Ingredients related to dementia found in popular foods used by more than 200m Americans
Ziploc is a popular brand of food bags and containers used by more than 200 million Americans and is now at the center of disturbing health controversy.
A class action lawsuit filed in California accused Ziploc’s manufacturers of misleading consumers’ safety of microwave bags and containers.
The complaint says that the plastic in Ziploc products may release harmful microplastics, which over time may expose millions of dollars to toxins.
Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic (not more than 5 mm in size) that are linked to cancer, cardiovascular disease and reproductive problems.
When plastic products break down, these particles can enter our food, water, and even air.
The 51-page lawsuit claims that Ziploc bags and containers are sold as “microwave-safe” and are suitable for use in freezers, failing to warn consumers that these products may release microplastics when used as intended.
The complaint specifically mentions Ziploc freezer bags, slider freezer bags, slider storage bags and Ziploc containers.
The lawsuit states that “microwave safety” and “freezer” labels create a false sense of security. “The company overlooks the key information that these products release microplastics when they are microwaved or frozen.”
Ziploc is a popular brand of food bags and containers used by more than 200 million Americans and is now at the center of disturbing health controversy
Millions of Americans use food bags, sparking fears they are being exposed to microplastics that cause cancer
Dailymail.com has contacted SC Johnson for comment.
The lawsuit argues that this omission is not only misleading, but also means the product fails with its basic purpose.
“These products do not provide reliable food storage and preparation methods without putting users at material risks,” the complaint said.
The lawsuit was filed by California resident Linda Cheslow, claiming that containers marked “microwave safety” and “refrigerator” are made of polyethylene and polypropylene.
Polyethylene and polypropylene are common types of plastic that can be broken down into microplastics, and both are used in food packaging.
“Scientific and medical evidence shows that these materials release microplastics when microwaved or frozen, making them fundamentally unsafe,” the lawsuit said.
“Because of the defendant’s false claims, people unknowingly exposed themselves and their families to harmful microplastics during their daily kitchen activities.”
The lawsuit accuses SC Johnson of violating consumer trust by marketing food-safe containers while hiding known health risks.
Class action lawsuit filed in California alleges Ziploc’s manufacturer SC Johnson & Son Inc. misleads consumers’ safety in microwave bags and containers
The complaint added: “The company exploits consumer expectations by failing to disclose food that releases microplastics when its products are microwaved or frozen.”
It also claims that Ziploc bags marked “microwave safety” can release up to 4.22 million microplastics and 2.1 billion nanoplastic particles in just three minutes after microwave heating.
The lawsuit says the “freezer” label misleads consumers to believe that these products are safe for low-temperature food storage without risk.
The complaint further cites research that showed that microplastics found in brain samples increased by 50% from 2016 to 2024, suggesting that these particles accumulate in the body over time.
Polypropylene microplastics are also found in bone marrow, indicating that they can penetrate deep into human tissues.
Scientists have found that human brain samples have 7 to 30 times more microplastics than liver or kidneys, and the levels reported by dementia patients are higher.
It also claims that Ziploc bags marked “microwave safety” can release up to 4.22 million microplastics and 2.1 billion nanoplastic particles in just three minutes after microwave heating
Both liver and brain samples from 2024 show significantly more microplastics than since 2016.
SC Johnson issued a statement denied the allegations: “We believe that Ziploc products are safe when used as directed and that these claims are unfounded.”
Another major brand named in the related question, Rubbermaid, also faces criticism, as toxicologists highlight the issue of heat-related plastic breakdown and chemical leaks.
In a lawsuit against SC Johnson, the plaintiff argued that the class should include all consumers who purchased the product nationwide.
The complaint requires that the last four years be used to define this period for California consumers.
Plastic food containers have long been popular in U.S. homes because they are affordable, convenient and durable. But as more research links plastic exposure to serious health risks, public opinion is shifting.
Class members who join the lawsuit are eligible for an equal share of any settlement.
The Food and Drug Administration is under increasing pressure to update its standards for microwave safety labels.
Critics say the current regulations are outdated and do not adequately address long-term chemical exposures or actual use of these products.
