Global infant formula recall over toxin; Nestlé criticized for “unacceptable” delay
Nestlé recalled SMA and other infant formula brands (e.g. Guigoz, Nidal, Beba, Alfamino) in 60+ countries after batches were found to contain cereulide, a bacterial toxin that can cause vomiting and stomach cramps. Austrian authorities called it the largest product recall in the company’s history (800+ products, 10+ factories). FoodWatch accused Nestlé and Dutch authorities of a “serious breakdown” in traceability, saying nearly a month passed before the global public recall was announced. Nestlé said there were no confirmed illnesses and recalled “out of an abundance of caution”; analysts disputed the company’s claim that impact was below 0.5% of sales, with Jefferies estimating about US$1.3 billion exposure.
Nestlé detected toxin in infant formula at Dutch factory; waited ~10 days before alerting authorities
Routine checks at Nestlé’s Dutch plant at the end of November 2025 detected very low levels of cereulide (a bacterial toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhoea) after new equipment was installed. Le Monde reported that the company waited about 10 days for an internal “health-risk analysis” before informing regulators. Nestlé informed Dutch and European authorities on 9–10 December and began a precautionary recall of 25 batches in 16 European countries. The full global recall was not announced until January 2026. Nestlé later acknowledged the delay. French authorities opened an investigation into two infant deaths in December–January; Nestlé said no link to its products had been established.
Nestlé dismissed from baby food heavy metals class action in California
A federal court in California granted Nestlé USA’s motion to dismiss claims by Georgia plaintiffs in a baby food products liability case. The suit had alleged harmful levels of heavy metals in baby food. The court dismissed for failure to state a claim under Georgia products liability law.
Class action accuses Nestlé of deceptively marketing Carnation Breakfast Essentials as nutritious
A consumer filed a proposed class action in California federal court (Eastern District) against Nestlé Health Science, alleging the company deceptively markets Carnation Breakfast Essentials as a nutritious “breakfast essential” rich in protein when the drink is primarily sugar and water. The complaint (Testori v. Nestlé Health Science US Holdings Inc.) states that each serving has 12 grams of added sugar (about 24% of the daily value) but only 10 grams of protein, and that the leading ingredients are water and glucose. Plaintiffs assert violations of California’s Consumers Legal Remedies Act, False Advertising Law, and Unfair Competition Law, plus fraud and unjust enrichment, and argue that FDA and FTC guidance bars touting protein while downplaying high sugar content. Nestlé has denied wrongdoing.
Nestlé announces 16,000 job cuts under new CEO, citing automation and efficiency
Nestlé said it would cut 16,000 jobs (about 6% of its global workforce) over two years under new CEO Philipp Navratil, who took over in September 2025. The plan included roughly 12,000 white-collar and 4,000 manufacturing and supply-chain positions. The company cited automation and operational efficiency, targeting about 1 billion Swiss francs in annual savings, and stated it must “change faster” with a stronger performance mindset.
New US lawsuit filed against Nestlé over child labour in cocoa supply chain
A lawyer in Washington D.C. filed a new lawsuit against Nestlé over child labour in its cocoa supply chain, framing the claims under a local consumer protection law. The case came four years after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Nestlé could not be held liable for “aiding and abetting” child slavery in cocoa under the Alien Tort Statute.
Federal judge remands child labor deception case against Nestlé to state court
Judge Beryl A. Howell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia ruled that Nestlé USA failed to establish federal jurisdiction in a child labor deception case and remanded it to state court. The suit alleged Nestlé misrepresented labor practices in its cocoa supply chain. Nestlé had argued the case should stay in federal court because compliance costs would total an estimated $52 billion, exceeding the $75,000 amount-in-controversy threshold for diversity jurisdiction. The court rejected that theory, consistent with a March 2025 ruling in a related case (International Rights Advocates v. Mars Inc. et al.) that representative actions under the D.C. Consumer Protection Procedures Act cannot aggregate damages by defendants' total compliance costs.
Nestlé continues to report federal lobbying in the United States; full-year 2025 totals will appear on OpenSecrets as quarterly disclosure reports are filed. The Farm Bill governs agriculture, SNAP, and federal nutrition programs; in recent years the company has lobbied on the Farm Bill, federal milk marketing orders, food labeling (including plant-based), WIC and nutrition programs, medical nutrition, supply chains, and the Pet Food Modernization Act. Nestlé and subsidiaries such as Nestlé HealthCare Nutrition and Nestlé Purina PetCare have lobbied Congress and federal agencies consistently since at least 1998.
Appeals court sides with Nestlé and other cocoa companies in child slavery case
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit ruled 3–0 in favor of Nestlé, Hershey, Mars, and other chocolate companies, rejecting an appeal in the long-running child slavery lawsuit. Eight Malian plaintiffs had alleged they were forced to work on cocoa farms in Ivory Coast. The court found the link between the companies’ cocoa sourcing and the plaintiffs’ forced labor too general and not tied to specific farms, and dismissed the case. The companies buy an estimated 70% of Ivorian cocoa.
France recalls Nestlé baby meals for excess ochratoxin A; products had been on sale for seven months
French authorities recalled eight ranges of Nestlé complete baby meals after detecting ochratoxin A above regulatory limits. The toxin, produced by mould, can pose kidney and immune risks to infants with prolonged exposure. Foodwatch noted that the affected products had been on sale since September 2024—seven months before the recall was published—raising concerns over delayed disclosure to the public.
