A recent legal claim questions Starbucks’ “sugar-free” protein beverages, alleging they contain up to 21 grams of sugar per serving due to naturally occurring sugar in milk. The lawsuit accuses Starbucks of misleading consumers by mislabeling eight protein drinks as “sugar-free.” Starbucks denies the allegations, emphasizing their provision of nutritional information and customization options.
The lawsuit targets drinks like the sugar-free vanilla protein latte and sugar-free caramel protein matcha. Despite being advertised as sugar-free, these beverages contain significant sugar content, equivalent to popular chocolate bars. The issue lies in Starbucks’ labeling practices, as federal laws in the U.S. and Canada set strict criteria for products to be labeled as “sugar-free.”
The lawsuit seeks damages for false advertising and violations of consumer protection laws. It aims to represent consumers who purchased Starbucks’ sugar-free drinks, highlighting concerns about health implications for individuals avoiding sugar, such as those with diabetes. The case raises questions about the accuracy of labeling practices in the food and beverage industry.