Individuals nationwide are filing lawsuits against baby food manufacturers like Neptune Wellness Solutions who owns Sprout Organics baby food. These lawsuits say the company failed to inform consumers that Sprout baby foods may have toxic levels of heavy metals. Consumption of heavy metals, particularly by infants and toddlers, has been linked to an increased risk of developmental or behavioral disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Multiple lawsuits have been filed nationwide alleging companies like Neptune Wellness knew or should have known that commercial baby food was potentially dangerous for toddlers and babies. Many parents whose children were harmed by Sprout and other baby foods have joined a multidistrict lawsuit called the Baby Food Products Liability Litigation. Parents are fighting to be compensated for the injuries their children endured due to toxic metals in baby and toddler foods.
Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit [2025 Update]
January 6, 2025: FDA Issues Guidance on Action Levels for Lead in Baby Foods
As part of its Closer to Zero initiative, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued guidance on action levels for lead in baby foods. The FDA has set action levels for lead in baby foods at 20 parts per billion (ppb) for single-ingredient root vegetables and dry infant cereals and 10 ppb for fruits, vegetables, mixtures, yogurts, custards, and single-ingredient meats.
December 2, 2024: Baby Food Products Liability MDL Grows to 75 Lawsuits
MDL#: 3101 – In RE: Baby Food Products Liability Litigation grew to 75 lawsuits, representing a 44% increase from the previous month. Due to the widespread number of people who have used commercial baby food products, it is expected that the MDL will continue to grow significantly throughout 2025.
August 16, 2024: Baby Food Products Liability MDL Grows to 31 Claims
There are now 31 pending lawsuits in the baby food products liability litigation out of the Northern District of California. With more plaintiffs coming forward alleging commercial baby food products, like those manufactured by Sprout Organic, contain dangerous levels of heavy metals that may increase a child’s risk of developing autism spectrum disorder.
May 16, 2024: Leadership and Steering Committee Appointed in Baby Food Product Liability Litigation
Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley has appointed leadership and a steering committee in MDL#: 3101 – In RE: Baby Food Products Liability Litigation. The leadership and steering committee will coordinate the scheduling and conduct of discovery, coordinate trial teams for bellwether trials, and conduct settlement negotiations.
April 15, 2024: Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation Issues Transfer Order
The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) issued a transfer order centralizing pending litigation to the Northern District of California. It is expected that additional lawsuits will be filed in the coming weeks and months as more plaintiffs come forward. Lawsuits can potentially be added to MDL-3101 – In RE: Baby Food Products Liability Litigation.
About the Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit:
Understanding the Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit
2021 Congressional Report: Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit Finding and Insights
Toxic Metals Found in Sprout Baby Food Lawsuits
Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit Products With Heavy Metals
Studies Linking Autism to Baby Food Consumption
Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit’s Response to Toxic Metal Allegations in Baby Food
Federal Government’s Initiatives to Eliminate Heavy Metals in Baby Food
Eligibility Criteria for the Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit
Evidence Needed to File a Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit
What Damages Can I Recover in the Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit?
How to File a Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit
Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit Settlement and Payout Amounts
Statute of Limitations and Deadlines to File a Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit
Understanding the Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit
Lawsuits are being filed against Sprout Organics (Neptune Wellness Solutions), alleging many of its products contain dangerous levels of toxic heavy metals, including arsenic, lead, mercury, and cadmium. Early childhood exposure to these heavy metals has been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism and ADHD.
A 2021 Congressional Report found that most commercial baby food products contained high levels of heavy metals, including those manufactured by Sprout Foods, Inc. (Sprout Organic Foods, who was later acquired by Neptune). According to the report, released on February 4, 2021, Sprout Organic Foods refused to cooperate with the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee investigation.
As of January 2025, the litigation against baby food manufacturers, such as Sprout Organics, is ongoing. Plaintiffs are presenting evidence that exposure to heavy metals may be connected to significant developmental disorders. Sprout Organics has responded, saying that they have vetted third-party laboratories, finding one that meets internal and external standards. Parents of children diagnosed with autism who consumed baby food products for at least six months are encouraged to seek counsel to determine their legal options.