Nestlé USA recalls Lean Cuisine and Stouffer’s frozen meals over wood-like material
Nestlé USA announced a voluntary recall of a limited quantity of Lean Cuisine® (Butternut Squash Ravioli, Spinach Artichoke Ravioli, Lemon Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry) and STOUFFER’S® Party Size Chicken Lasagna due to the potential presence of wood-like foreign material. The products were produced between August 2024 and March 2025 and distributed to major U.S. retailers. The company said it acted after consumers reported the issue, including one potential choking incident. Batch codes were published; consumers were advised to return affected product for replacement or refund.
Report reveals French government favored Nestlé in water scandal despite health agency call to suspend operations
Le Monde and Radio France reported on documents showing the French government favored Nestlé's interests over consumer safety in the mineral water case. In January 2023 the head of the General Health Directorate (DGS) had recommended immediately suspending authorization for Nestlé's Vosges water sites and the Perrier plant in Vergèze, citing non-compliant water treatment, microbiologically unsound water at the source, and regulatory and health risks. The recommendations were never applied; Nestlé continued selling the water. Nestlé had already agreed to pay a €2 million fine in 2024 to avoid trial over banned treatment techniques in brands including Perrier and Vittel. The 2025 report highlighted that decisions were followed at the highest levels of the French state, including the Elysée.
Nestlé updates forced labour and responsible recruitment action plan
Nestlé published an updated Salient Issue Action Plan on forced labour and responsible recruitment, identifying 18 priority geographies—including Brazil, Côte d’Ivoire, India, and Vietnam—and outlining steps to train employees on forced labour risks, strengthen supplier compliance, and develop grievance mechanisms for workers and farmers in its supply chains.
Judge refuses to dismiss lawsuit claiming Poland Spring water is not from a spring
A federal judge in Connecticut refused to dismiss a long-running lawsuit claiming Poland Spring bottled water is not actually spring water. U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Alker Meyer ruled on December 31, 2024, that it remains an open question whether the water meets the definition of spring water under the laws of eight states. Plaintiffs had sued Nestlé Waters North America in 2017, alleging the company defrauded consumers by labeling Poland Spring as "Natural Spring Water" or "100% Natural Spring Water" when, they claimed, the historic Maine spring had run dry and the company used man-made springs, pond water, and surface water. Nestlé sold its North American bottled water business (including Poland Spring) to BlueTriton in 2021; the brand is now owned by Primo Brands, which is defending the case and maintains the product complies with FDA regulations.
Nestlé Canada recalls Gerber baby cereal after Cronobacter detected in testing
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced a recall of Nestlé’s Gerber® Oat Banana & Mango Baby Cereal (227 g) after testing found Cronobacter spp. contamination. The product was distributed online and in multiple provinces. Cronobacter infections can be serious or fatal in infants. Nestlé Canada issued a voluntary recall; the CFIA noted that its food safety investigation could lead to further recalls. No confirmed illnesses were reported at the time of the recall.
Nestlé Waters pays €2 million over illegal water drilling and treatment in France
Nestlé Waters reached a judicial settlement with French prosecutors over illegal water drilling and unauthorized treatment of mineral water for its Vittel and Contrex brands. The company had drilled wells without proper permits and used unapproved purification (UV and charcoal filters) despite French law requiring mineral water to be natural. Nestlé paid a €2 million fine, committed €1.1 million to restore local rivers and wetlands, and €516,800 in compensation to environmental groups. The agreement avoided trial; critics said it let the company avoid conviction after years of deception.
Court certifies class action over Nestlé chocolate "sustainably sourced" and "responsibly sourced" labels
A federal court granted class certification in a case brought by consumer Marie Falcone against Nestlé USA over allegedly deceptive labeling of chocolate products. Falcone alleged that Nestlé's packaging displayed claims such as "sustainably sourced," "responsibly sourced," and "improving the lives of cocoa farmers" while the cocoa was in fact harvested on West African plantations using child labor, including child slavery. The lawsuit was filed under California's Consumer Legal Remedies Act and Unfair Competition Law, seeking injunctive relief and refunds. Nestlé had previously lost certification battles in similar cases in Massachusetts and California.
Report finds Nestlé adds sugar to baby food in poorer countries only
Public Eye and IBFAN reported that Nestlé sells infant cereal and follow-up milk with added sugar in developing countries (e.g. Cerelac with up to 7.3g per serving in the Philippines) while selling sugar-free versions in the UK and Germany. Labels in several countries did not list added sugar. WHO recommends zero added sugar for under-2s.
Judge allows class action over Toll House Premier White Morsels "white chocolate" claims to proceed
A federal judge denied Nestlé's motion to dismiss a class action alleging that Toll House Premier White Morsels deceptively market "white chocolate" content and premium ingredients. Plaintiffs claimed the product contains "fake white chocolate" and artificial ingredients despite packaging that emphasizes premium, white chocolate-style quality. The court allowed the lawsuit to proceed, and Nestlé could not "melt" the class action at the dismissal stage.
Consumer sues Nestlé over Perrier water quality and compliance with French and U.S. standards
A New York consumer filed a proposed class action against Nestlé USA claiming the company misbranded its Perrier bottled water. The plaintiff, Kevin O'Rourke, alleged that the French spring water source is contaminated with bacteria and pollutants and requires treatment and filtration that violates French and U.S. mineral water regulations. Nestlé acknowledged that "practices at some of our waters production sites may not be in line with the applicable regulatory framework" while stating that all French production facilities were currently compliant. The lawsuit sought to represent purchasers of Perrier who relied on the "natural" mineral water positioning.
