Lawsuit Claims Campbell’s Soup Products Release Microplastics When Heated in Microwave

Campbell’s allegedly marketed certain ready-to-eat soups as microwavable despite packaging that may break down under heat and release microplastics into food.

A new class action lawsuit alleges that certain Campbell’s soup products may release harmful microplastics into food when heated in their original containers, exposing consumers to potential health risks during normal use.

The complaint (PDF) was filed by Margaret Peggi Louise Garvey in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California on April 10, seeking to represent a nationwide class of consumers. The lawsuit names The Campbell’s Company as the defendant.

Garvey claims Campbell’s knew or should have known about the risks associated with heating its packaging, yet failed to provide adequate warnings and instead continued to market the products as safe, resulting in consumers being unknowingly exposed to dangerous microplastics.

Microplastics Health Risks

Recent research has raised growing concerns about the potential health risks associated with microplastic exposure. Findings highlighted in multiple reports suggest microplastics have been detected in human blood and organs, raising questions about the long-term consequences for public health.

In particular, scientists have found evidence that microplastics may accumulate in the brain at higher levels than in other organs, prompting concerns about possible neurological effects. Some studies have even suggested a potential link between microplastic exposure and Alzheimer’s disease.

Additional research has identified microplastics in lung tissue, where the particles may contribute to inflammation and have been associated with an increased risk of malignant tumors. These findings have led to concerns that inhalation or ingestion of microplastics could play a role in the development of serious respiratory and systemic health conditions.

Campbell’s Soup Microplastics Allegations

According to Garvey’s complaint, Campbell’s labels and markets certain ready-to-eat soups as “microwavable,” leading consumers to believe the products can be safely heated in their original containers. However, the lawsuit claims the packaging, particularly the lids, is made from polypropylene plastic, which may break down when exposed to heat and release microscopic plastic particles directly into the food.

The lawsuit alleges that when the soup containers are heated in a microwave, the polypropylene packaging sheds significant amounts of microplastics and nanoplastics into the contents. Citing scientific research, the complaint indicates that even short heating periods can result in the release of millions of plastic particles, with levels increasing substantially as heating time continues.

Garvey claims these particles may pose serious health risks if ingested, including potential impacts on the digestive system, immune function and other bodily processes. The complaint points to studies suggesting microplastics may alter gut microbiota, contribute to inflammation and potentially be linked to more severe long-term health complications.

The lawsuit further alleges Campbell’s was aware, or should have been aware, of the risks associated with heating polypropylene containers, but failed to disclose this information to consumers. Instead, the company allegedly continued to promote the products as safe for microwave use, without providing warnings about the potential for microplastic contamination.

As a result, the complaint claims consumers were unknowingly exposed to harmful substances while using the products as intended, and would not have purchased or would have paid less for the soups had they been aware of the risks.

“By labeling the Products as ‘Microwavable,’ Defendant misleads consumers into believing they are free of risks associated with microwave heating as directed. Consumers rightfully expect that products designed for microwave use and marketed as ‘Microwavable’ will not leach harmful substances and chemicals directly into their food when used for the purposes advertised.”

—  Margaret Peggi Louise Garvey v. The Campbell’s Company

Garvey raises allegations of violations of various consumer protection laws, as well as false advertising, unjust enrichment and breach of warranty. She seeks compensatory, statutory, punitive and treble damages, as well as other relief on behalf of herself and other consumers who purchased the affected products.

Microplastics Lawsuits

The lawsuit comes amid increasing scrutiny over microplastics in consumer products, including food packaging, as well as other items marketed for everyday household use.

For example, recent WaterWipes lawsuits have raised concerns that those products, which are advertised as the “world’s purest baby wipes,” may contain microplastics. In addition, separate Ziploc bag lawsuits allege those food storage products may shed plastic particles, particularly when exposed to heat or repeated use.

As scientific research continues to examine how microplastics migrate from packaging into food and beverages, product liability attorneys indicate that litigation is likely to expand, particularly involving products designed for heating, storage or direct food contact.

Sign up for more legal news that could affect you or your family.