A woman from Washington has filed a lawsuit against Celsius, claiming that the energy drink company misled her through what she describes as a “health-washing scheme.” Phrases such as “accelerates metabolism” and “improves function” are cited in the lawsuit.
This latest suit, which aims for class-action status, was lodged in federal court in Washington against the Boca Raton, Florida-based firm known for having the second-largest energy drink collection in the United States.
According to the lawsuit, Annabelle Nielsen believes she incurred financial losses because she would have opted for a less expensive product had she realized that Celsius’ health assertions were unfounded.
“The plaintiff purchased the Healthwashed Energy Products under the reasonable yet mistaken belief that these products offer specific health benefits,” the complaint states.
The term “healthwashing” refers to ambiguous and questionable claims like “organic” and “high protein.” In the case of Celsius, health-related assertions are prominently displayed on the product’s front while being downplayed in smaller print on the back, as detailed in Nielsen’s filing.
For example, the can for the Astro Vibe-flavored Celsius advertises benefits like “accelerates metabolism” and “burns body fat,” alongside small images depicting activities like running, biking, and meditating. The marketing also showcases ingredients such as ginger root and green tea extract, as mentioned in the lawsuit.
However, fine print on the containers clarifies that “Celsius alone does not produce weight loss in absence of a healthy diet and moderate exercise. So whether it’s walking the dog or hitting the gym, make Celsius part of your daily routine,” according to their website.
The lawsuit also notes the company’s claims about thermogenic properties, which essentially means heat-producing. Caffeine is generally recognized as a mild thermogenic, and Celsius drinks contain between 200 and 270 milligrams of caffeine—the rough equivalent of up to three cups of coffee.
In statements made in 2025, Celsius CEO John Fieldly emphasized that their products are healthier without sacrificing flavor and that they contribute to fitness benefits, which he claimed are appealing to a wide audience.
The lawsuit accuses Celsius of promoting misleading studies related to their beverages. As stated on their website, Celsius advises consumers to consult healthcare professionals regarding any health concerns related to their products and suggests limiting consumption to two cans per day.
A Celsius spokesperson defended the company, asserting, “We stand firmly behind our peer-reviewed clinical studies and product claims, which have previously been approved by the Better Business Bureau’s National Advertising Division. Our products are clearly labeled, consistent with past practices, and meet or exceed FDA regulations.”
In June, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton launched an investigation into Celsius for the marketing and packaging of one of its products, Alani Nu, which contains 200 milligrams of caffeine in a 12-ounce can and is targeted at teenagers. Celsius has expressed willingness to cooperate with the investigation while contesting Paxton’s portrayal of the product.