Hundreds of Nestlé workers strike at Toronto chocolate plant over pensions and wages
About 461 Unifor members at Nestlé’s Toronto (Sterling Road) chocolate plant went on strike after rejecting a tentative deal that included a two-year freeze on cost-of-living adjustments and insufficient pension improvements. Workers producing Kit Kat, Aero, Coffee Crisp, and Smarties had previously struck in 2021, 2017, and 2014 over wages, benefits, and a two-tier wage system. The 2024 strike ended May 29 when workers ratified a three-year contract with wage increases, pension improvements, and 14 contract workers promoted to full-time with benefits.
Report links Nestlé palm oil supplier to massive deforestation in Peruvian Amazon
The Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) reported that Ocho Sur, a palm oil supplier to Nestlé, Kellogg’s, and others, had deforested over 130 square kilometers (50 square miles) in Peru’s Ucayali region, much of it since 2012—an area more than twice the size of Manhattan. Most deforestation lacked legal permits. The region is one of the most biodiverse in the Amazon. Nestlé said it investigates such allegations but declined to comment on Ocho Sur specifically.
U.S. lobbying $1,014,763, contributions $96,801 — 2024
Nestlé reported $1,014,763 in federal lobbying spending in 2024 (ranking 722nd among organizations that lobbied) and $96,801 in political contributions in the 2024 election cycle (from employees and affiliated PACs; ranking 6,188 of 40,455 organizations). The Farm Bill authorizes agriculture, SNAP, and nutrition assistance; lobbying focused on the Farm Bill, federal milk marketing orders, food labeling (including plant-based), WIC and federal nutrition programs, medical nutrition, supply chains, and the Pet Food Modernization Act. Top recipients of 2024 cycle contributions included presidential and Senate candidates and party committees. The company has lobbied Congress and federal agencies consistently since at least 1998.
Nestlé recalls infant formula in 12 European countries over Cronobacter risk
Nestlé recalled EXPERT PRO HA 1 infant formula (sold as NAN EXPERT PRO HA 1 in Denmark and Norway, BEBA EXPERT PRO HA 1 in Czech Republic and Slovakia) in Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Sweden. The recall was triggered by the potential presence of Cronobacter sakazakii, which can cause serious illness in young infants. Nestlé said no positive tests or illnesses were reported and described the recall as precautionary. The EU’s Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) carried the notice.
Nestlé acquires majority stake in Grupo CRM (Brazil chocolate); divests Palforzia
Nestlé bought a majority stake in premium chocolate company Grupo CRM in Brazil. It also divested its Palforzia peanut allergy treatment business as part of ongoing portfolio shifts under CEO Mark Schneider.
Nestlé reported $848,000 in federal lobbying expenditures in 2023 (OpenSecrets). The company and its subsidiaries, including Nestlé HealthCare Nutrition and Nestlé Purina PetCare, lobbied Congress and federal agencies on issues such as the Farm Bill, nutrition programs, food labeling, and supply chains. In 2024, lobbying increased to over $1 million.
Nestlé pushes Arizona bill to expand water access for Glendale plant
Nestlé lobbied for Arizona legislation (SB 1660) that would let industrial plants treat wastewater on-site and earn long-term storage credits to draw water from the aquifer, to support its planned $675 million creamer production facility in Glendale. Water utilities, home builders, and the city of Phoenix opposed the bill, arguing it would fragment water management and speed groundwater depletion.
Earth Island adds unfair competition claim in plastic pollution lawsuit against Nestlé and other beverage companies
Earth Island Institute filed an amended complaint in its California state court lawsuit against ten companies, including Nestlé USA (and BlueTriton Brands, formerly Nestlé Waters), Coca-Cola, and PepsiCo, over plastic pollution and recycling claims. The amendment added an unfair competition claim under California law and additional data supporting public nuisance allegations. The suit alleges the companies use unfair and deceptive practices to promote their products and recycling capabilities; plaintiffs have also challenged "100% Recyclable" labeling on bottled water given that many programs cannot recycle caps and labels. The original complaint was filed in 2020.
California orders Arrowhead bottler to stop unauthorized water diversions from San Bernardino National Forest
The State Water Resources Control Board issued a cease-and-desist order requiring BlueTriton Brands (formerly Nestlé Waters North America) to stop diverting water at 10 of 13 points in Strawberry Canyon in the San Bernardino National Forest. The company had drawn water there for decades; an investigation found it lacked valid water rights and had operated during drought on an expired permit. The order limited Arrowhead to a pre-1914 right of 7.26 acre-feet per year. BlueTriton later sued the state challenging the order.
Nestlé USA recalls Toll House cookie dough bars over wood fragments
Nestlé USA voluntarily recalled a limited quantity of NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough “break and bake” bars (16.5 oz) due to the potential presence of wood fragments. Two batches produced in late April 2023 were affected; a small number of consumers had contacted the company about the issue. No illnesses or injuries were reported. The recall was issued “out of an abundance of caution”; consumers could return product to retailers or contact Nestlé for replacement or refund. The FDA later terminated the recall after completion.
