Mars Petcare is facing a proposed class-action lawsuit alleging its PEDIGREE Complete Nutrition Roasted Chicken & Vegetable Dog Kibble contains dangerously high levels of vitamin D, contradicting the product’s marketed claim of being “100% Complete & Balanced” for dogs.
Filed on May 2, 2025, by plaintiffs Helene Attias and Trisha Nadeau in New York, the suit argues that consumers were misled by the nutritional assurances printed on PEDIGREE packaging and promotional materials. According to the lawsuit, the kibble was advertised as meeting the nutritional requirements outlined by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for a complete and balanced canine diet, including claims of containing “36 Vitamins, Minerals, and Amino Acids.”
However, the complaint references independent testing conducted by Consumer Reports and published on February 12, 2025, which found that samples of the product contained an average of 14,282 IU/kg of vitamin D. This level is more than 28 times the AAFCO minimum maintenance requirement and nearly five times the AAFCO maximum safe level.
Excessive vitamin D can cause toxicity in dogs, with potential symptoms including vomiting, weight loss, excessive drooling, diarrhea, increased thirst and urination, and in severe cases, death.
The plaintiffs are pursuing damages on behalf of themselves and similarly affected consumers, alleging violations of New York General Business Law and breach of express warranty. They contend that Mars misrepresented the safety and nutritional adequacy of its dog food, leading consumers to purchase a product that did not meet industry standards or the company’s own marketing promises.
According to Petfood Industry's Top Pet Food companies, Mars Petcare is a division of Mars, Inc. that focuses on providing veterinary care, nutrition, and other services for pets. It is a global company with over 100,000 associates in more than 130 countries.
