You might have purchased Chobani yogurt believing you were choosing a healthy, natural product. A proposed class action lawsuit filed in April 2025 may challenge that belief.
The action claims that Chobani misled consumers by labeling their products as containing "only natural ingredients," while independent testing revealed the presence of toxic plastic chemicals.
PlasticList, an independent testing organization, discovered phthalates in Chobani products, forming the foundation of the litigation that accuses the company of false advertising and consumer fraud.
Understanding the Toxic Chemicals Found in Chobani Yogurt
The alleged toxic chemicals found in Chobani products belong to a group called phthalates.
Unlike the "forever chemicals" that often make headlines, phthalates represent a different category of Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Testing revealed four specific PFAS types: DEHP, DEP, DBP, and DEHT, which manufacturers use to make plastic packaging more flexible and durable.
Possible health hazard
Consumer research has revealed that exposure to Phthalate chemicals may adversely affect your health:
- Phthalates act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with your body's hormone systems.
- Chemical exposure to these substances is linked to reproductive issues and developmental problems.
- The chemicals are known to migrate from packaging into food products.
- Long-term exposure may contribute to metabolic disorders and other health concerns.
The plaintiffs in this case have argued that Phthalate chemicals shouldn't appear in products marketed as natural and claim that reasonable consumers would not have purchased these products had they known about the contamination.
Which Chobani Products Are Affected by This Lawsuit?
The Chobani class action specifically identifies two Chobani products where PlasticList allegedly found toxic chemicals:
- Chobani Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt
- Chobani Whole Milk Plain Greek Yogurt
These plain Greek yogurt and Chobani varieties represent some of the company's most popular offerings.
Toxic source identified
The lawsuit also points to the #5 plastic packaging as the likely source of contamination.
Number five packaging, while widely used in the food industry, ”probably allowed chemical migration” from the container into the Chobani yogurt products, according to the class attorneys.
Previous litigation precedent
Interestingly, the case builds on previous legal challenges to set a precedent. It references a 2023 class action lawsuit that accused Chobani of misleading practices regarding their zero-sugar yogurt products.
That earlier case involved claims about four grams of allulose in products marketed as sugar-free.
This new class action now expands the scrutiny to include chemical safety in Chobani's core product line.
Misleading Labels and Food Safety Arguments
When you see "only natural ingredients" on a label, you likely trust that claim. The proposed class action lawsuit alleges that Chobani violated this trust.
Consumer surveys consistently show that shoppers pay premium prices for products they believe are free from synthetic chemicals.
The lawsuit says approximately 73% of consumers actively seek out natural food products, with many willing to pay 20-30% more for items they perceive as healthier.
Class plaintiffs argue that consumer preference makes accurate labeling a matter of legal compliance and ethical business practice.
And when companies mislead consumers about product contents, it expressly violates food safety statutes.
Who May Join This Class Action Against Chobani?
Class plaintiffs are hoping to establish two distinct classes:
- Nationwide class to include anyone in the United States who purchased the affected Chobani yogurt products.
- California subclass that addresses specific violations of state and federal consumer laws unique to that state.
Consumers who purchased Chobani Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt or Chobani Whole Milk Plain Greek Yogurt during the applicable period may join this litigation if the US District Court certifies this lawsuit.
Purchase dates will depend on statute of limitations rulings but may generally cover purchases made within the past several years.
What Chobani Allegedly Did Wrong
The complaint argues five distinct legal theories, each addressing separate elements of alleged corporate misconduct.
California Legal Remedies Act (CLRA)
This legislation addresses deceptive business practices, protects California consumers from false advertising, and allows for both monetary damages and injunctive relief.
Unfair Competition Law (UCL)
Encompasses any unlawful, unfair, or fraudulent business practice. Attorneys argue that marketing products as natural, while they contain synthetic chemicals, violates this broad consumer protection statute. The UCL provides powerful remedies, including restitution of money paid for falsely advertised products.
False Advertising Law (FAL)
The claim specifically targets the "only natural ingredients" labeling, where the law prohibits any advertising likely to deceive consumers about product nature, characteristics, or qualities. The plaintiffs further assert a breach of express warranty claim, arguing that Chobani's natural labeling created a specific promise to consumers, one that the company allegedly broke through the presence of phthalates.
Unjust enrichment
Seeks to prevent Chobani from keeping profits earned through alleged deception. This equitable remedy ensures companies cannot benefit financially from violations of consumer protection laws.
Together, these claims represent a comprehensive challenge to Chobani's marketing and labeling practices.
Timeline and Next Steps in the Chobani Lawsuit
Understanding where this case stands helps set realistic expectations. The plaintiffs filed their lawsuit in April 2025, and the case is now working its way through the early phases of litigation.
Unlike settled cases where claim forms circulate immediately, this active litigation requires patience from affected consumers.
Chobani will likely file motions challenging the lawsuit's claims, arguing that its products meet all applicable standards.
The court must then decide whether to dismiss the case or certify the class, allowing litigation to proceed for all affected consumers.
What Happens If You've Already Consumed the Products?
Many consumers naturally worry after learning about potential chemical exposure from products they've already consumed.
If you're concerned about past exposure, consider these points:
- Document your purchase history if possible.
- Monitor your health, but don't panic - the body can process and eliminate many chemicals.
- Consult healthcare providers if you have specific concerns.
- Keep records of any health issues you believe might relate to chemical exposure.
Holding Corporations Accountable
The Chobani class action lawsuit represents more than a legal dispute about yogurt labeling. It highlights the ongoing tension between consumer expectations and corporate practices in consumer trust.
The lawsuit offers a path to accountability for consumers who purchased these Chobani products, believing they were choosing a natural option.
While no settlement or claim form exists, staying informed about this active case ensures you'll be ready to participate if and when resolution occurs.
Add Comment