Starbucks is facing a legal challenge over allegations that its protein beverages labeled as “sugar-free” actually contain significant amounts of sugar. The lawsuit, filed in a Seattle federal court, claims that eight protein drinks at the coffee chain contain between 13 and 21 grams of sugar per venti-size serving due to the naturally occurring sugar in milk. The lawsuit accuses Starbucks of taking advantage of the “protein craze” and customer preferences for nutrition. Starbucks has defended itself, stating that it has provided clear information about its beverages and intends to vigorously defend against the claims.
The beverages in question include sugar-free vanilla protein latte, sugar-free caramel protein latte, sugar-free vanilla protein matcha, sugar-free caramel protein matcha, iced sugar-free vanilla protein latte, iced sugar-free caramel protein latte, iced sugar-free vanilla protein matcha, and iced sugar-free caramel protein matcha. These drinks are available on both U.S. and Starbucks Canada websites under the “protein beverages” category, with each labeled as “sugar-free.”
Despite the presence of naturally occurring sugar in milk, the lawsuit argues that calling these beverages “sugar-free” is misleading to consumers. U.S. federal law prohibits using the term “sugar-free” for beverages with more than 0.5 grams of sugar per 12-ounce serving, while Canadian regulations require less than 0.5 grams of sugars per reference amount for a product to be labeled as sugar-free.
The complaint 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. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of consumers who purchased Starbucks’s sugar-free protein drinks in California, New York, and Washington. Steve Berman, a co-founder of the firm behind the lawsuit, emphasized the significance of accurate labeling for individuals who avoid sugar for health reasons, likening beverages with high sugar content to drinking a candy bar.