As 2025 approaches, legal experts are closely monitoring the rise of mass tort litigation surrounding issues such as plastic pollution, social media addiction, and baby formula. Meanwhile, ongoing cases related to diet drugs, “forever chemicals,” and preemie-targeted infant formula continue to evolve and attract attention.
Significant Developments in 2024
Last year saw substantial verdicts and settlements across various industries. Juries awarded significant damages in lawsuits against Abbott and Mead Johnson regarding infant formula. However, other high-profile cases yielded mixed results: initial Zantac trials ended inconclusively or favored defendants such as Boehringer Ingelheim and GlaxoSmithKline. Similarly, Bayer’s Monsanto prevailed in several Roundup lawsuits, and expert testimony was excluded in cases involving paraquat and decongestants.
Settlements in 2024 included multimillion-dollar payouts for claims involving Philips CPAP devices, 23andMe’s data breach, Zantac cases, and Norfolk Southern’s train derailment in 2023. These outcomes set the stage for the upcoming legal battles of 2025.
Key Mass Tort Trends to Watch in 2025
Plastics Legal actions over plastic pollution are expected to gain traction in 2025, with plaintiffs’ firms increasingly representing governments in cases alleging misrepresentation about recycling and public nuisance claims. For example, in 2024, Motley Rice filed a lawsuit on behalf of Los Angeles County against Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, while Cotchett, Pitre & McCarthy collaborated with California’s Attorney General to sue Exxon Mobil Corp. for its use of non-recyclable plastics. However, not all cases have succeeded—a New York judge dismissed Attorney General Letitia James’ public nuisance claim against PepsiCo regarding Buffalo River pollution.
PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”) Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) litigation continues to dominate headlines. Major defendants, including DuPont, 3M, Tyco, and BASF, reached over $14 billion in settlements in 2024 over allegations that firefighting foams contaminated public water supplies. Yet, new lawsuits are emerging against companies for PFAS-related contamination in everyday products like bubble gum, baby wipes, and hydration drinks. The regulatory landscape for PFAS remains uncertain, with potential changes depending on federal administration policies.
Social Media Social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube face increasing legal scrutiny over claims that their services contribute to addiction, depression, and other mental health issues among youth. While many cases survived initial dismissal efforts, the legal landscape remains unsettled. A potential first trial in California could take place later in 2025. Beyond social media, plaintiffs’ attorneys are eyeing video game addiction as a burgeoning area for litigation. Although an earlier motion to consolidate these cases failed, a renewed effort could emerge this year.
Looking Ahead
The coming year promises to be pivotal for mass tort litigation. Lawyers are preparing for potentially groundbreaking cases across various industries, from plastics and PFAS to emerging claims involving digital addiction. As courts begin to address these issues more substantively, the outcomes could shape the future of consumer protection and corporate accountability.