Judge denies Nestlé's motion to dismiss "sustainably sourced" chocolate false-advertising class action
The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California denied Nestlé's motion to dismiss a putative class action (Falcone v. Nestlé USA, Inc.) alleging that the company falsely advertised its cocoa as "sustainably" harvested. Plaintiff Marie Falcone had alleged that Nestlé's "Cocoa Plan"—prominently touted as addressing child labor on African cocoa farms—amounted to greenwashing because, she contended, child labor on cocoa farms had worsened. Nestlé argued it had never claimed to have eliminated all child labor and that its materials made clear concerns persist; the court held that interpretative disputes about whether conditions had improved or worsened were for trial, not dismissal. The case later received class certification in 2024.
Nestlé recalls Good Start Soothe infant formula in Canada over Cronobacter
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) posted a recall of Nestlé Good Start Soothe infant formula (942 g) due to possible Cronobacter contamination, which can cause serious infections and be fatal in young babies. The product was sold nationwide; expiry dates extended into July 2024, and the CFIA warned that consumers might have the product at home for future use. Nestlé recalled three batch numbers; no illnesses were confirmed. The CFIA began a food safety investigation that could lead to further recalls.
Nestlé acquires Seattle’s Best Coffee brand from Starbucks
Nestlé added the Seattle’s Best Coffee brand to its portfolio via a deal with Starbucks, extending the global coffee licensing partnership the two companies formed in 2018.
U.S. lobbying and contributions — $60,142 contributions (2022)
In the 2022 election cycle Nestlé and its affiliates reported $60,142 in federal political contributions (OpenSecrets)—about 56% to Democrats and 44% to Republicans, all from individuals. The company reported federal lobbying in 2022 on trade, supply chains, child labor, sustainable supply chains, and COVID-19-related business matters, with activity directed at Congress, the White House, U.S. Trade Representative, Department of Labor, and State Department. Full-year lobbying totals are available on OpenSecrets.
Nestlé USA recalls Toll House edible cookie dough tubs over soft plastic film
Nestlé USA voluntarily recalled a limited quantity of Edible Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough tubs from NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® due to the potential presence of soft plastic film. Three batches produced 1–3 August 2022 were affected; the product was distributed nationwide. The company said a small number of consumers had contacted it about the issue. No illnesses or injuries were reported. Nestlé noted it had “recently initiated a separate and unrelated recall” for Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough (October 2022) and took immediate action in each case.
Nestlé USA recalls Toll House Stuffed cookie dough over white plastic pieces
Nestlé USA voluntarily recalled NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® STUFFED Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough with Fudge Filling due to the potential presence of white plastic pieces. Products were produced between June and September 2022 and distributed in the continental U.S. and Puerto Rico. A small number of consumers had contacted the company; no illnesses or injuries were reported. The FDA later terminated the recall after completion.
48 families file €250 million civil suit against Nestlé France over Buitoni E. coli outbreak
A group of 48 families filed a €250 million civil lawsuit against Nestlé France for gross negligence in connection with an E. coli outbreak linked to Buitoni Fraîch'Up frozen pizzas. Two children died and more than a dozen suffered serious health complications, including haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS); many of the dozens of confirmed cases were in children. French prosecutors had opened a criminal investigation in May 2022 on charges including involuntary manslaughter and breaches of food safety requirements. Former Buitoni factory employees reported serious hygiene failures. Nestlé later reached an out-of-court compensation agreement with victims in March 2023; criminal proceedings continued.
U.S. judge dismisses child slavery lawsuit against Nestlé, Cargill, Hershey, and other cocoa companies
A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit brought by eight former child slaves from Mali under the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act. The plaintiffs said they were trafficked to Ivory Coast and forced to work on cocoa farms without pay, using machetes and pesticides without protection. The court ruled they failed to show a "traceable connection" between the companies and the specific plantations where they worked; the defendants did not monitor "free zones" where most cocoa is produced. Nestlé and other defendants had signed the Harkin-Engel Protocol in 2001 pledging to eliminate child labor by 2005.
California federal court denies Nestlé's motion to dismiss class action over "sustainably sourced" cocoa claims
A federal judge in the Southern District of California denied Nestlé's motion to dismiss a consumer class action alleging the company falsely advertised chocolate as "sustainably sourced" and as "supporting farmers for better chocolate" despite cocoa from West African farms where child and forced labor were alleged. The plaintiff contended that child labor had increased since Nestlé's Cocoa Plan began, making the sustainability and farmer-support claims misleading. The court held that the plaintiff had adequately alleged Nestlé misled consumers; interpretative disputes were for trial. Nestlé argued that increased monitoring had identified more children rather than worsened conditions. The case proceeded and later received class certification (2024).
Earth Island Institute sues BlueTriton (formerly Nestlé Waters) for greenwashing on plastic
Earth Island Institute filed a lawsuit in D.C. Superior Court against BlueTriton Brands (formerly Nestlé Waters North America) under the District’s consumer protection law, alleging false and deceptive marketing. The suit argued BlueTriton marketed itself as “sustainable” and committed to a “waste-free future” while remaining one of the world’s largest producers of single-use plastic bottles. The case survived a motion to dismiss in 2022.
Supreme Court rules 8-1 for Nestlé and Cargill in forced child labor case
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 8-1 in favor of Nestlé USA and Cargill in a 15-year lawsuit brought by six Malian citizens who said they were trafficked to Ivory Coast as child slaves to harvest cocoa. The plaintiffs sued under the Alien Tort Statute. Justice Clarence Thomas, writing for the majority, held that the case improperly sought extraterritorial application of the ATS because the conduct aiding forced labor—training, equipment, cash to farms—occurred in Ivory Coast, not the United States. The ruling limited human-rights suits against U.S. companies for overseas conduct.
