For decades, parents have relied on commercial baby food products to feed their infants and toddlers. Many reports, however, show that almost all commercial baby food, including Happy Baby products manufactured by Nurture, Inc., contains dangerous levels of toxic heavy metals.
Exposure to these heavy metals has been linked with an increased risk of autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). As a result of these findings, parents nationwide have filed lawsuits against Nurture, Inc., alleging that the company knew or should have known about the dangers associated with consuming Happy Baby baby food products contaminated with toxic heavy metals, including arsenic, lead, and mercury.
This page will focus on the claims made against Nurture, Inc. and the Happy Baby brand, including who may be eligible to file a lawsuit and the steps to initiate the legal process. Contact Wisner Baum for more information.
August 2025: Baby Food Products MDL Grows to Over 200 Pending Actions
MDL-3101 In Re: Baby Food Products Liability Litigation has grown to over 200 pending actions, according to the most recent data provided by the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML). The multidistrict litigation involves lawsuits filed against baby food manufacturers like Nurture, Inc., whose products allegedly contain toxic levels of heavy metals. It is expected that the number of lawsuits may grow substantially over the coming months due to the large number of infants and toddlers who have consumed these products.
June 2025: Happy Baby Products Exceed California Lead Limits
New testing required by state law shows that multiple baby food products exceeded the lead levels deemed safe by California. According to Reuters, 102 of the 1,757 test results exceeded 0.5 micrograms of lead. Included in the products that tested over the state’s safe level of lead were Happy Baby baby food items manufactured by Nurture, Inc.
April 2025: Direct File Deadline Set in Baby Food Products MDL
At a case management conference, a direct file deadline was set by United States District Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley. Plaintiffs will have until November 21, 2025, to direct file a claim. After that date, plaintiffs must file a claim in the appropriate state court and request a transfer to the baby food MDL. Parents of children who were diagnosed with autism or ADHD after consuming Happy Baby baby food products are encouraged to contact an attorney as soon as possible to determine the best course of legal action, including direct filing a claim.
January 2025: FDA Issues Final Guidance for Lead Levels in Baby Food Products
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued final guidance for action levels of lead in baby and toddler food products in the U.S. According to its guidance, baby food products containing fruits, yogurts, custards, single-ingredient meats, and vegetables (with the exception of single-ingredient root vegetables) should contain no more than 10 parts per billion (ppb) of lead. For single-ingredient root vegetables and dry infant cereals, the actionable levels are 20 ppb.
These action levels are not legally enforceable limits but serve as thresholds at which the FDA may consider a product adulterated and potentially take enforcement actions, such as product recalls or warnings. Baby food companies that do not comply will risk regulatory scrutiny, product seizures, or other enforcement measures. The compliance deadline went into effect on June 30, 2025, giving manufacturers a window to update their processes and ensure compliance.
May 2024: New Bill Addresses Toxic Heavy Metals in Baby Food Products
Senator Amy Klobuchar has introduced the “Baby Food Safety Act of 2024.” The bill, if passed, would limit the level of contaminants that can be found in commercial baby food products sold in the U.S., including Happy Baby products sold by Nurture, Inc. The legislation comes after in-depth investigations found that 95% of baby food products tested contained lead and over 70% contained arsenic. The law would require rigorous testing and publication of internal testing to ensure transparency.
April 2024: JPML Orders Transfer of Baby Food Lawsuits to MDL
The JPML has consolidated ten actions pending out of multiple jurisdictions across the country to an MDL in the Northern District of California. MDL No. 3101: In Re: Baby Food Product Liability Litigation was assigned to the Honorable Jacqueline Scott Corley. All lawsuits involved suits against major commercial baby food manufacturers, including Nurture, Inc., the manufacturer of Happy Baby baby food products.
The Happy Baby Food lawsuit centers on allegations that Happy Baby products contain unsafe levels of toxic heavy metals, including lead, arsenic, and mercury. Legal documents accuse the company of failing to warn consumers about the risks associated with consuming its products. Studies show that consuming even low levels of these heavy metals can cause neurological harm and lead to developmental disorders such as autism and ADHD.
Lawsuits continue to mount against Nurture, Inc., the manufacturer of Happy Baby products and other commercial baby food companies. Actions taken against these manufacturers are currently being consolidated into an MDL out of the Northern District of California. The consolidation of these claims helps to streamline the pre-trial process while still preserving each family’s right to compensation based on the individual circumstances of their case.
Happy Baby (along with Happy Tots & Happy Family Organics) is a brand of organic baby food manufactured by Nurture, Inc. Launched in 2006, the company began as a “premium, organic frozen baby food line.” In 2012, the woman-owned business was named the “Fastest Growing Organic Food Company” by Inc. 500.
What to know about Happy Baby and Nurture, Inc.:
Independent testing, congressional reports, and guidance from the FDA have found toxic heavy metals in Happy Baby baby food products. Some states, like California, now require companies, like Nurture, Inc. to complete internal testing and publish those results for consumers. As a result of growing concerns over the levels of toxic heavy metals in nearly all commercial baby food products, the FDA announced a Closer to Zero initiative.
