Celsius Faces Class Action Over 'Health-Washing' Claims

A new federal lawsuit argues that Celsius Holdings Inc. spent years convincing consumers its energy drinks offered specific physiological benefits that the products did not actually deliver. The complaint, filed this week in a U.S. District Court in Washington, seeks to certify a class of buyers who purchased the beverages under the impression that they would accelerate metabolism or burn body fat.

Annabelle Nielsen, the lead plaintiff, claims she suffered financial harm because she paid a premium for what she believed were health-enhancing products. She argues that had she known the claims were exaggerated, she would have bought a cheaper alternative. The suit describes this practice as 'healthwashing,' a strategy where companies place broad wellness promises on the front of a can while using small print on the back to limit liability.

Nielsen specifically points to a can of Astro Vibe-flavored Celsius, which displays the phrases 'accelerates metabolism' and 'burns body fat.' The packaging features cartoon icons of a person running, biking, and meditating. The complaint notes that the company also markets ingredients like ginger root and green tea extract to support these wellness narratives.

The legal documents contrast these front-of-pack claims with the disclaimer printed in tiny lettering on the back. That text states that Celsius alone does not produce weight loss without a healthy diet and moderate exercise. The suit also highlights the company's claim that its drinks have thermogenic properties, a scientific term for heat production. The drinks contain between 200 and 270 milligrams of caffeine, an amount equivalent to nearly three cups of coffee.

The complaint cites a 2025 statement from Celsius CEO John Fieldly, who told investors the company was born in gyms and health clubs and that its products deliver clinically proven fat-burning and metabolism acceleration. Nielsen argues that Celsius funded and published studies that were misleading to the average consumer, even though the company website advises customers to consult a doctor and limit intake to two cans per day.

A Celsius spokesperson told the New York Post that the company stands behind its peer-reviewed clinical studies, which were previously approved by the Better Business Bureau’s National Advertising Division. The spokesperson stated that the products are clearly labeled and exceed FDA requirements. The lawsuit adds a new legal front for the Boca Raton, Florida-based company, which holds the second largest energy drink portfolio in the United States.

The company is also under scrutiny from state regulators. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton opened an investigation in June into the packaging and marketing of Alani Nu, a Celsius brand marketed to teens. The product contains 200 milligrams of caffeine in a 12-ounce can. Celsius said it would cooperate with the probe but disagreed with Paxton's characterization of the product.