David Protein Bar Lawsuit: Lab Tests Claim 400% More Fat Than the Label Says

Quick Take

• A January 2026 class action alleges David Protein bars contain up to 83 percent more calories and 400 percent more fat than stated.
• Independent tests cited in the complaint used FDA-recognized methods to arrive at the higher figures.
• Founder Peter Rahal says the labels are accurate and plans a vigorous defense, citing the use of a low-calorie fat substitute.

Key Facts Alleged

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, targets Linus Technologies Inc., maker of David Protein bars. Plaintiffs say:

• Calories per bar measured at 268–275, compared with the labeled 150 (up to 83 percent higher).
• Total fat measured at 11–13.5 g, compared with the labeled 2 g (up to 400 percent higher).
• Testing used the Atwater method for calories and AOAC 945.44 for fat content at an FDA-accredited laboratory.

Under FDA regulations, actual nutrient values may not exceed labeled values by more than 20 percent.

Regulatory Context

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration permits a 20 percent variance between declared and actual nutrient values. Plaintiffs argue the discrepancies far exceed that threshold, calling the labeling “unlawful and deceptive.” Bars retail for about $3–$4, which the suit says represents a premium price based on health claims.

Company Response

Founder Peter Rahal attributes the dispute to esterified propoxylated glycerol (EPG), a plant-based fat substitute he says is metabolized at 0.7 calories per gram—well below the 9 calories per gram assigned to conventional fats. According to Rahal:

• Standard laboratory methods do not properly account for EPG’s reduced caloric value.
• When EPG is calculated under FDA guidance, the advertised 150 calories remain accurate.
• “David Protein stands firmly behind the accuracy of its labeling and will vigorously defend it,” he said in a written statement and social media posts referencing the movie “Mean Girls.”

Products Named in the Complaint

The proposed class covers purchasers of David Protein bars in these flavors:

• Chocolate Chip Cookie
• Cinnamon Roll
• Fudge Brownie
• Red Velvet
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk
• Blueberry Pie
• Pumpkin Spice
• Cake Batter

What’s Next

The case, Lopez et al. v. Linus Technologies Inc., No. 1:26-cv-00635, is in its initial stages. Plaintiffs seek damages, restitution, and an injunction preventing further sales with the current labels. The court will next consider motions on class certification and the merits of the testing methodologies.