Starbucks faces a lawsuit over alleged false advertising of its “sugar-free” protein beverages. The lawsuit claims that despite being labeled as “sugar-free,” eight protein drinks from Starbucks actually contain between 13 and 21 grams of sugar per venti serving due to the naturally occurring sugar in milk. The lawsuit, filed in a Seattle federal court, accuses Starbucks of misleading consumers to capitalize on the protein trend.
According to the lawsuit, the sugar content in these beverages is equivalent to several teaspoons of sugar, similar to what is found in a standard Kit Kat bar. Starbucks has defended its labeling, stating that they have provided clear information about their beverages’ nutritional content and customization options. The lawsuit questions whether the drinks are truly sugar-free and raises concerns about misleading labeling practices.
The drinks in question include sugar-free vanilla and caramel protein lattes and matcha, available on both U.S. and Starbucks Canada websites. Despite being listed under “no added sugar options,” each beverage is currently labeled as “sugar-free.” The lawsuit emphasizes that the issue lies in the discrepancy between the labeling and the actual sugar content, mainly from lactose in milk.
Consumer protection laws in the U.S. and Canada set limits on labeling products as “sugar-free,” requiring them to contain minimal sugar content. The lawsuit seeks damages for false advertising and violations of consumer protection laws. It also aims to have the lawsuit certified as a class action and demands a trial by jury. Consumers are advised to be cautious of product labeling and to scrutinize nutritional information to make informed choices.