Clif Bar & Company, known for its popular energy and nutrition bars, has agreed to pay a $12 million settlement in response to allegations of misleading health claims on its packaging.
The lawsuit, filed in 2018, accused the company of marketing its bars as healthy while they contained high levels of added sugar.
If you’ve bought Clif Bars or Clif Kid ZBars in the past, you may be eligible for compensation. Here’s a detailed guide to the settlement and how you can claim your share.
Why Is Clif Bar Paying $12 Million?
The lawsuit alleged that Clif Bar falsely marketed its products as healthy, using phrases like “Nutrition for Sustained Energy” and “Nourishing Kids in Motion.” Despite these claims, the bars reportedly contain up to 37% of their calories from added sugars, which can negatively impact health.
The settlement does not mean that Clif Bar admitted to any wrongdoing. However, the company agreed to settle the case to avoid lengthy legal battles. As part of the settlement, Clif Bar will also update its product packaging to provide more transparency about its sugar content.
Who Can Claim Compensation?
You may be eligible for compensation if you purchased Clif Bars or Clif Kid ZBars during these time periods:
- California and New York Residents: Between April 19, 2014, and March 31, 2023.
- Residents of Other States: Between March 31, 2019, and March 31, 2023.
The eligible products include:
- Clif Bars labeled as “Nutrition for Sustained Energy.”
- Clif Kid ZBars featuring claims like “No High Fructose Corn Syrup” and “Nourishing Kids in Motion.”
How Much Compensation Can You Get?
The amount you can receive depends on how many bars you purchased and whether you have proof of purchase:
| Number of Bars Purchased | Without Proof of Purchase | With Proof of Purchase |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 30 bars | $5 | $15 |
| 31 to 60 bars | $10 | $15 |
| Over 60 bars | $15 | $15 for the first 60 bars + $0.25 for each additional bar (up to $50 total) |
The final payout amounts may vary depending on the number of claims submitted.
How to File a Claim
Eligible consumers can submit their claims by following these steps:
- Fill Out the Claim Form: Visit the official settlement website and complete the form online, or download a PDF version to fill out and mail.
- Provide Details: Share your purchase information, such as the number of bars bought.
- Submit Proof (Optional): If available, attach receipts or other proof of purchase for higher compensation.
- Submit Before the Deadline: The deadline for filing a claim is February 1, 2025. If filing by mail, your documents must be postmarked by this date.
Important Deadlines
- Exclusion/Objection Deadline: October 22, 2024
- Final Approval Hearing: November 14, 2024
- Claim Submission Deadline: February 1, 2025
Why This Settlement Matters
The Clif Bar settlement highlights the importance of truth in advertising, especially for food products marketed as healthy. Misleading labels can misguide consumers into making unhealthy choices.
By agreeing to this settlement, Clif Bar is not only compensating affected customers but also committing to more transparent packaging.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve purchased Clif Bars or Clif Kid ZBars during the eligibility period, don’t miss the opportunity to claim your share of the $12 million settlement. The process is simple, and you may receive up to $50, depending on your purchases and documentation.
This case serves as a reminder to always scrutinize food packaging claims. By holding companies accountable, consumers can push for higher standards in the food industry.
Head to the official settlement website today to check your eligibility and file your claim before the February 2025 deadline.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
Filza specializes in simplifying financial topics for everyday readers. Whether breaking down Canada’s tax guides or U.S. benefits like SNAP and VA Disability, Filza’s relatable writing style ensures readers feel confident and informed. Follow her insights on LinkedIn or reach out via email at shewrites.health@gmail.com.
