Did you know that over half of all calories consumed at home by U.S. adults come from ultra-processed foods? (It makes sense — they’re designed to be tasty and convenient, making them a go-to choice for busy individuals and families.)
However, recent research has shown that many of these same foods are contributing to serious health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer. Even more disturbing is that evidence suggests some food manufacturers may have known about these risks all along.
There’s a growing movement to hold food manufacturers accountable. If you’ve been diagnosed with a health condition linked to these foods, you might be eligible for an ultra-processed foods lawsuit settlement. Read on to see if you qualify.
The State of Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuits in 2025
In December 2024, 18-year-old Bryce Martinez made headlines when he filed a lawsuit against food giants like Kraft Heinz, Mondelez, and Coca-Cola. His lawsuit alleges that these companies engaged in deceptive marketing practices, engineered their products to be addictive, and deliberately targeted children — practices that, he claims, led to his diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
If Martinez’s claims hold up in court, it could open the door for thousands, or even millions, of consumers who have suffered similar health effects from UPFs to file their own claims in a major wave of mass tort litigation. The food industry would then face a reckoning on the scale of Big Tobacco’s multi-billion-dollar settlements.
Are You Eligible for an Ultra-Processed Foods Lawsuit Settlement?
While every situation is unique, here are some factors that might make you eligible for an ultra-processed foods lawsuit settlement.
Diagnosis of a qualifying health condition
The current lawsuits primarily focus on conditions like type 2 diabetes, NAFLD, and significant cardiovascular issues directly linked to UPF consumption.
If you or your child has been diagnosed with one of these conditions, and you believe it’s linked to a diet heavy in ultra-processed foods, you might have grounds for a claim.
Evidence of UPF consumption
A strong case requires proof of consistent and significant consumption of UPFs. This might include:
- Receipts or grocery purchase records
- Food diaries
- Witness testimony from family or medical professionals
The more clearly you can demonstrate a long-term reliance on these foods, the stronger your case may be.
Age
Many lawsuits specifically focus on children and adolescents, as they are considered particularly vulnerable to the marketing and addictive nature of UPFs. If your child has suffered health consequences due to UPF consumption, they might be eligible for compensation.
Learn more about how to join a mass tort lawsuit for kids harmed by ultra-processed foods.
Navigating the Future of Food and Your Health
The legal battle against ultra-processed foods is just beginning. As more individuals come forward with health issues potentially linked to these products, pressure is mounting on the food industry to answer for its actions.
These cases aren’t just about compensation — they’re about forcing billion-dollar corporations to take responsibility for the products they push and how they market them. It’s about demanding truth, transparency, and real change.
At Slater & Zurz, we know what it takes to stand up to powerful corporations. We’ve helped clients win millions in mass tort cases against some of the biggest companies in the world. If you or your child has suffered health consequences from ultra-processed foods, we’re here to help.
The best part? Pay nothing unless we win. Contact Slater & Zurz for a free consultation today at 330-762-0700.
FAQs About Ultra-Processed Foods Lawsuit Settlements
How much compensation can I expect from an ultra-processed food lawsuit?
It’s too early to put a number on potential settlements, but here’s what we do know: compensation in these lawsuits will depend on several factors, including the severity of your health condition, how much ultra-processed food you regularly consume, and the level of negligence by food manufacturers.
Slater & Zurz knows how to take on corporate giants — and win. We’ve secured millions for clients in mass tort cases against powerful companies and are prepared to fight just as hard for you.
What if I can’t prove that my health condition was caused solely by UPFs?
That’s a fair concern. Nutrition is complex, and health conditions don’t come with a label that says, “caused by ultra-processed foods.” But you don’t need to prove that UPFs were the only factor, just that they played a significant role.
That’s where we come in. Our legal team will work with medical experts to gather the strongest possible evidence for your case. Even if other factors contributed to your condition, you may still be eligible for compensation.
Do I have to pay anything upfront to pursue a lawsuit?
Not a penny. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win.
If you’re ready to explore your options, call Slater & Zurz today at 330-762-0700 for a free consultation.
