A recent class-action lawsuit in the U.S. is challenging Starbucks for allegedly mislabeling some of its protein beverages as “sugar-free.” The lawsuit claims that eight protein drinks advertised as “sugar-free” actually contain between 13 and 21 grams of sugar per venti-size serving due to the natural sugar in milk. Starbucks is accused of taking advantage of the protein trend and customer preferences for nutritional products.
The lawsuit, filed in a Seattle federal court, argues that Starbucks’ labeling of these beverages as “sugar-free” is misleading and deceptive. For instance, a venti Sugar-Free Caramel Protein Matcha contains about 21 grams of sugar, equivalent to nearly five teaspoons of sugar or the amount in a standard Kit Kat bar.
Starbucks has defended its labeling practices, stating that it has provided clear information about its protein beverages, sugar-free options, and nutritional content. The company intends to vigorously defend itself against the lawsuit’s claims.
The lawsuit lists eight drinks, including sugar-free vanilla protein latte, sugar-free caramel protein latte, and others, available on both U.S. and Canadian Starbucks websites. While the drinks are categorized under “no added sugar options,” they are labeled as “sugar-free.”
The issue raised by the lawsuit is not the origin of the sugar but the misleading labeling of the beverages as “sugar-free.” U.S. federal law prohibits beverages with more than 0.5 grams of sugar per 12-ounce serving from being labeled as “sugar-free,” even if the sugar naturally occurs in milk.
The complaint seeks damages for false advertising and violations of consumer protection laws. Starbucks faces allegations of mislabeling its sugar-free protein drinks, which could mislead consumers, especially those avoiding sugar for health reasons.