Rubbermaid Lawsuit: "Microwave Safe" Containers Allegedly Release Toxins

Case Overview: A class action alleges Rubbermaid TakeAlongs food storage containers are falsely marketed as “Microwave Safe” and “Freezer Safe,” claiming the plastic releases harmful microplastics when heated or frozen.

Consumers Affected: U.S. consumers who purchased Rubbermaid TakeAlongs food storage containers.

Court: U.S. District Court for the Central District of California

Rubbermaid’s popular TakeAlongs food storage containers are at the center of a new lawsuit that accuses parent company Newell Brands Inc. of misleading consumers about product safety. 

The class action, filed in California, claims the containers are falsely marketed as “Microwave Safe,” “Microwave Reheatable,” and “Freezer Safe”, even though the plastic they’re made from allegedly releases harmful microplastics when heated or frozen.

The complaint alleges Rubbermaid’s labeling leads consumers to believe the containers are safe for everyday kitchen use. In reality, the lawsuit says, the polypropylene plastic used in the products breaks down under common conditions, releasing toxic particles directly into food. The lawsuit argues that the company not only failed to warn buyers of these dangers, but leaned into a safety narrative that makes the risk even more deceptive.

Consumers Say They Were Unaware of Hidden Health Risks

The lawsuit was brought by California residents Marija Andesilic and Passion Lowe, who say they bought the containers for around $15–$20 based on Rubbermaid’s safety claims. Both plaintiffs allege they read the packaging carefully and believed the products could be used for heating and freezing food without any risk.

They say they would not have purchased—or paid as much for—the containers had they known about the potential for microplastic exposure. Because the packaging doesn’t mention this risk and no warning is provided, the plaintiffs claim there was no way for them to understand the danger. 

Despite wanting to use the products again, they say they can’t trust the labeling and may mistakenly assume the safety issue has been addressed.

Lawsuit Details How Plastic Allegedly Releases Harmful Microplastics

Scientific studies cited in the lawsuit show that microwaving polypropylene containers can release millions of microplastic particles into food in just a few minutes. Freezing is also flagged as a concern, as the plastic can become brittle and degrade, especially when subjected to repeated freeze-thaw and reheat cycles—exactly the kind of use these containers are marketed for.

The suit says these microplastics are linked to serious health issues, including reproductive and immune system damage, digestive disruption, and even increased risk of stroke and heart disease. By marketing the products as reusable and safe for both heating and freezing, the company is accused of knowingly putting families, especially children, at risk.

Other Brands Face Similar Lawsuits Over Chemical Contamination

Rubbermaid isn’t alone in facing legal action for allegedly hiding the dangers of microplastics and toxic chemicals in everyday products. S.C. Johnson & Son, the maker of Ziploc bags, has been sued over claims that its products also release microplastics when used as instructed. 

Meanwhile, toymaker ZURU is under fire for marketing its Bunch O Balloons as eco-friendly despite containing PFAS—so-called “forever chemicals.” Even brands like Gore-Tex and Apple have been named in lawsuits tied to misleading safety or sustainability claims.

In this latest case, Andesilic and Lowe want to represent consumers from across the country in their aims of securing damages, restitution, an injunction against further misleading labeling, and potentially punitive penalties.

Case Details

• Lawsuit: Andesilic, et al. v. Newell Brands Inc.
• Case Number: 2:25-cv-03736 
• Court: U.S. District Court for the Central District of California 

Plaintiffs' Attorneys

• Ryan J. Clarkson, Bahar Sodaify, and Alan Gudino (Clarkson Law Firm, P.C.)

Do you use Rubbermaid TakeAlongs? Share your thoughts on these microplastic allegations below.