Ultra-Processed Foods Lawsuit Marketing Campaigns

Law firms have seen an increase in ultra-processed food lawsuits and class action lawsuits for several reasons. The rise of ultra-processed foods litigation has emerged as a significant legal trend, targeting processed food manufacturers and food companies for their role in producing and marketing these products. In addition to the rise in ultra-processed food options hitting store shelves, numerous studies have found that diets high in ultra-processed foods are associated with a higher risk of adverse health effects and a range of health issues.

Misleading Advertising and Marketing

Even more concerning are the allegations that large processed food manufacturers and food companies have continued to mislead consumers about the nature of their food products and their associated health risks. Many ultra-processed foods are aggressively marketed, especially to young consumers and young adults, using aggressive marketing tactics similar to those once used by the tobacco industry. These products include labels and packaging that indicate they are “healthy” or “all-natural.”

Deceptive Labels and Packaging

Deceptive labels and packaging may lead consumers to believe their food does not pose significant safety risks. Few attempts have been made to adequately warn consumers about the important health consequences of regular consumption of certain ultra-processed products, which is a key factor in establishing claims in an ultra-processed foods lawsuit.

Some companies have also funded nutrition education programs to downplay the risks of their products, further misleading children and teens about healthy eating. Plaintiffs in these cases may seek compensation for medical expenses incurred due to health issues linked to ultra-processed foods. An ultra-processed foods lawyer can help guide affected individuals through the process, often on a contingency fee basis, making legal representation accessible for those harmed by these products.

As scrutiny of the food industry grows, deceptive labeling and misleading packaging practices are becoming central to emerging legal claims. Plaintiffs and advocacy groups are drawing attention to how vague or intentionally confusing labels such as “natural,” “light,” or “made with whole grains” can disguise the presence of harmful additives and highly processed ingredients. This rising awareness is contributing to a growing number of lawsuits that challenge not only the content of the products but also the branding and messaging used to influence consumer choices. As more people become informed about the risks of ultra-processed foods, litigation is expected to increase, forcing food companies to defend both their formulations and their marketing strategies in court.

In addition to more studies and an increased focus on the ill effects of ultra-processed foods, some states are taking a more aggressive approach to warning consumers about their associated risks. Legislative efforts are often supported by agencies such as human services and national institutes, which provide research and policy recommendations to address public health concerns related to nutrition and childhood health.

In April 2025, California’s Assembly Bill 1264 cleared its first significant legislative hurdle. It passed through the state Assembly Education Committee with firm support. State lawmakers backing the bill say that a growing body of scientific evidence, including research from national institutes, links ultra-processed foods to chronic diseases. They also argue that protecting children’s health requires proactive intervention. The bill would legally define “ultra-processed foods” and require California schools to phase out harmful foods. Changes in such legislation could have a significant impact on the overall food supply, influencing what is available and regulated in schools and potentially beyond.

Those who oppose the measure claim that overhauling school food programs would be difficult. However, the bill’s momentum continues as it moves toward broader legislative debate. It is important to note that other factors, such as nutrient fortification and the nutritional benefits of certain ultra-processed foods, also influence food classification and health outcomes, which are part of the ongoing discussion. Advocacy groups continue promoting campaigns, urging swift passage to set a national example.

It can be an uphill legal battle for one individual to hold a major food industry manufacturer accountable for adverse health effects and deceptive marketing practices. Several legal pathways may be available to victims injured by a food manufacturer’s actions. Ultra-processed food companies such as Post Holdings, Kraft Heinz, General Mills, and Coca-Cola have been named as major defendants in recent lawsuits alleging that their products contribute to serious health issues like obesity and diabetes.

The first option may be a mass tort. This type of case is more likely when multiple individuals file claims with varying degrees of health harm, such as diabetes, obesity, or cancer, caused by a long-term diet of ultra-processed foods. Mass tort claims can involve different exposure levels, brands, and medical outcomes, making them ideal for mass tort cases.

Another legal path that may be available for individuals is a class action lawsuit. Class action suits involve gathering a group of individuals with similar claims against a party and filing a legal action together instead of each person filing an individual lawsuit. The result is a more cost-effective option with greater collective power to build a solid case against the food manufacturer and potentially catalyze broader changes or reform.

Other Paths You Can Use

Legal experts are increasingly drawing parallels between the food industry and the tobacco industry, noting that tobacco companies used similar deceptive marketing tactics to promote addictive products. Some are calling litigation against ultra-processed foods the ‘next tobacco’ due to its potential public health impact and the legal strategies being employed. There is also ongoing debate in these cases over which foods are considered ultra-processed, as this classification can affect the scope and outcome of litigation.

Arbitration is a formal legal process where each party agrees to submit their case to a neutral third party who resolves the dispute and offers a binding decision. However, most food purchases do not involve arbitration agreements unless an individual secures their food through a subscription-based service.

At TSEG, we have significant experience generating mass tort leads with compliance and precision. Our team deeply understands legal advertising standards and ethical considerations. We’ll create targeted messaging and data-driven campaigns to educate, inform, and drive consumers injured by ultra-processed foods to take action.

Using data-driven targeting and SEO for lawyers, we identify individuals who may be affected by consumption and exposure to misleading food marketing. Next, we generate emotionally compelling and legally sound ads that inform and convert. These ads speak directly to individuals and families who need legal solutions to their problems. Our mission is to ensure your firm stands out and gets organic leads, with good web design and pay-per-click advertising.

At TSEG, we can help your law firm stand out. We’ll craft strategic and impactful campaigns that generate high-quality ultra-processed foods mass tort leads.

Contact us or call today at (512) 394-7234 and request a custom quote.