San Francisco Sues Major Food Manufacturers Over Ultraprocessed Foods

San Francisco has initiated a groundbreaking lawsuit against ten major food manufacturers, alleging that their production and marketing of ultraprocessed foods have significantly contributed to a public health crisis. The lawsuit, filed on December 2, 2025, by City Attorney David Chiu, targets companies including The Kraft Heinz Company, Mondelez International, The Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo, Nestlé USA, General Mills, Kellogg, Mars Incorporated, ConAgra Brands, and Post Holdings.

The city contends that these corporations have knowingly engineered and promoted ultraprocessed foods—such as candies, sodas, processed snacks, and cereals—that are addictive and detrimental to consumers' health. These products are linked to serious health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, heart disease, and cancer. The lawsuit accuses the companies of violating California's Unfair Competition Law and public nuisance statute by employing deceptive marketing practices and contributing to the proliferation of health issues among residents.

City Attorney David Chiu emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, "They took food and made it unrecognizable and harmful to the human body. These companies engineered a public health crisis, they profited handsomely, and now they need to take responsibility for the harm they have caused."

Ultraprocessed foods are industrially manufactured products containing ingredients not typically found in home kitchens, such as preservatives, flavor enhancers, artificial colors, and emulsifiers. These foods often have little to no whole food content and are designed to stimulate cravings and encourage overconsumption. Studies have linked the consumption of ultraprocessed foods to an increased risk of various health conditions, including obesity, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.

This legal action is unprecedented, marking the first time a municipality has sued food manufacturers over ultraprocessed foods. It follows growing concerns about the health effects of such products, supported by studies from institutions like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and advocacy from U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. In March 2025, Kennedy urged major food companies to eliminate artificial dyes from their products, highlighting the need for industry reform to combat chronic illnesses linked to diet.

Additionally, in October 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a law mandating the gradual elimination of certain ultraprocessed foods from school meals over the next decade. This legislation requires the state Department of Public Health to define "ultraprocessed foods of concern" by mid-2028, with schools beginning to phase out these foods by 2029 and fully eliminating them by 2035.

The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the food industry, potentially leading to stricter regulations and changes in marketing practices. As of now, the companies named in the lawsuit have not publicly responded to the allegations. The case also raises questions about corporate responsibility and the role of government in addressing public health issues related to diet and nutrition.

This comprehensive overview provides a foundation for understanding the multifaceted aspects of San Francisco's lawsuit against major food manufacturers and its broader implications.