Sierra Club and consumers sue BlueTriton, Coca-Cola, and Niagara over "100% Recyclable" plastic bottle claims
The Sierra Club and consumer plaintiffs filed lawsuits in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California against The Coca-Cola Company, BlueTriton Brands (formerly Nestlé Waters North America), and Niagara Bottling, alleging false advertising under the California Environmental Marketing Claims Act and unfair business practices. The suits claimed that "100% Recyclable" labels on plastic water bottles were misleading because bottle labels are often made from plastics that are not recyclable in most programs, a large share of material sent for recycling is lost to contamination, and under 60% of consumers have access to recycling that can process the bottles. Plaintiffs sought to enjoin the claims and, in the consumer case, refunds. BlueTriton had been Nestlé Waters North America until the March 2021 sale.
Nestlé Canada recalled Drumstick Vanilla Chocolate Swirl Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert Cones (4 × 120 mL) due to undeclared milk, posing a serious allergen risk. The CFIA classified it as a Class I recall; one reported reaction was associated with the product. Consumers were advised to discard or return the product.
Over 470 workers strike Nestlé Toronto plant over temp-to-permanent conversions and pensions
More than 470 Unifor members at Nestlé’s Toronto chocolate plant went on strike after contract talks failed. Workers demanded conversion of about 80 temporary contract workers to permanent full-time status—the company had slowed promised annual conversions—and improved pension contributions. The roughly three-week strike ended when workers ratified a deal at 94%, securing wage progression for contract workers (from $17.30 to over $25/hour), permanent status for 80 P0 workers, and $1 annual increases to defined-benefit pension contributions over three years.
Nestlé sells North American water business to BlueTriton for $4.3 billion
Nestlé completed the sale of Nestlé Waters North America to One Rock Capital Partners and Metropoulos & Co. for $4.3 billion. The business was rebranded BlueTriton Brands and included major bottled water brands such as Poland Spring, Pure Life, Deer Park, Ozarka, Ice Mountain, Zephyrhills, Arrowhead, and Splash, plus the ReadyRefresh office delivery service. Nestlé retained its premium international brands (Perrier, S.Pellegrino, Acqua Panna). The deal had been announced in February 2021; Nestlé stated it would focus on international premium waters and healthy hydration.
Florida water board approves permit to pump Ginnie Springs for Nestlé bottling
The Suwannee River Water Management District unanimously approved a permit allowing up to ~984,000 gallons per day to be pumped from Ginnie Springs for bottled water. Nestlé had bought the Ginnie Springs bottling plant in 2019 and contracted with Seven Springs Water Co. for the water. Florida does not charge for the water—only a $115 permit fee was paid. About 19,000 public comments and a 400,000-signature petition opposed the permit; environmental groups sued, arguing that bottling for private profit is not a “beneficial use” and violates the public interest. In October 2023, Administrative Law Judge Francine Ffolkes issued a recommended order upholding the permit, finding Seven Springs had provided “reasonable assurance” the use was beneficial and in the public interest; the water board renewed the permit in December 2023.
Nestlé Prepared Foods recalls pepperoni Hot Pockets over glass and plastic contamination
Nestlé Prepared Foods recalled approximately 762,615 pounds of not-ready-to-eat pepperoni Hot Pockets (12-count Garlic Buttery Crust Pepperoni Pizza Value Packs) due to possible contamination with pieces of glass and hard plastic. The product was produced in November 2020. The company received four consumer complaints, including one report of a minor oral injury. The USDA classified the recall as high risk; consumers were advised not to prepare or consume the product and to return it for a refund.
Nestlé reported $932,000 in federal lobbying expenditures in 2021 (OpenSecrets)—among its higher annual totals. The company has lobbied Congress and federal agencies every year since at least 1998, with subsidiaries such as Nestlé HealthCare Nutrition and Nestlé Purina PetCare also engaged in lobbying. Lobbying dipped in 2022–2023 before rising above $1 million in 2024.
Nestlé recalls Lean Cuisine Baked Chicken meals over plastic pieces
Nestlé USA recalled over 92,000 pounds of Lean Cuisine Baked Chicken with white meat chicken, stuffing, red skin mashed potatoes and gravy after five consumers reported finding hard white plastic pieces in the product. The company determined a plastic conveyor belt had broken during production, contaminating the mashed potatoes. The USDA classified the recall as Class I (high risk—choking or laceration hazard). No injuries or illnesses were reported. Nestlé stated it had identified and fixed the source of contamination.
Michigan upholds Nestlé permit to withdraw 576,000 gallons of groundwater daily for Ice Mountain
Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) dismissed a challenge to Nestlé’s permit to withdraw 576,000 gallons of groundwater per day from White Pine Springs in Osceola County for its Ice Mountain bottled water brand. The permit had been issued in 2018, increasing withdrawals by 60%; the company pays a $200 annual fee. Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians had argued the extraction would harm wetlands and streams. EGLE dismissed on procedural grounds (petitioners should have appealed to circuit court).
U.S. lobbying and contributions — $422,310 contributions (2020)
In the 2020 election cycle Nestlé and its affiliates reported $422,310 in federal political contributions (OpenSecrets)—about 72% to Democrats and 28% to Republicans. About $368,800 came from individuals and $43,250 from PACs. The company also reported federal lobbying in 2020; annual lobbying totals are available on OpenSecrets. Nestlé has lobbied Congress and federal agencies every year since at least 1998.
