Beyond Meat Faces Lawsuit Over False Protein Content and Quality Claims
Some “protein alternatives” manufactured by Beyond Meat, Inc., have been found to contain less protein than the company claims.
A complaint filed in the Southern District of Iowa accuses the company of misrepresenting protein in nine products. The plaintiffs argue that Beyond Meat, Inc., miscalculated and overstated the protein content and quality in nine separate products on their labeling, website, and promotional and marketing materials.
Additionally, the plaintiffs note the Beyond Meat, Inc., “misleads consumers into believing that the products provide equivalent nutritional benefits to that found in traditional meat-based products,” the court documents state.
When testing a product for protein content, the “Nitrogen Content Method” is most often used to determine the nitrogen content of the food. Additionally, Beyond Meat, Inc., products must be tested for quality through the Protein Digestibility Amino Acid Correct Score (PDCAAS), which labels the actual amount of digestible protein (in grams) per serving. The PDCAAS also leads to the Daily Reference Value stated as a percentage (DV%) on the product label.
The court documents explain that independent lab testing reveals the DV% of protein in all of the nine products is actually less than the DV% represented by Beyond Meat, Inc. For example, the Beyond Beef Plant-Based Ground 16 oz. Patties claim to have 20 grams of protein per serving and 40% DV. However, the product contains only 19 grams per serving and 7% DV.
The full product list and protein content has been provided.
The plaintiffs have sued the company under five causes of action, including:
• Violation Of The State Consumer Fraud Acts
• Violation Of Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act
• Breach of Express Warranty
• Breach of Implied Warranty
• Unjust Enrichment
The plaintiffs include three consumers from across the U.S. who have purchased Beyond Meat, Inc., products over the last several months. The plaintiffs also claim they would not have purchased the products at the premium price had they known the correct protein content.
