Big Food Under Fire: San Francisco Sues Over Ultra-Processed Food Health Risks

Are ultra-processed foods the new tobacco? San Francisco is betting they are, launching a landmark lawsuit against major food manufacturers, seeking to hold them accountable for the public health crisis linked to ultra-processed foods. With over half of the caloric intake in adults and a staggering 67% in children coming from these foods, the stakes are incredibly high.

The Lawsuit: A David vs. Goliath Battle?

On December 2, 2025, San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu announced a groundbreaking lawsuit against ten of the nation’s largest food corporations. The suit alleges that these companies, including Kraft Heinz, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Nestle USA, General Mills, Mars Inc., Mondelez International Inc., Post Holdings Inc., Conagra Brands Inc., Kellanova, and WK Kellogg Co., engaged in “unfair and deceptive acts” by marketing and selling products they knew were harmful and addictive. This legal action marks the first time a government entity has taken such a bold step against the ultra-processed food industry.

The lawsuit, filed in San Francisco Superior Court, claims that these companies violated California’s Unfair Competition Law and public nuisance statute. It seeks an order to prohibit the companies from deceptive marketing practices and to compel them to take corrective actions to mitigate the harm caused by their products. The city also seeks financial compensation to help local governments cover the healthcare costs associated with the consumption of ultra-processed foods.

What are Ultra-Processed Foods?

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrially manufactured products made mostly of substances extracted from other foods or created in laboratories, often containing numerous additives. These foods typically have long shelf lives and are designed to be highly palatable, often at the expense of nutritional value. Examples include:

Candy
Chips
Processed meats
Sodas
Sugary cereals
Frozen meals

These products often contain high levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, along with artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.

The Health Risks: A Growing Body of Evidence

A growing body of scientific evidence links the consumption of ultra-processed foods to a wide range of health problems. A systematic review of 104 long-term studies revealed that 92 of them reported increased risks of chronic diseases and early death from all causes related to high UPF intake. Some of the most significant health risks associated with UPFs include:

Obesity: Studies have shown that people consume more calories and gain weight when eating a diet high in ultra-processed foods.
Type 2 Diabetes: High consumption of UPFs is linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Cardiovascular Disease: Research indicates a strong association between UPF intake and cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and stroke.
Cancer: Some studies have found a link between ultra-processed food consumption and an increased risk of certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer.
Mental Health Disorders: UPFs have been associated with a higher risk of depression and other mental health issues.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Regular consumption of ultra-processed foods can contribute to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, especially in children.

Echoes of Big Tobacco?

City Attorney David Chiu has drawn parallels between the ultra-processed food industry and Big Tobacco, arguing that both industries knowingly sold harmful products while concealing the truth from the public to maximize profits. This comparison highlights the potential for holding food manufacturers accountable for the health consequences of their products, similar to the legal battles fought against tobacco companies.

Industry Response and Counterarguments

The Consumer Brands Association, a trade group representing many of the defendant companies, has defended the manufacturers, arguing that they are working to improve the nutrition of their products. They also caution against “demonizing” certain foods and argue that there is no agreed-upon scientific definition of ultra-processed foods.

Some experts argue that focusing solely on the degree of processing may mislead consumers, as it could incentivize the food industry to remove markers of ultra-processing from unhealthy foods without actually improving their nutritional value.

The Potential Impact: A Turning Point for Public Health?

San Francisco’s lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for the food industry and public health. If successful, it could:

Change Marketing Practices: Force food companies to change their marketing strategies, particularly those targeting children and low-income communities.
Drive Product Reformulation: Encourage manufacturers to reformulate their products to reduce the levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.
Increase Consumer Awareness: Raise public awareness about the health risks associated with ultra-processed foods, empowering consumers to make more informed choices.
Inspire Further Legal Action: Pave the way for other cities and states to file similar lawsuits, creating a wave of legal pressure on the food industry.

What Can You Do?

While the legal battle unfolds, individuals can take steps to protect their health and well-being:

Read Labels Carefully: Pay attention to the ingredients list and nutritional information on food products.
Limit UPF Intake: Reduce your consumption of ultra-processed foods and focus on whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Cook at Home: Prepare meals at home using fresh ingredients to control what you eat.
Advocate for Change: Support policies and initiatives that promote healthier food environments and restrict the marketing of unhealthy foods to children.

The lawsuit brought by San Francisco is a significant step towards addressing the public health crisis linked to ultra-processed foods. By holding food manufacturers accountable for their actions, it could pave the way for a healthier future for all.

Are you or a loved one suffering from health issues potentially linked to ultra-processed foods? Contact our firm today for a consultation to discuss your legal options.