Earth Island Institute sues Nestlé and other major brands over plastic pollution
Earth Island Institute filed a lawsuit in California state court against ten companies, including Nestlé, Coca-Cola, and PepsiCo, seeking to hold them accountable for plastic pollution. The suit cited public nuisance, breach of warranty, and negligence, and pointed to Break Free From Plastic brand audits showing Coke, Pepsi, and Nestlé alone responsible for 14% of plastic polluting oceans. Nestlé has repeatedly been named a top global plastic polluter in brand audits.
Acquisition of Zenpep (medical nutrition) and further investment in Aimmune
Nestlé acquired Zenpep from Allergan and invested an additional $200 million in Aimmune Therapeutics, continuing its push into medical and specialty nutrition.
Nestlé USA recalls 26 Toll House cookie dough products over rubber pieces
Nestlé USA voluntarily recalled 26 ready-to-bake refrigerated NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® cookie dough products (bars, tubs, and “chubs,” including Holiday Chocolate Chip, Ultimate Chocolate Chip Lovers, and M&M’s varieties) due to the potential presence of food-grade rubber pieces. Products with batch codes 9189 through 9295 were distributed in the continental U.S. and Puerto Rico. Nestlé said it had identified and fixed the source of contamination before the recall; no illnesses or injuries were reported. Consumers were advised to discard affected product and contact Nestlé for refunds.
Nestlé identifies over 18,000 child labourers in cocoa supply chain
Nestlé’s own Child Labor Monitoring and Remediation System (CLMRS) identified more than 18,000 children engaged in “unacceptable” work at cocoa farms supplying the company—including carrying heavy loads (62%) and working with sharp tools (25%). The share of monitored children in hazardous work rose from 17% in 2017 to 23% in 2019. Nestlé and other chocolate makers faced criticism for breaking pledges to end child labor in cocoa; the Washington Post and others reported on conditions in West Africa. After remediation (e.g. education and school-building), the company said 55% of identified children had stopped unacceptable work. A U.S. class action over “sustainably sourced” cocoa (Falcone v. Nestlé) was filed the same year.
Nestlé reported $1,281,000 in federal lobbying expenditures in 2019 (OpenSecrets)—among its higher annual totals. Lobbying focused on food industry issues, environment and Superfund, and trade. The company and its subsidiaries have lobbied Congress and federal agencies every year since at least 1998. Political contributions in the 2020 election cycle (which includes 2019) totaled $422,310.
Major divestments: skin health (Cetaphil, Proactiv), US ice cream (Haagen-Dazs), Herta
Nestlé sold its skin health unit—including Cetaphil and Proactiv—to EQT Partners for 10.2 billion Swiss francs. It sold its US ice-cream business (Haagen-Dazs and others) to Froneri for $4 billion, and sold a majority stake in packaged meat brand Herta to Casa Tarradellas.
Report finds child labor, forced labor, and migrant abuse at Nestlé palm oil suppliers in Malaysia
An investigation documented child labor, forced labor, and migrant worker abuses at palm oil suppliers to Nestlé in Malaysia. The Business & Human Rights Resource Centre published the findings and Nestlé’s response. Labor rights assessments have continued to identify gaps between the company’s commitments and conditions for workers in palm oil supply chains.
$7.2B Starbucks deal; sale of US candy (Butterfinger, Crunch, Baby Ruth) and Gerber Life
Nestlé and Starbucks agreed to a $7.2 billion global licensing deal for packaged coffees and teas. Nestlé sold its US confectionery business (Butterfinger, Crunch, Baby Ruth, etc.) to Ferrero for $2.8 billion and sold Gerber Life Insurance to Western and Southern Financial Group for $1.55 billion.
Nestlé under fire for baby milk formula marketing claims; report finds WHO code violations
The Changing Markets Foundation reported that Nestlé marketed infant milk formulas in 40 countries with claims such as "closest to," "inspired by," and "following the example of" human breastmilk—language that violates WHO guidelines on marketing breast-milk substitutes. The study reviewed over 70 products and found inconsistent ingredients by market: for example, Nestlé used sucrose in South African formulas while marketing Brazilian and Hong Kong versions as sucrose-free "for baby's good health." The Guardian and Financial Times covered the story; the FT headline said Nestlé "knew what it was doing." Nestlé holds about a quarter of the global infant formula market.
U.S. appeals court revives child slavery lawsuit against Nestlé and Cargill
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit reinstated a lawsuit by former child slaves who said they were forced to work on Ivory Coast cocoa farms supplying Nestlé USA and Cargill. The court ruled that plaintiffs could proceed with claims tied to overseas abuses, finding a sufficient connection to U.S. corporate conduct. The case had been dismissed earlier; the revival allowed it to continue toward the Supreme Court, which in 2021 ruled 8–1 for Nestlé and Cargill on extraterritoriality grounds. Separately, a Massachusetts consumer filed a proposed class action in 2018 alleging Nestlé deceptively marketed chocolate while concealing child and slave labor in its cocoa supply chain.
U.S. lobbying and contributions — $88,028 contributions (2018)
In the 2018 election cycle Nestlé and its affiliates reported $88,028 in federal political contributions (OpenSecrets)—about 71% to Democrats and 29% to Republicans. About $62,578 came from individuals and $23,750 from PACs. The company also reported federal lobbying in 2018; annual totals are available on OpenSecrets.