How concerning levels of toxic heavy metals were found in Happy Baby foods:
Both internal and independent testing confirm toxic heavy metals are present in Happy Baby baby food, raising concerns over whether the products are safe for consumption by infants and toddlers. These safety concerns are now central to legal claims being filed nationwide by families who have suffered harm.
Independent testing has repeatedly found concerning levels of arsenic, lead, and mercury in Happy Baby products. When consumed, these metals can cause irreparable harm to infants and toddlers. Legal documents allege that manufacturers, including Nurture, Inc., knew of the dangers associated with the heavy metals found in their products and failed to warn consumers or pull the items from the market.
Arsenic is a substance that has been identified by the Department of Health and Human Services’ Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) as posing a substantial risk to human health. Exposure to arsenic can cause serious harm, including developmental delays in children and damage to the central nervous system.
Congressional studies showed that Happy Baby food products contained up to 180 ppb of inorganic arsenic and over 25% contained over 100 ppb, well over the recommended levels of safe consumption.
Lead is a naturally occurring substance that can be toxic to humans, even in small doses. Of particular concern is the effect of lead on children. Exposure to lead can negatively impact a child’s neurological development. Studies show it can accumulate in the body, leading to lower IQs, behavioral problems, and other long-term health issues.
Internal documents reported on by the House Oversight Committee found that Nurture sold baby food products that contained dangerously high levels of lead, in some cases exceeding 640 ppb.
Mercury exposure at a young age has been linked with an increased risk of autism and/or ADHD, according to the Congressional Oversight Committee. When finished products were tested, it was discovered that Nurture sold Happy Baby food, such as brown rice cereal and banana sweet potato teethers, that exceeded 10 ppb mercury, 5x the EPA’s standard of 2 ppb for drinking water.
The Happy Baby brand encompasses a wide range of products from pureed fruits and vegetables to puffed crackers for toddlers. When tested, many of these products presented high levels of heavy metals. It is important to note that many of these products are labeled and sold as organic. The Congressional Oversight Committee, however, found that there was not a significant difference in heavy metal levels between organic and non-organic processed baby foods.
Happy Baby food products with high levels of heavy metals:
While the FDA and other regulatory agencies are still finalizing guidance on what is considered a safe level for many heavy metals, most experts agree that the levels in commercial baby food products are exceedingly high. The FDA, however, has issued a final ruling on lead in baby and toddler foods. It is unsafe for food to contain more than 10 ppb lead in most cases, and 20 ppb for things like root vegetables and infant cereals.
To date, Nurture, Inc. has not issued any recalls or safety notices related to toxic heavy metals in its Happy Baby baby food product line. While multiple regulatory agencies and independent authorities, including the EPA, FDA, and consumer advocacy groups, have raised concerns over the levels of heavy metals in nearly all commercial baby food products on the market, no recalls have been issued.
While there have not been any direct or widespread recalls related to heavy metal contamination in Happy Baby baby food products, individuals are still encouraged to take legal action against companies that have knowingly sold products that cause harm to consumers. Legal claims against Nurture, Inc. and other baby food manufacturers remain valid, regardless of whether there has been a recall issued.
Parents whose child was diagnosed with a developmental or behavioral disorder, such as ADHD or autism, after being fed Happy Baby baby food products may be eligible to file a lawsuit.
Parents can determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria for filing a Happy Baby baby food lawsuit by consulting with an experienced attorney. An attorney can provide guidance throughout the legal process and ensure all requirements are met before filing. Potential claimants should collect relevant evidence supporting their case, including proof of purchase, history of feeding, and medical records. We advise parents to act quickly to ensure the prompt filing of a claim.
The legal process in a Happy Baby baby food lawsuit can be complex and should be handled by a qualified attorney. An attorney can help with each step of the process, including determining whether the claim can be directly filed with the current MDL out of the Northern District of California or if it should be filed in the appropriate state court first.
An MDL occurs when a group of cases has similar facts or centers around a similar question of law. Consolidating the cases helps to streamline the pre-trial process. Discovery is made available to all plaintiffs, and bellwether trials are set, which can give insight into how juries may decide a claim. While MDLs help to move litigation along and bring justice to victims faster, they still allow for cases to be independently evaluated for compensation based on the individual circumstances of the particular claim.
The first step in a Happy Baby lawsuit is to consult with an experienced attorney. An attorney can help to ensure the claim meets all legal requirements and will determine how to best proceed with the case.
In cases where a successful claim is brought against Nurture, Inc., the manufacturer of Happy Baby products, claimants may be eligible for compensation.
Potential compensation available in a Happy Baby baby food lawsuit:
It is important to note that all cases are different and compensation will be based on factors such as the severity of the diagnosis, verifiable damages, and ability to connect heavy metal exposure in Happy Baby products to actual harm.
Parents whose children have been diagnosed with autism or ADHDafter consuming Happy Baby baby food products are encouraged to take legal action against the manufacturer.
