If you bought a Clif Bar in recent years, you might be entitled to compensation. The popular protein bar company, Clif Bar & Co., has agreed to a $12 million settlement following a class-action lawsuit alleging that its labels misled consumers about the nutritional benefits of its products.
What’s the Settlement About?
Clif Bar & Co. has settled the case Ralph Milan et al. v. Clif Bar & Co. for $12 million. The lawsuit claimed that labels on Clif Bars and Clif Kid ZBars misled consumers by suggesting the bars were healthier than they actually are, with particular concern over high added sugar content that wasn’t prominently disclosed.
Consumers nationwide who bought these products between March 31, 2019, and March 31, 2023, may be eligible for a portion of this settlement. If you purchased Clif Bars or Clif Kid ZBars in California or New York, you may qualify for compensation for purchases dating as far back as April 19, 2014.
Why Was There a Class-Action Lawsuit?
The lawsuit, filed in April 2018, claimed that the nutritional labels on Clif Bars and Clif Kid ZBars didn’t adequately disclose high added sugar content. Marketing phrases such as “Nutrition for Sustained Energy” (Clif Bars) and “No High Fructose Corn Syrup” (Clif Kid ZBars) were identified in the suit as potentially misleading. These statements, the plaintiffs argued, created the impression that the bars were wholesome, nutritious options when up to 37% of their calories actually came from added sugars.
Despite denying these allegations, Clif Bar agreed to settle the case. Under the terms, the company will also update product packaging to clarify the added sugar content and will maintain these changes for at least 24 months.
How to File a Claim for Compensation
If you bought Clif Bars or Clif Kid ZBars within the eligible dates, you may submit a claim online through the class-action settlement website. Proof of purchase is not required, making the process straightforward for most customers. The payment amount you receive will depend on the number of bars you purchased:
$5 for up to 30 bars
$10 for 31 to 60 bars
$15 for more than 60 bars
However, if you can provide proof of purchase, you’re eligible for $15 for the first 60 bars plus $0.25 for each additional bar, up to a maximum payout of $50.
To submit a claim:
Visit the class-action website.
Click on “Submit a Claim” and complete the online form, which will ask for your name, contact details, and information about your Clif Bar and Clif Kid ZBars purchases.
Alternatively, download, print, and mail a PDF claim form from the website.
Note: Only one claim form per household is allowed.
Claim Submission Deadline
To qualify for compensation, you must submit your claim online or postmark mailed documents by November 25, 2024.
What’s Next for Clif Bar?
In addition to the $12 million settlement payout, Clif Bar has agreed to update its packaging for both Clif Bars and Clif Kid ZBars, addressing the added sugar content on labels. These changes are intended to stay for at least 24 months or as long as 10% or more of a bar's calories come from added sugars, providing greater transparency for consumers.
If you think you qualify for this settlement, don’t wait—take action by filing your claim today to ensure you receive compensation.