Ultra-processed foods are dominating the headlines for good reason — those quick snacks and easy breakfasts we’ve fed our kids are now being linked to serious health risks.
It’s no wonder so many families are asking tough questions: What’s actually in these foods? Why are they allowed on store shelves? And who’s responsible for the damage they’ve caused?
For parents whose children have already received a life-changing diagnosis (like type-2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease), those questions come with a call to action: demanding accountability from the corporations that engineered and marketed these harmful products to kids.
If your child has been diagnosed with a condition tied to ultra-processed foods, you’re not alone — and there are ways to fight back. Here’s what you need to know about joining a mass tort lawsuit against ultra-processed foods.
What Is the Landmark Lawsuit Against Ultra-Processed Foods?
In December 2024, Bryce Martinez, an 18-year-old from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, filed a groundbreaking lawsuit in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas against some of the biggest names in the food industry: Kraft Heinz, Mondelez, Coca-Cola, Nestlé, and more.
For Bryce, this isn’t just about fighting back against deceptive practices — it’s deeply personal. He claims that years of eating popular products like Bagel Bites, Swedish Fish, Honey Comb cereal, and Gatorade had led to devastating consequences. By the age of 16, he had already been diagnosed with type-2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
The lawsuit draws comparisons to Big Tobacco, alleging that food companies didn’t just stumble into creating unhealthy products — they used scientific research to deliberately manipulate ingredients, ensuring their snacks and drinks were not only irresistible but habit-forming. And by targeting children with colorful packaging and kid-friendly advertising, these companies prioritized profits over the health and futures of their youngest consumers.
What Does the Martinez Lawsuit Mean for Families Harmed by Ultra-Processed Foods?
Bryce Martinez’s lawsuit isn’t just one family’s fight; it’s part of a larger legal movement to hold food corporations accountable for the harm caused by ultra-processed foods. Families across the country are joining what’s known as a mass tort lawsuit — a coordinated legal effort that gives each family the opportunity to tell their story and seek justice.
Mass tort lawsuits are different from class actions. In a class action, everyone is grouped into a single case, and any compensation is divided equally. A mass tort, on the other hand, recognizes that every family’s situation is unique. Your child’s diagnosis, medical expenses, and emotional toll are all individually considered, while still benefiting from the collective strength of families standing together.
In the case of ultra-processed foods, this means that parents can come forward, share their experiences, and push for accountability from companies they have trusted. These cases aren’t just about compensation — they’re about making sure no other family has to suffer the same consequences.
How to Join a Mass Tort Lawsuit for Kids Harmed by Ultra-Processed Foods
1. Start with a free case evaluation
The first step is reaching out to an experienced attorney who specializes in mass tort cases. During this no-cost consultation, we’ll:
- Listen to your story.
- Review your child’s medical diagnosis and history.
- Ask about the types of ultra-processed foods your child regularly consumes.
- Explain the lawsuit’s requirements and determine if your family qualifies to join.
This is a no-pressure opportunity to get answers to your questions and learn about your legal options. Get your free case evaluation from Slater & Zurz by calling 330-762-0700 today.
2. We’ll gather the key details
Once you’ve decided to move forward, we’ll help you collect the evidence to build a strong case. This typically includes:
- Medical records: Proof of your child’s diagnosis and treatments related to conditions like type-2 diabetes or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
- Dietary history: Information about the ultra-processed foods in your child’s diet — this could include specific brands or products that were a staple in your household.
- Receipts or photos: Documentation that shows your connection to these products, such as grocery receipts or pictures of commonly purchased items.
3. File an individual claim
We’ll draft and file a claim that reflects your child’s unique circumstances, including:
- Your child’s diagnosis: Beyond just the medical details, we’ll dive into how it has impacted their health and quality of life.
- Medical expenses: The costs you’ve incurred so far, from doctor’s visits and diagnostic tests to medications and treatments, as well as future medical needs.
- The emotional and financial toll on your family: It’s not just physical health implications, but also the weight of this diagnosis on your entire family — from missed work to caregiving responsibilities.
4. Let us handle the heavy lifting
Once we’ve filed your claim, you can focus on what matters most: supporting your child and your family. From this point forward, we’ll take the weight of the legal process off your shoulders.
- Building a strong case: We’ll work closely with experts (e.g., medical professionals, food industry analysts, and other specialists) to gather the evidence needed to make your case as compelling as possible.
- Representing your family: From drafting court filings to negotiating with the corporations responsible, we’ll handle every detail. You won’t have to navigate confusing legal jargon or worry about deadlines.
- Pursuing maximum compensation: We’re committed to fighting for the compensation your family needs to rebuild and move forward.
While you might be asked to provide additional details or even share your experiences as testimony, we’ll be there to guide you and make the process as stress-free as possible so you can focus on supporting your child.
Ready to take this step forward to advocate for your child’s health and well-being? Call us today at 330-762-0700 for a free case evaluation.