Lawsuit Alleges Starbucks Misled Consumers Over Sugar in Eight Protein Drinks
A federal class-action lawsuit filed in Seattle alleges that eight protein beverages labeled by Starbucks as sugar-free actually contain sugar.
Starbucks is facing a federal class-action lawsuit filed in Seattle alleging that eight protein beverages labeled as "sugar-free" in its cafes actually contain sugar.
Details of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit was filed in federal court by the Hagens Berman law firm on behalf of three consumers who purchased these drinks in California, New York, and Washington. The complaint argues that Starbucks' marketing and naming strategy is false, deceptive, and unlawful.
Sugar Content in the Drinks
According to the company's U.S. website menu on Monday, a 16-ounce Sugar-Free Caramel Protein Matcha contains 16 grams of sugar, while the 20-ounce version contains 21 grams. For comparison, a single Reese's Peanut Butter Cup contains 11 grams of sugar.
Company Defense and Demands
A Starbucks spokesperson stated that the claims have no merit and that the company will vigorously defend itself, noting that sugar is not added to the drinks but comes from the protein-fortified milk used. The lawsuit seeks damages on behalf of U.S. consumers and demands an end to the use of the sugar-free label on products containing sugar.