An energy drink brand co-owned by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has agreed to a $3 million class-action settlement after being accused of using deceptive marketing tactics — and you might be owed up to $150.
ZOA Energy was sued over claims that its drinks contained chemical preservatives, even though the brand advertises that its drinks are preservative-free.
“ZOA’s claim that its Products contain ‘0 Preservatives’ is false, as each contains a significant amount of the preservative citric acid,” a federal complaint obtained by USA Today read.
According to the lawsuit, the drinks contain citric and ascorbic acids, which are chemical preservatives.
The popular energy drink brand, which was originally sued on Oct. 23, 2023, in the Northern District of California, didn’t admit any wrongdoing but agreed to settle, court records show.
“ZOA denies these allegations and maintains that its labeling and marketing are truthful, accurate, and compliant with applicable law,” the documents said.
The settlement benefits those who purchased any ZOA Energy drink labeled “0 preservatives” between March 1, 2021, and Nov. 21, 2025.
Class members can receive a cash payment contingent on the number of ZOA Energy drinks purchased and whether they have proof of purchase.
Consumers with proof of purchase can get $1 per unit purchased, up to a maximum of $150 per household.
Without proof of purchase, the household maximum goes down to $10.
Potential class members will have to move quickly: they must submit a valid claim form by Friday, Feb. 20.
The final approval hearing for the ZOA Energy settlement is scheduled for March 26.
“The proposed relief offered to Class Members will be provided only if the Court gives final approval to the Settlement and, if there are any appeals, after the appeals are resolved in favor of the Settlement,” the website says.
