San Francisco sues Coca-Cola, Kellogg over ultra-processed foods. What that means
San Francisco has taken legal action against ten major food manufacturers over ultra-processed snacks and drinks. The city claims these products have fuelled a public health crisis, particularly among children in marginalised communities. Officials are now seeking both financial compensation and stricter marketing regulations.
The lawsuit names Kraft Heinz, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, General Mills, Nestlé USA, Mars, Mondelez International, Post Holdings, Kellogg, and Conagra Brands. City Attorney David Chiu compared the companies’ tactics to those of tobacco firms in the 1990s, accusing them of knowingly selling harmful products for profit.
San Francisco is demanding an unspecified sum to address health issues linked to these foods. The suit also aims to stop deceptive advertising, especially in Black and Latino neighbourhoods, where marketing has been most aggressive. So far, none of the named companies have publicly responded to the allegations. The case mirrors past legal battles that forced tobacco firms to change their practices and pay billions in damages.
If successful, the lawsuit could force food giants to alter their marketing strategies and pay for public health programmes. The city’s action may also set a precedent for other local governments grappling with diet-related illnesses. For now, the case awaits responses from the accused manufacturers.