Labor rights assessment finds risks in Nestlé’s Indonesian palm oil supply chain
The Danish Institute for Human Rights published a labor rights assessment of Nestlé’s palm oil supply chain in Indonesia, identifying actual and potential human rights and labor rights risks. Nestlé had commissioned the assessment; the findings highlighted ongoing challenges in ensuring safe and fair conditions for workers in palm oil sourcing.
More than 360 workers strike Nestlé Toronto plant over temp workers and wages
Over 360 Unifor members at Nestlé Canada’s Toronto chocolate plant (Sterling Road) went on strike after contract negotiations broke down. Issues included the use of temporary agency workers doing full-time work at lower wages without pension benefits, and demands for wage and benefit improvements. The same plant had struck in 2014 and 2001 over wages and a two-tier wage system; it would strike again in 2021 and 2024.
Nestlé, Mars, and Hershey accused of breaking palm oil deforestation pledges
The Rainforest Action Network accused Nestlé, Mars, and Hershey of breaking promises to eliminate "conflict palm oil" from deforested Indonesian rainforests. Campaigners said the companies had missed targets and "moved the goalposts when they don't achieve them," despite pledging to end deforestation in their supply chains by 2015. Nestlé was reported to source palm oil from the 2.6-million-hectare Leuser ecosystem through supply chains linked to illegal logging of tropical forest. The Guardian covered the story.
Nestlé pays $200 a year to bottle water near Flint, where tap water was undrinkable
The Guardian reported that Nestlé paid about $200 per year to pump groundwater near Evart, Michigan—roughly two hours from Flint, where residents faced a lead-contamination crisis and undrinkable tap water. The company was pumping nearly 100,000 times the water use of an average Michigan resident and sought to increase its permit to withdraw up to 210 million gallons per year. The contrast between Nestlé's cheap access to groundwater and Flint's unsafe supply drew widespread criticism. Michigan later issued a 2018 permit for Nestlé's Ice Mountain brand (White Pine Springs) allowing 576,000 gallons per day.
Federal judge dismisses child slavery lawsuit against Nestlé and Cargill
A federal judge dismissed a decade-old lawsuit in which former child slaves alleged Nestlé USA and Cargill had facilitated forced labor on Ivory Coast cocoa farms. The court held that the case—brought by foreign plaintiffs over conduct abroad—did not belong in U.S. courts, citing Supreme Court precedent on extraterritorial application of U.S. law. The dismissal was later reversed by the Ninth Circuit in 2018, allowing the case to continue; it eventually reached the Supreme Court, which in 2021 ruled 8–1 for Nestlé and Cargill.
Nestlé admits forced labour and human trafficking in Thai seafood supply chain
Nestlé disclosed that a year-long investigation had found forced labour and human trafficking in its Thai seafood supply chain. The company said migrant workers were unpaid, abused, and trapped on fishing boats and in processing plants; products linked to the tainted supply chain included Fancy Feast cat food. The Guardian reported the admission alongside Nestlé’s continued defence of the child slavery lawsuit over Ivory Coast cocoa. Observers called Nestlé’s Thailand disclosure a rare, proactive step on supply chain accountability.
Supreme Court rejects Nestlé bid to throw out child slavery lawsuit
The U.S. Supreme Court denied Nestlé’s (and Cargill’s) petition to dismiss a lawsuit in which former child slaves from Mali alleged the companies aided and abetted forced labour on Ivory Coast cocoa farms. Plaintiffs argued the firms provided financial and technical support to farmers while aware of child slavery. The court’s refusal to hear the appeal allowed the case to proceed in lower courts; it was later dismissed in 2017, revived by the Ninth Circuit in 2018, and ultimately decided in Nestlé’s favor by the Supreme Court in 2021.
Nestlé Waters North America PAC gives $22,746 to federal candidates
Nestlé Waters North America’s PAC contributed $22,746 to federal candidates in the 2015–2016 election cycle—about 50% to Republicans and 45% to Democrats. Nearly all of the PAC’s spending went directly to candidate contributions. Nestlé also operates a Nestlé USA PAC (Solon, Ohio) for federal campaign giving.
Nestlé discloses forced labour in Thai seafood supply chain; workers sold or lured into slavery
Nestlé published findings from a year-long internal investigation (launched December 2014) into its Thai seafood supply chain. The company reported that migrant workers from Myanmar and Cambodia had been sold or lured by false promises into forced labour catching and processing fish for Nestlé’s suppliers. Workers described violence, minimal food and water, no rest, and debt bondage to labour brokers; some reported deaths at sea and bodies thrown overboard. Nestlé pledged to implement supplier requirements, worker training, third-party audits, and a senior manager to oversee improvements. The disclosure preceded Nestlé’s February 2016 public admission of slavery in the same supply chain.
Maggi noodle ban in India; child labor still found on Nestlé-linked cocoa farms
India banned Maggi noodles over excessive lead and MSG content; the ban was later lifted. A Fair Labor Association report found children under 15 still working on cocoa farms in Ivory Coast supplying Nestlé, despite the company’s earlier pledge to end child labor. The FLA noted limited code awareness among farmers and that most cocoa was sourced outside monitored cooperatives.
Nestlé sells ~8% of L'Oréal back to Bettencourt family
Nestlé agreed to sell about 8% of L'Oréal to the Bettencourt family (L'Oréal's founding family) for roughly $8.2 billion in stock and cash, reducing Nestlé's stake from 31%. The deal began unwinding a decades-long cross-shareholding that had existed since Liliane Bettencourt sold nearly a third of L'Oréal to Nestlé in the 1970s.
