PepsiCo was sued by the state of New York on Wednesday, alleging that its single-use plastic bottles, caps, and wrappers are causing environmental pollution and posing a health risk to the general public.

One of the earliest lawsuits in the United States by a state to go after a significant plastics manufacturer was launched in state court in upstate Erie County.

Attorney General Letitia James of New York accused PepsiCo, a major producer of beverages and snack foods, of creating a substantial amount of plastic waste that was discovered in and around the upstate Buffalo River, including over 17% of debris that could be easily linked to individual brands.

The company, according to her, misled the public about its efforts to combat plastic pollution and neglected to alert consumers about the possible health and environmental risks associated with the plastics used in its more than 100 brands.

According to James, when this kind of pollution degrades, it can find its way into drinking water and cause health issues.

All New Yorkers, according to James, had a fundamental right to clean water, but Buffalo's water supply, the environment, and public health were in danger because of PepsiCo's careless marketing and packaging.

According to a representative for PepsiCo, the Purchase, New York-based company is dedicated to collaborating with local communities and is taking plastic reduction and efficient recycling seriously.

The spokesperson also stated that PepsiCo has collaborated with national stakeholders to enhance recycling infrastructure and raise consumer awareness of the value of recycling.

PepsiCo's brands include Ocean Spray, Quaker, Ruffles, Tostitos, Lay's, Lipton, Mountain Dew, Doritos, Fritos, Cheetos, Cracker Jack, and Gatorade in addition to Pepsi Cola.