Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) & Legal Claims for Type 2 Diabetes and Fatty Liver Disease
If you or your child consumed a significant amount of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and were later diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes or Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD/Steatohepatitis) before the age of 18, you may be eligible for substantial compensation.
Speak with Attorney Tim Misny to Explore Your UPF Lawsuit Options
Who Qualifies for a UPF Lawsuit?
To file a claim against food manufacturers, you must meet the following criteria:
- Diagnosis Before Age 18 of either:
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) / Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)
- Additional Requirements:
- The affected individual is currently under the age of 30
- A history of consuming large amounts of ultra-processed foods
Common Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) Linked to Health Risks
Ultra-processed foods include products that are highly industrialized, often containing artificial ingredients, additives, preservatives, and high levels of sugar or unhealthy fats. Examples include:
- Frozen and microwave-ready meals
- Breakfast cereals with added sugars
- Fast food (burgers, fries, fried chicken, etc.)
- Processed meats (hot dogs, sausages, chicken nuggets)
- Packaged snacks (cookies, chips, crackers)
- Soft drinks and sugary beverages
Health Risks Associated with UPFs in Children
Multiple studies have shown that frequent consumption of UPFs leads to serious long-term health consequences, particularly in children.
1. Obesity and Excess Weight Gain
- A JAMA Network Open study found that higher UPF intake correlates with increased BMI, waist circumference, and fat accumulation in children.
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2. Elevated Cardiometabolic Risks
- Consuming UPFs regularly raises blood sugar levels, lowers good cholesterol (HDL), and increases the likelihood of Type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
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3. Poor Physical Fitness & Development Issues
- Young children who consume high amounts of UPFs show weaker motor skills, while older children display reduced cardiovascular endurance.
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4. Dental and Jaw Development Concerns
- UPFs often lack the necessary texture and nutrients to properly develop jaw muscles and bones, leading to dental misalignment and weakened bone structure.
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How Are Food Companies Being Held Accountable?
Manufacturers of ultra-processed foods heavily market their products to children, often through bright packaging, cartoon mascots, and misleading health claims. Lawsuits are now emerging to challenge deceptive marketing practices, holding these companies responsible for their role in fueling childhood obesity and metabolic diseases.
Recent Lawsuits Against Major Food Companies
- A Philadelphia lawsuit alleges that companies like Kraft Heinz, Mondelez, and Coca-Cola intentionally marketed addictive ultra-processed foods to children, leading to lifelong health issues.
Read More - PepsiCo faced legal action over its misleading claims about Gatorade protein bars, which contained more sugar than protein, despite being marketed as a healthy snack. A court ruled that consumers may have been deceived, allowing the case to proceed.
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Steps to Filing a Lawsuit Against UPF Manufacturers
If you or your child have been negatively impacted by ultra-processed foods, legal action may be an option. Below are the steps required to file a claim:
1. Establish a Legal Basis for the Case
A lawsuit against a UPF manufacturer may be based on one or more of the following claims:
- Negligence: The company failed to prioritize consumer safety when developing and promoting its products.
- Failure to Warn: No proper disclosure of the risks associated with prolonged consumption.
- Deceptive Marketing: Misleading advertisements suggesting UPFs are healthier than they truly are.
- Fraudulent Claims: Intentionally presenting false information about a product’s benefits.
- Unfair Business Practices: Targeting children and low-income communities with deceptive marketing tactics.
2. Collect Supporting Evidence
To strengthen the case, plaintiffs should gather:
- Product Labels & Advertisements showcasing misleading claims
- Medical Documentation linking the consumption of UPFs to diabetes or liver disease
- Scientific Studies confirming the negative health effects of UPFs
- Expert Testimony from healthcare and nutrition professionals
3. Prove Causation
To win a case, plaintiffs must demonstrate a direct connection between UPF consumption and a diagnosed health condition.
4. Identify the Defendants
Companies that have been named in UPF lawsuits include:
- Kraft Heinz
- Mondelez International
- PepsiCo
- Nestlé USA
- WK Kellogg Co.
- Mars, Inc.
- Coca-Cola
5. File the Lawsuit
A claim must be filed within the statute of limitations, which varies by state. Seeking legal guidance early is crucial to meet deadlines.
6. Work with an Experienced Attorney
Due to the complexity of product liability cases, legal representation is essential. Attorney Tim Misny specializes in class action lawsuits against food manufacturers and can help determine if you have a strong case.
Take Action – Speak with Attorney Tim Misny
If you or your child developed Type 2 Diabetes or Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease due to prolonged consumption of ultra-processed foods, you may be entitled to compensation.
Contact Tim Misny today to discuss your case and explore legal options.