra processed foods failed that standard. In some cases, companies also made statements or slogans suggesting products were part of a healthy diet, promises that turned out to be misleading.
Misrepresentation and Concealment
The lawsuits further allege that food companies misrepresented important facts about the health impact of their products. In some instances, companies are accused of concealing evidence and research that demonstrated the potential harm. This lack of transparency prevented families from fully understanding what they were purchasing and eating.
Violations of Consumer Protection Laws
Finally, the claims state that companies engaged in unfair and deceptive business practices, in violation of state consumer protection laws. This includes marketing strategies aimed directly at children and presenting ultra processed foods as safe, everyday staples despite mounting evidence of long-term health risks.
What Are Families Seeking From UPF Lawsuits?
These lawsuits are intended to achieve several outcomes. They seek financial compensation to cover the costs that come with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This may include medical bills, ongoing treatment, medication, dietary needs, and the effect on a child’s or young adult’s ability to work and plan for the future.
They also aim to hold food companies legally responsible for the decisions and practices that contributed to these health problems, including designing products to be highly appealing and failing to warn consumers about the risks.
Another important goal of these claims is to push for changes in labeling, marketing, and product development, so that more transparent information is available and fewer families are harmed in the years ahead.
Through these cases, attorneys are working to secure both accountability and the resources necessary to support children, young adults, and families affected by ultra processed foods.
What Is the Current Status of the Investigation?
The Philadelphia lawsuit was the first of many cases looming for manufacturers of ultra processed foods. When additional lawsuits are filed as a result of ongoing investigations, they may be consolidated through a multidistrict litigation (MDL) or certified as class actions, depending on how the cases develop. For now, each situation is being evaluated individually and new information continues to emerge.
Our attorneys are actively reviewing potential claims on behalf of other families and young adults who have been diagnosed with related health conditions.
What Should You Do If You Have Questions?
If you or your child has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease after years of consuming ultra processed foods, you deserve to understand your legal options.
Because there are strict deadlines (called statutes of limitations) that control how long you have to act, it is wise to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