Nestlé sold most of its Jenny Craig weight-loss business to private equity firm North Castle Partners. Nestlé had acquired Jenny Craig in 2006 for about $600 million; the 2013 sale price was reported to be below that. The sale was part of Nestlé's shift away from the slimming segment.
Nestlé acquires Pfizer’s infant nutrition unit for $11.9 billion
Nestlé bought Pfizer’s infant nutrition business (brands including SMA, Promil, S-26 Gold) for $11.9 billion—then its largest acquisition. It merged with Nestlé’s existing Gerber, Cerelac, and Nan lines. The unit had about $2.4 billion in sales, mostly in emerging markets.
Nestlé completes sale of Alcon eye care business to Novartis
Nestlé completed the sale of its remaining 52% stake in Alcon to Novartis for $28.3 billion. Novartis had already bought a 25% stake from Nestlé for $11 billion in 2008. The deal gave Novartis roughly 77% of Alcon, the eye care company Nestlé had built up over decades.
Nestlé completes acquisition of Novartis Medical Nutrition for $2.5 billion
Nestlé completed the purchase of Novartis Medical Nutrition on July 1, 2007, for $2.5 billion. The deal brought about 2,000 employees into Nestlé's nutrition division and strengthened its position in healthcare nutrition in more than 40 countries.
Nestlé acquires Gerber from Novartis for $5.5 billion
Nestlé agreed to buy Gerber Products Company, the baby food maker, from Novartis for $5.5 billion. Gerber held about 81% of the U.S. baby food market. The deal, completed in the second half of 2007, made Nestlé the world's largest baby food company. Gerber was expected to generate about $1.95 billion in sales in 2007.
Nestlé acquires Jenny Craig for about $600 million
Nestlé bought the Jenny Craig weight-loss and diet company for approximately $600 million, expanding its presence in the weight-management segment. Nestlé sold most of Jenny Craig to private equity firm North Castle Partners in 2013 at a reported price below the purchase price.
After an initial challenge, the Federal Trade Commission unanimously approved Nestlé's merger with Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream. The deal (announced in June 2002 at $2.4 billion; value about $2.8 billion at approval) combined Nestlé's U.S. ice cream business—including Häagen-Dazs and Crunch—with Dreyer's brands (Edy's, Starbucks ice cream, etc.), creating the largest U.S. supermarket ice cream seller. To secure approval, Dreyer's sold Dreamery, Godiva, and Whole Fruit sorbet to CoolBrands International.
Nestlé completes acquisition of Ralston Purina for $10.3 billion
Nestlé completed its purchase of Ralston Purina, acquiring all outstanding shares for $33.50 per share in cash (enterprise value $10.3 billion). The merger was announced in January 2001 and approved by Ralston shareholders in May. The combined pet care business became Nestlé Purina PetCare Company, based in St. Louis, and brought brands such as Purina, Alpo, Fancy Feast, Friskies, and Tidy Cats under Nestlé.
Nestlé signs Harkin-Engel Protocol pledging to eliminate child labor in cocoa
Nestlé and seven other major chocolate companies signed the Harkin-Engel Protocol, a voluntary agreement negotiated after media and congressional pressure exposed child slavery and trafficking on West African cocoa farms. The industry pledged to eliminate the worst forms of child labor in cocoa from Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana by 2005 and to comply with ILO Convention 182. The deadline was repeatedly missed; targets were later reframed to a 70% reduction in child labor by 2020, then 2025.
Internal documents show alleged code breaches; “Milking Profits” report
Former Nestlé medical delegate Syed Aamar Raza publicized internal company documents in the report “Milking Profits” (The Network), alleging Nestlé breached the WHO code on marketing breast milk substitutes—including gifts to doctors, direct marketing to mothers, and free formula supplies. Raza said a baby’s death in Sialkot, Pakistan in 1997 (after a doctor told him “Because of people like you”) prompted him to act. Nestlé denied the allegations.
UK ad regulator rules Nestlé claim on “ethical” formula marketing went too far
The UK Advertising Standards Authority upheld a complaint against Nestlé over a 1996 newspaper ad claiming the company had marketed infant formula “ethically and responsibly” since 1981. The ASA found Nestlé could not adequately support the claim and that the advertisement “went too far.” Nestlé appealed the ruling.
“Cracking the Code” report accuses Nestlé of breaching WHO infant formula code
The Interagency Group on Breastfeeding Monitoring (Unicef, Save the Children, and others) published “Cracking the Code,” accusing Nestlé, Gerber, Mead Johnson, Wyeth, and Nutricia of regularly violating the WHO international code on marketing breast milk substitutes. Research in Thailand, Bangladesh, South Africa, and Poland cited direct marketing to mothers, free formula supplies, and gifts to doctors. Infant formula makers called the report biased.
International boycott of Nestlé relaunched over infant formula marketing
The Nestlé boycott was relaunched after campaigners concluded the company had not fully stopped unethical promotion of infant formula in developing countries. The boycott had been suspended in 1984 when Nestlé agreed to follow the WHO marketing code.
Nestlé boycott begins in the US over infant formula marketing
A boycott of Nestlé was launched in the United States (July 4, 1977) over its aggressive marketing of infant formula in developing countries. Critics said the company gave free samples in hospitals, dressed reps as nurses, and discouraged breastfeeding despite formula being riskier where water is unsafe. The boycott spread to Europe in the early 1980s.
