Class Action Against Nestlé’s Glucerna Over Blood Sugar Claims Moves Forward
A federal judge in California has ruled that a proposed class-action lawsuit against Nestlé USA can proceed, alleging the company’s Glucerna products mislead consumers by claiming to help manage blood sugar levels for people with diabetes.
The court determined that the plaintiffs presented sufficient evidence at this stage that the “help manage blood sugar” statement on Glucerna labels could be deceptive. U.S. District Judge Jon S. Tigar allowed key claims under California consumer protection laws to advance, though he dismissed other claims related to implied warranties and unjust enrichment.
Filed in 2023, the suit alleges that Nestlé’s labeling and marketing misrepresent Glucerna’s ability to regulate blood sugar, with plaintiffs arguing that the products contain carbohydrates and sugars that could actually spike glucose levels. The case hinges on whether consumers are misled into believing that Glucerna has a clinically significant blood sugar-lowering effect compared to other nutritional drinks.
Glucerna, a leading brand in nutritional products developed specifically for diabetics, generated global sales of over $1 billion in recent years. Its branding has positioned it as a science-backed solution designed for glycemic control, a cornerstone in diabetic nutrition management.
Nestlé maintains that its labeling complies with FDA guidelines and claims the products are accurately marketed as supportive of blood sugar management when used as directed. The company had sought full dismissal of the suit, arguing the label statements are consistent with the product’s nutritional profile and intended usage.
The decision to move the case forward could have broader implications for functional food and beverage brands, particularly those operating in the medical nutrition and health-focused segments. As consumers grow more discerning and regulatory scrutiny intensifies, health claims on packaging are likely to face heightened legal risk and demand for substantiation.
This development underscores the importance of transparency and scientific backing for functional claims in the FMCG space, especially in categories like diabetic nutrition, where regulatory and consumer expectations are high.