New York State AG files lawsuit against beef producer for misleading public on greenhouse gas emissions

ALBANY, NY (WBNG) -- New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a lawsuit against the world’s largest producer of beef products for misleading the public about its environmental impact.

James reported that JBS USA has claimed it will achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, despite documented plans to increase production. In 2021, the JBS global parent company reported global greenhouse gas emissions of more than 71 million tons, more than the total emission of some nations.

Attorney General James asked the court to require JBS USA to cease its net-zero by 2040 advertising campaign, conduct a third-party audit of its compliance with state consumer protection statutes and pay for gains earned by misleading the public as well as penalties of a least $5,00 per violation.

The total number of penalties will be determined at trial.