Class Action Lawsuit Alleges Forever Chemicals in Lagunitas Beer

A Northern California resident filed a class action lawsuit in federal court against Lagunitas Brewing Company, alleging that the company’s beer contains perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS. The complaint, filed Monday in the Northern District of California, claims that the brewery failed to disclose the presence of these chemicals to consumers.

According to the lawsuit, PFAS are man-made chemicals that do not degrade naturally in the environment and have earned the nickname “forever chemicals.” The plaintiff points to health risks linked to these substances, which include potential damage to the liver and immune system, as well as certain types of cancers. The legal filing contends that the brewing company knew or should have known about the chemical levels present in its beverages.

Study and Independent Testing Details

The legal action stems partly from an independent study released in April 2025 that investigated connections between PFAS in tap water and beer. While that study did not name specific brands, it identified a beer from Sonoma County—where Lagunitas operates as a major regional brewer—in a category associated with municipal drinking water containing PFAS.

Following this research, independent testing commissioned by the plaintiff analyzed four samples of Lagunitas beer purchased across the country. The results allegedly showed chemical concentrations significantly exceeding the Environmental Protection Agency’s enforceable limits for specific perfluorooctanoic and perfluorononanoic acids. The complaint argues that the company should have been aware of these issues.

Legal Claims and Allegations

The plaintiff brings multiple claims against the brewing company, including breach of the implied warranty, unfair competition, and violations of the state’s Consumers Legal Remedies Act. Legal representatives for the plaintiff argue that consumers unwittingly purchased a flawed product and that the company should pay damages and eliminate the chemical levels.

Founded in Lagunitas, California, in 1993, the brewing company moved operations to Petaluma, where all its beer is brewed. The Dutch-based Heineken Company acquired a partial stake in 2015 before purchasing the remaining portion in 2017, expanding the brand’s distribution nationally and internationally. A company representative did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

What This Means for Consumers

For ordinary shoppers and consumers who regularly purchase products from large beverage makers, this case highlights growing scrutiny over environmental contaminants in food and drink. The plaintiff claims he would not have bought the beer had he known about the alleged health risks, though he noted he would purchase the brand again if it could be certified free of PFAS.

Individuals who monitor product safety or purchase consumer goods implicated in similar quality controversies often keep purchase receipts and monitor court developments. When facing corporate disputes or evaluating consumer rights, speaking with a qualified legal professional may help individuals understand their options for seeking remedies or participating in class action litigation.

This article is general information based on Courthouse News Service and court or agency records available at publication time. It is not legal advice; laws and deadlines differ by state and by case. Published November 3, 2026.