Full Breakdown
David Protein Bars Lawsuit Dismissed Amid Controversy Over Nutrition Claims
4/1/2026, 5:13:17 AM
Overview of the Lawsuit and Dismissal
In January 2023, a class-action lawsuit was filed against the company behind David protein bars, alleging that the products misrepresented their calorie and fat content. The lawsuit claimed that independent lab tests indicated the bars contained approximately 400% more fat and 80% more calories than advertised. The controversy surrounding the bars, which have gained popularity among wellness influencers, drew comparisons to the film "Mean Girls," where a character discovers that supposedly healthy snacks are contributing to weight gain. On March 30, 2023, the lawsuit was voluntarily dismissed, although the reasons for this decision remain unclear.
Claims and Defense
The lawsuit accused David of misleading customers and violating FDA regulations. Testing conducted by an accredited laboratory reportedly found that the bars contained between 263 and 275 calories, significantly higher than the 150 calories claimed on the packaging. Additionally, the fat content was alleged to be between 11.76 and 13.52 grams, compared to the stated 2 to 2.5 grams. Peter Rahal, co-founder of David, defended the accuracy of the nutrition labeling, asserting that it complies with FDA requirements. He explained that the calorie count is based on the calories absorbed by the body, specifically referencing the ingredient esterified propoxylated glycerol (EPG), which is resistant to digestion and yields fewer calories than typical fats.
Ingredient Controversy
EPG, a modified plant-based fat, has been central to the controversy. Rahal stated that the ingredient allows for lower fat grams on the label due to its unique properties. Registered dietitian Amy Goodson noted that EPG is not digested in the same way as traditional fats, which can lead to confusion regarding its caloric contribution. Rahal criticized the lawsuit as "frivolous," claiming that the plaintiffs miscalculated the calorie content and misunderstood FDA regulations regarding EPG.
Criticism and Ongoing Challenges
Despite the dismissal of the lawsuit, David has faced ongoing scrutiny regarding its use of EPG. In May 2023, three former clients of Epogee, the company that produces EPG, accused David of antitrust violations related to exclusive access to the ingredient. David responded by asserting that the former clients were responsible for their own contractual issues. Nevertheless, the brand continues to expand, with Rahal indicating plans to launch additional products in the near future.
Official Statements
Following the dismissal of the lawsuit, David released a statement expressing satisfaction with the resolution and reaffirming confidence in their nutrition labeling. Rahal reiterated, “David is 150 calories,” emphasizing the brand's commitment to transparency and accuracy in its product information.
Verbatim Quotes
- “No one is getting Regina Georged,” — Peter Rahal, Co-founder of David
- “We stand behind the accuracy of our product labeling, which complies with FDA requirements for measuring and reporting nutritional content.” — Peter Rahal, Co-founder of David
- “It rests on a flawed and misleading interpretation of how calories are determined for certain ingredients under U.S. food labeling regulations,” — Peter Rahal, Co-founder of David
The dismissal of the lawsuit does not eliminate the questions surrounding David protein bars, particularly regarding the implications of their unique ingredients and the accuracy of their nutritional claims.
