Beyond Meat Faces Investor Lawsuits Over Asset Valuation Concerns

The plant-based protein company Beyond Meat is confronting multiple class-action lawsuits filed on behalf of shareholders. The core allegation is that the company misled investors regarding the carrying value of certain long-term assets on its balance sheet, culminating in a significant non-cash impairment charge disclosed late last year.

According to legal filings, investors claim that Beyond Meat failed to disclose in a timely manner that the book value of some long-term assets exceeded their fair market value. The plaintiffs argue this made a substantial write-down foreseeable. Consequently, public statements made by the company during a specified period are alleged to have been "materially false and misleading" for not adequately addressing this looming valuation issue.

The legal actions pertain specifically to investors who purchased the company's securities between February 27, 2025, and November 11, 2025. Those who bought shares within this window have until March 24, 2026, to apply for the "Lead Plaintiff" role in the proceedings.

Timeline of a Write-Down

The situation unfolded in the final quarter of 2025. Beyond Meat first signaled trouble on October 24, 2025, warning investors to expect a "material" non-cash impairment on certain assets, though it provided no specific figure at that time.

Shortly after, in early November, the company announced a delay in releasing its third-quarter results. It cited a need for additional time to finalize the scope of the anticipated impairment charge.

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The formal figures were finally presented on November 10, 2025. The Q3 earnings report included the confirmation of a $77.4 million non-cash impairment on specific long-term assets.

Industry Challenges and Company Moves

These legal challenges emerge during a difficult period for the broader plant-based meat alternative sector, which is grappling with slowing growth. Industry observers point to shifting consumer demand, alongside ongoing debates about product pricing and processing, as contributing factors.

Amid these pressures, Beyond Meat has recently moved to diversify its product portfolio. The company announced an expansion into the protein drink category with a new line called "Beyond Immerse."

For affected investors, the critical date remains March 24, 2026, which is the deadline to file for lead plaintiff status in the ongoing litigation.