PepsiCo Resolves Lawsuit Over Gatorade Health Bar Claims

Core Viewpoint - PepsiCo has resolved a lawsuit regarding the misleading marketing of its Gatorade protein bars, which were claimed to be beneficial but contained more sugar than protein and more sugar than certain candy bars and donuts [1][2]. Summary by Sections Lawsuit Details - The lawsuit was dismissed with prejudice by U.S. District Judge Casey Pitts, meaning it cannot be refiled, at the request of PepsiCo and the plaintiffs [1][4]. - The plaintiffs accused PepsiCo of violating consumer protection laws by promoting Gatorade bars as beneficial for muscle recovery and scientifically backed, despite containing 28 grams of added sugar, exceeding the American Heart Association's recommended daily limit for women [2][3]. Health Concerns - The plaintiffs argued that the high sugar content is linked to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, and stated they would not have purchased the bars or would have paid less if they had known the true contents [3]. Company Response - PepsiCo described the claims of deception as "implausible," asserting that the Gatorade bars were not marketed as healthy or low in sugar, particularly for certain flavors [3][4]. - The case was allowed to proceed in August 2024, with the judge noting that reasonable consumers might be misled by the product labels and claims [4].