To file a toxic baby food claim, parents should consult with a qualified attorney as early in the process as possible. An attorney can review the case for eligibility and determine the best path forward, either by joining the existing MDL or filing a separate claim in state court.
Aggrieved families can start by gathering information that may help to strengthen their claims, including purchase records for Happy Baby food products, medical records proving a qualifying diagnosis, and proof of actual losses. It is imperative to act quickly, securing a legal consultation as soon as possible to ensure all deadlines are met and the case is filed promptly.
Parents of children who suffered harm after consuming Happy Baby products are encouraged to contact a lawyer immediately. A lawyer, well-versed in toxic baby food lawsuits, can help to assess eligibility and determine what legal options may exist for compensation. Failure to act quickly, however, may result in a claim being dismissed or denied. An attorney can seek justice for you and your family. Contact Wisner Baum now to schedule a free initial case evaluation.
Independent testing found that nearly all (90 to 95%) commercial baby food, including Happy Baby food products, contains heavy metals. Exposure to toxic heavy metals can cause serious harm to an infant or toddler. It is alleged that unsafe levels of these heavy metals may be linked to an increased risk of developing autism and ADHD.
Reports indicate that Happy Baby baby foods contain high levels of heavy metals, especially those containing rice, root vegetables (like sweet potatoes and carrots), and certain fruits. Common examples include Superfood Puffs, Organic Rice Cakes, Teether Crackers, and various pouches.
Multiple sources, including a House Oversight Committee and Consumer Reports, found concerning levels of heavy metals in Happy Baby baby food products. Additionally, internal and independent testing of Happy Baby products confirmed these reports.
Many people may be eligible to file a Happy Baby lawsuit. The best way to determine eligibility is by consulting with a qualified attorney.
The best way to prove your child ate Happy Baby baby food is by providing proof of purchase, feeding history, and product labels. Receipts showing Happy Baby baby food purchases, pictures, feeding logs, and other evidence may help to strengthen your claim.
The amount of time a person has to file a Happy Baby lawsuit is state-specific and may depend on when the child was diagnosed with a qualifying condition. Additionally, claimants may only have a limited amount of time to direct file a case in the existing MDL. An attorney can provide guidance on any legal timelines or deadlines that may apply to the case.
It is alleged that Happy Baby food is contaminated with toxic heavy metals, including arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury.
It is an individual decision what to feed your child. However, it is important to be informed about potential contaminants in commercial baby food. Some states are now requiring baby food manufacturers to report internal testing data about the levels of heavy metals in their products. Results can generally be found online through the company’s website.
This blog lists alternative baby food companies that routinely screen for heavy metals and have robust safety systems in place.
Nurture, Inc. owns and produces Happy Baby baby food products, including Happy Tot and Happy Family Organics.
Although there has not been a widespread recall of Happy Baby puffs or other Happy Baby foods, it does not prevent parents from taking legal action against the manufacturer for the presence of toxic heavy metals in these products.
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In May of 2019, the jury in the case of Pilliod et al. v, Monsanto Company ordered the agrochemical giant to pay $2.055 billion in damages to the plaintiffs, Alva and Alberta Pilliod, a Bay Area couple in their 70s. R. Brent Wisner served as co-lead trial attorney for the Pilliods, delivering the opening and closing statements and cross-examining several of Monsanto’s experts. Wisner Baum managing shareholder, Michael Baum and attorney Pedram Esfandiary also served on the trial team in the Pilliod case.
The judge later reduced their award to $87M. Monsanto appealed the Pilliod’s verdict which the California Court of Appeal for the First Appellate District denied on August 9, 2021. Monsanto then requested the California Supreme Court review the appeal’s court decision, which the court denied on Nov. 17, 2021. Monsanto (Bayer) then submitted a petition for a writ of certiorari with the U.S. Supreme Court which SCOTUS denied on June 27, 2022, allowing the final judgment of $87M to remain intact.
$289.2 million jury verdict in Monsanto Roundup trial
Wisner Baum co-represented Dewayne “Lee” Johnson in the first Roundup cancer lawsuit to proceed to trial. On Aug. 10, 2018, a San Francisco jury ordered Monsanto to pay $39.25 million in compensatory damages and $250 million in punitive damages to Mr. Johnson, a former groundskeeper who alleged exposure to Monsanto’s herbicides caused him to develop terminal non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Months after the jury verdict, the judge overseeing the trial reduced the punitive damages to $39.25 million. Mr. Johnson decided to accept the remittitur, bringing the adjusted amount awarded to Mr. Johnson $78.5 million.
Monsanto (Bayer) appealed the verdict and Johnson cross appealed. On July 20, 2020, the First Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the verdict against Monsanto but reduced Mr. Johnson’s award to $20.5 million. The company chose not to take the case to the U.S. Supreme Court, ending the litigation.
In 2016, Wisner Baum attorney Timothy A. Loranger and six other attorneys in the Plaintiffs’ Management Committee were able to secure a $265 million settlement for victims of the 2015 Amtrak 188 derailment in Philadelphia, one of the largest in the U.S. for 2016.