2021 Congressional Report: Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit Finding and Insights
In 2021, a U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee found that most commercial baby food products were contaminated with toxic levels of heavy metals. These heavy metals included arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury.
A congressional report issued on February 4, 2021, noted that Sprout Organics was one of several baby food manufacturers that failed to respond to requests for internal documents and testing results. The Subcommittee determined that the manufacturers’ refusal to cooperate with its investigation might be obscuring even higher levels of heavy metals than those detected in other products.
Following the issuance of the first report, the manufacturers that had originally declined to provide internal testing results began cooperating with the Subcommittee. A second report was issued on September 29, 2021. The report found that Sprout, along with other baby manufacturers, generally tested ingredients instead of finished products. It noted that Sprout’s testing practices appeared to be “the most reckless” among the baby food manufacturers.
The report recommended that the FDA issue maximum heavy metal levels and mandate finished product testing. It also recommended that the industry voluntarily phase out toxic ingredients.
Toxic Metals Found in Sprout Baby Food Lawsuits
Several toxic heavy metals were found in Sprout Organics baby food products. These metals included arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury. In some instances, more than one heavy metal was detected in commercial baby food products on American shelves. While these metals naturally occur in the environment and may be absorbed by plants from soil and water, there is some evidence that manufacturers have failed to mitigate the presence of these toxins.
Heavy metals detected in baby food products:
- Arsenic
- Lead
- Cadmium
- Mercury
Sprout Organics acknowledges the presence of heavy metals in its products but claims to have implemented additional testing processes to minimize the levels.
Arsenic
A 2019 Healthy Babies Bright Futures report found that there were heavy metals in 95% of the baby food products they tested. Arsenic, in particular, was detected in 73% of the commercial baby food products. Inorganic arsenic is ranked as the substance that poses the most significant risk to human health, according to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). Exposure to arsenic can cause neurological and immunological effects.
Lead
The 2019 Healthy Babies Bright Futures study detected lead in 94% of commercial baby products tested. Lead is listed as the substance that poses the second-most potential risk to human health, according to the ASTDR. Lead exposure can cause delayed puberty, behavioral problems, and decreased cognitive performance.
Cadmium
Cadmium was detected in 75% of baby food products tested in the 2019 Health Babies Bright Futures study. Cadmium exposure has been associated with decreased IQ and an increased risk of developing ADHD.
Mercury
Mercury presents a significant risk to human health. Despite this, many baby food manufacturers do not test their ingredients or final products for the toxin. Mercury was detected in 32% of commercial baby food products tested.
Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit Products With Heavy Metals
Multiple studies have shown that commercial baby food products like those manufactured by Sprout Organics are tainted with one or more toxic heavy metals. Heavy metals present in baby food products include arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury. Sprout demonstrated minimal testing requirements for its ingredients, only requiring suppliers to test once per year. Compared with other baby food manufacturers, Sprout Organics provided very little information about the heavy metals in their products.
Studies Linking Autism to Baby Food Consumption
Several studies have linked autism to baby food consumption. It is believed that the heavy metals present in baby food products may increase a baby’s risk of developing autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders. Affected individuals are encouraged to consult with an attorney about their legal options if their child was diagnosed with autism after consuming baby food products.
Association Between Heavy Metals Exposure and Child Autistic Disorder
In an “Association between heavy metals exposure (cadmium, lead, arsenic, mercury) and child autistic disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis,” researchers investigated the association between exposure to certain heavy metals and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children.
The study, published in Frontiers in Pediatrics in July 2023, found a significant association between heavy metal exposure and autism. Higher levels of specific heavy metals, such as arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury, were found in patients with ASD compared to healthy control groups. Potential sources of exposure include environmental pollutants and industrial processes.
