Recently, a new class action lawsuit has been filed against Colgate-Palmolive Co., accusing the company of misleading consumers by failing to disclose that its hello kids toothpaste contains “substantial” levels of lead.
Plaintiffs Nathan Barton and Cynthia Fahrnkopf allege that independent laboratory testing revealed all flavors of the toothpaste contain amounts of lead far exceeding what could be considered safe for children. According to the complaint, “many pediatricians and toxicologists agree that no level of lead exposure is safe for children.”
The lawsuit seeks to represent California consumers who purchased Colgate’s hello kids toothpaste over the past four years. The plaintiffs claim that Colgate’s packaging—featuring statements that the toothpaste is safe and suitable for “kids ages 2+” or “kids all ages”—is deceptive, given the alleged lead content.
In addition, the filing points to Colgate’s colorful, child-oriented packaging designs—featuring rainbows, strawberries, watermelons, unicorns, sharks, mermaids, and dragons—as intentionally crafted to attract children and their caregivers.
Barton and Fahrnkopf argue that Colgate’s representations violate California’s Unfair Competition Law, False Advertising Law, and Consumer Legal Remedies Act. They are demanding a jury trial, as well as declaratory and injunctive relief, compensatory and monetary damages for themselves and other class members.
The case follows a prior lawsuit against Colgate and its subsidiary Tom’s of Maine, which alleged that some of their toothpaste products were manufactured using bacteria-contaminated water.
