Business
Lawsuit Accuses Starbucks of Mislabeling 'Sugar-Free' Protein Drinks
AP News · 6 hours ago · Read the Full Story on AP News
AI SUMMARY
A federal class-action lawsuit alleges that Starbucks falsely markets eight U.S. protein drinks as sugar-free despite containing significant levels of sugar.
- Hagens Berman filed a federal class-action lawsuit against Starbucks in Seattle on behalf of consumers in California, New York, and Washington.
- The lawsuit alleges that eight Starbucks protein beverages sold in the U.S. are falsely marketed as 'sugar-free' despite containing varying amounts of sugar.
- A 16-ounce Sugar-Free Caramel Protein Matcha contains 16 grams of sugar, and the 20-ounce version contains 21 grams, compared to 11 grams in a Reese’s peanut butter cup.
- Plaintiffs contend that the naming, marketing, and labeling of these products are false, deceptive, and violate federal regulations.
- Starbucks stated that the sugar in the drinks comes naturally from the protein-boosted milk used and that no extra sugar is added.
- Starbucks noted its website clearly states the nutritional content and sugar amounts for each beverage, and a spokesperson stated the company intends to vigorously defend the claims.
- Starbucks launched its protein drinks in September 2025 to compete with rivals like Dutch Bros.
- The lawsuit seeks financial damages for U.S. consumers and a court order stopping Starbucks from using the 'sugar-free' label on products containing sugar.
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