Investigating the Role of Food Pollutants in Autism Spectrum Disorder
In “Investigating the role of food pollutants in autism spectrum disorder: a comprehensive review,” the authors investigated the link between food pollutants and the development of autism. The study, published in Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology in October 2024, found elevated levels of certain heavy metals in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. It is believed that exposure to these metals may contribute to neurodevelopmental issues, including ASD. Because artificial colors, preservatives, and flavor enhancers may contain heavy metals, consuming these things may worsen autism symptoms. It is recommended that individuals with autism avoid foods with these contaminants.
Toxic Heavy Metal Content of Infant and Toddler Foods and Evaluation of United States Policy
“A Narrative Review of Toxic Heavy Metal Content of Infant and Toddler Foods and Evaluation of United States Policy,” published in Frontiers in Nutrition in 2022, assessed the prevalence of arsenic, lead, mercury, and cadmium in baby and toddler foods throughout the U.S. It also evaluated current U.S. policies on the issue. The study determined that not only could early exposure to heavy metals increase a person’s risk for developing neurodevelopmental delays and chronic diseases but it also found that current regulations in the U.S. may be inadequate to protect infants and toddlers from heavy metal exposure.
Association of Autism With Toxic Metals
In an “Association of autism with toxic metals: A systematic review of case-control studies,” researchers evaluated the relationship between autism and exposure to toxic heavy metals. The study, published in 2021 in Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior found higher concentrations of arsenic, lead, mercury, cadmium, and other heavy metals in blood and hair samples of children with ASD. It was determined that reducing the burden of these toxic metals in children with ASD may be an effective therapeutic strategy.
Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit’s Response to Toxic Metal Allegations in Baby Food
Sprout Organics has had a mixed response to the allegations that their baby food products contain toxic levels of heavy metals. According to the initial 2021 congressional report, Sprout refused to cooperate with the Subcommittee’s investigation. The manufacturer did not provide internal testing results or documentation on its products despite requests. After the release of the report, the company provided limited information about their testing practices.
As reported in the second congressional report, Sprout Organics only required its suppliers to test ingredients once per year. The Subcommittee called this some of the most reckless practices in the industry.
As indicated on its website, Sprout Organics acknowledges that heavy metals may be present in its products but is the result of natural processes. The company said that it has vetted third-party laboratories to meet proficiency levels. The company now provides product QR codes that link to test results.
Federal Government’s Initiatives to Eliminate Heavy Metals in Baby Food
In response to findings from the Subcommittee and other research, state and federal regulators have taken action to eliminate heavy metals in baby food products. These initiatives are designed to promote transparency and reduce the risk of heavy metal exposure.
State and federal initiatives to reduce toxic metals in baby food products:
- Baby Food Safety Act of 2024: The Baby Food Safety Act of 2024 was introduced by Senator Klobuchar in May of 2024. The Act, if passed, would allow the FDA to set action levels for heavy metals in baby food products and would require manufacturers to regularly test their products and maintain records of the test results.
- FDA’s Closer to Zero Initiative: According to the FDA’s Closer to Zero initiative, action levels for baby food products with heavy metals are expected to be set over the next several months. The initiative, launched in 2021, was designed to help reduce children’s exposure to the toxic substances.
- California Assembly Bill 899 (AB-899): In October 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom signed California Assembly Bill 899 into law. The bill requires monthly testing of baby food products beginning January 2025. Additionally, baby food manufacturers must post internal testing data online for consumers.
Eligibility Criteria for the Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit
Individuals hoping to file a Sprout Organics baby food lawsuit must meet certain eligibility requirements. The best way to determine whether you meet the eligibility criteria necessary to file a lawsuit is to consult with an experienced attorney.
Eligibility criteria for a Sprout Organics baby food lawsuit:
- Age: Child must have been born on or after January 1, 2007.
