The Girl Scouts of the USA and its cookie manufacturers are facing a proposed class-action lawsuit over claims that their popular cookies contain harmful levels of heavy metals and pesticides. The lawsuit, filed in a Brooklyn federal court, alleges that Thin Mints and other varieties contain aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury—some exceeding recommended safety limits. It also cites the presence of glyphosate, a pesticide found in weed killers, with Thin Mints reportedly having the highest levels.
Plaintiff Amy Mayo, a New York resident, claims she purchased several Girl Scout cookie varieties under the belief that they were “quality and safe.” She argues that she wouldn’t have bought them—or would have paid less—had the organization disclosed the presence of these substances. The lawsuit seeks at least $5 million in damages for U.S. consumers and calls for more accurate labeling on the cookies.
The lawsuit references a December 2024 study by GMO Science and Moms Across America, which tested 25 cookie samples from multiple states. In response to earlier concerns, the Girl Scouts addressed the study in a February blog post, stating that trace amounts of heavy metals naturally occur in soil and that glyphosate is widespread in the food supply. The nonprofit insisted that its cookies meet all safety regulations and remain safe for consumption.
This legal action follows similar lawsuits against chocolate manufacturers, including Hershey, after reports found elevated heavy metals in their products. While the Girl Scouts and their baking partners have yet to comment on the lawsuit, the case raises broader concerns about food safety regulations and transparency in consumer products marketed to children.
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