A proposed class-action lawsuit has been filed against Girl Scouts of the USA, alleging that their cookies contain harmful substances, including heavy metals and pesticides. The lawsuit, initiated by a New York resident, seeks $5 million in damages and demands clearer labeling of cookie ingredients.
The legal action references a 2024 study commissioned by consumer groups, which reported that all tested samples of Girl Scout cookies contained detectable levels of heavy metals—such as aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury—as well as the herbicide glyphosate. The study claimed that some samples allegedly exceeded safety limits for cadmium and tested positive for lead.
However, the study has faced scrutiny due to its limited sample size and methodology. It was not peer-reviewed or published in a scientific journal, and critics argue that it compared detected substance levels to water safety standards rather than food safety guidelines, potentially misrepresenting the actual risk.
In response to the allegations, Girl Scouts of the USA has asserted that their cookies are safe for consumption and comply with all applicable food safety regulations. The organization emphasized that heavy metals can naturally occur in soil, leading to trace amounts in plant-based ingredients, and that such levels are not considered harmful.
The lawsuit also accuses the Girl Scouts of making misleading claims about the safety and quality of their cookies in marketing materials and packaging. As the legal proceedings continue, consumers are advised to stay informed and review official statements from regulatory agencies regarding food safety.
