Dwayne Johnson's Energy Drink Brand Settles False Advertising Lawsuit

ZOA Energy agrees to $3 million settlement over claims it falsely advertised drinks as "preservative-free"

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

The energy drink brand co-owned by actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson has agreed to a $3 million class-action settlement after being accused of using deceptive marketing tactics. The lawsuit alleged that ZOA Energy drinks contained chemical preservatives despite being advertised as "preservative-free". As part of the settlement, consumers who purchased ZOA drinks labeled as "0 preservatives" between March 2021 and November 2025 may be eligible for cash payments of up to $150 per household.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of truthful and transparent marketing, especially for health-conscious consumer products. The settlement raises questions about the regulation of energy drink labeling and the responsibility of celebrity-backed brands to ensure their products live up to advertised claims.

The details

According to the lawsuit, ZOA Energy drinks contained citric and ascorbic acids, which are chemical preservatives, despite the brand's claims of being "preservative-free". ZOA did not admit any wrongdoing but agreed to settle the class-action lawsuit, which was originally filed in October 2023 in the Northern District of California.

  • The lawsuit was filed on October 23, 2023.
  • The $3 million settlement was reached in February 2026.
  • Consumers have until February 20, 2026 to submit a claim for the settlement.

The players

ZOA Energy

An energy drink brand co-owned by actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson

A co-owner of the ZOA Energy brand.

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What’s next

The final approval hearing for the ZOA Energy settlement is scheduled for March 26, 2026. If approved, eligible consumers will have until February 20, 2026 to submit a claim for the settlement.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of accurate and transparent marketing, especially for health-conscious consumer products. It also raises questions about the responsibility of celebrity-backed brands to ensure their products live up to advertised claims.