- Baby Food: Child must have consumed a qualifying baby food product for at least six months. Qualifying baby food products include those manufactured by Gerber, Parent’s Choice, Earth’s Best Organic, Sprout Organics, HappyFAMILY, or HappyBABY.
- Autism Diagnosis: Child must have been diagnosed with autism before the age of 14.
Who Would Be Excluded From the Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit?
While many parents of children who were diagnosed with autism may qualify for a Sprout Organics baby food lawsuit, there are some exclusions. To determine if you are eligible for a baby food lawsuit, it is recommended that you speak to an attorney as early in the process as possible.
Exclusions from the Sprout baby food lawsuit:
- Preterm birth (before 37 weeks)
- Low birth weight (less than 5.5 pounds)
- Born before 2007
- Diagnosed with autism after 14
- Consumed baby food products for less than six months
- Diagnosed with certain syndromes or conditions
- Specific health or pregnancy complications
- Involvement in related litigation
- Advanced parental age at conception
Evidence Needed to File a Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit
To file a successful Sprout Organics claim, individuals must provide substantial evidence. Evidence needed to file a Sprout baby food lawsuit may include your child’s neurodevelopmental assessments, financial records showing proof of purchase, and any diagnosis from a health care provider.
Evidence to help support your claim:
- Autism diagnosis
- Neurodevelopmental assessments
- Proof of purchase
- Receipts
- Bank statements
- Loyalty program records
- Documentation of consumption frequency and duration
- Proof of product labels
- Marketing materials
- Hair or blood samples
- Food diaries
- Growth charts
- Family or genetic history records
What Damages Can I Recover in the Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit?
Recoverable damages in a Sprout baby food lawsuit may include economic and non-economic losses. Affected individuals may receive compensation for past and future medical costs, lost wages, loss of quality of life, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.
Depending on the extent of the injuries, plaintiffs may also be entitled to compensation for home modifications, assistive devices, attorney’s fees and costs, and childcare expenses. In limited cases, a court may provide allocations for special needs trusts or wrongful death damages.
How to File a Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit
There are several steps to file a Sprout baby food product lawsuit. The most important thing is to consult an experienced attorney who can help determine whether you meet the eligibility requirements to file a claim and will help you navigate the legal process.
Steps to file a Sprout baby food product lawsuit:
- Consult with a qualified attorney: The first step in a Sprout Organics baby food lawsuit is to consult with a qualified attorney. An attorney can help walk you through the process and determine whether you have a valid claim for damages.
- Collect the evidence necessary to file a claim: Evidence that may help to substantiate your claim includes your child’s medical records, financial records proving the purchase of qualifying products, and neurodevelopmental assessments.
- File the claim: Once the necessary evidence is collected, your attorney will file the claim in the appropriate courthouse. The attorney will ensure that all legal requirements are met, including that the claim is filed within the statute of limitations.
Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit Settlement and Payout Amounts
While Sprout baby food lawsuits are in their infancy, estimated settlement and payout amounts are expected to range between $500,000 and $1.5 million. However, there are several factors that may affect the potential value of your case, including past and future medical expenses, the impact on the child’s quality of life, and whether the child’s injuries were permanent. It is imperative to consult with a toxic exposure lawyer for case-specific estimates.
Statute of Limitations and Deadlines to File a Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit
The statute of limitations in a Sprout baby food lawsuit is state-specific but typically ranges from 1 to 6 years, starting from the date of injury or discovery of the link between baby food and autism. There may also be potential extensions for minors or if new research solidifies the link between heavy metal in baby food products and autism. An attorney can help you understand state-specific deadlines and will ensure that your claim is filed timely.
Contact a Sprout Baby Food Lawsuit Lawyer
If your child was diagnosed with autism after consuming Sprout baby food products for at least six months, you may have a valid claim for damages. The attorneys at King Law have decades of experience handling complex litigation claims, including toxic exposure and product liability lawsuits. Aggrieved individuals are encouraged to contact King Law to schedule an initial consultation to determine whether they qualify for a lawsuit.