Starbucks is embroiled in a lawsuit concerning its “sugar-free” protein drinks, with claims that some of these beverages contain nearly as much sugar as a candy bar. This class-action lawsuit, introduced on October 2 in federal court in Washington state, focuses on eight Starbucks protein drinks, both hot and iced, including the Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Latte, Sugar-Free Caramel Protein Latte, and protein matcha drinks.
The lawsuit highlights that a venti-sized serving of these drinks contains between 13 and 21 grams of sugar. It argues that a “reasonable consumer” would not expect a drink marketed as “sugar-free” to contain such sugar levels.
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Three consumers from California, New York, and Washington have brought forth the lawsuit seeking to prevent Starbucks from labeling products that contain sugar as “sugar-free.” Starbucks contests these claims.
“We believe these claims have no merit,” a Starbucks spokesperson expressed to Fox News Digital. “Starbucks consistently provides detailed information about its protein beverages, sugar-free options, customization choices, and nutritional content across all communication platforms,” the spokesperson added.
The company stated that sugar in their drinks derives naturally from protein-boosted milk rather than added sugars. They also emphasize using sugar-free syrups for flavoring. Nicolette Pace, a registered dietitian and diabetes educator based in New York, mentioned that lactose in milk is naturally occurring sugar. She noted that “sugar-free” and “no added sugar” have different meanings.
“‘Sugar-free’ does not automatically mean zero sugar intake,” explained Dr. Michael Aziz, an internist at Lenox Hill Hospital, New York City. Under FDA regulations, “sugar-free” products must have less than 0.5 grams of sugar per serving.
Starbucks argues that their protein drinks labeled as “sugar-free” are in compliance, emphasizing that naturally occurring sugars can still impact blood glucose levels.
Ohio-based class-action attorney Danny Karon, uninvolved in the case, stated, “The plaintiffs argue they paid a premium for ‘sugar-free’ drinks, relying on Starbucks’ purported misrepresentations.”
Besides the highlighted protein drinks, Aziz and Pace emphasized that other Starbucks specialty drinks also contain substantial sugar quantities. A venti Java Chip Frappuccino, for instance, can have nearly 80 grams of sugar, roughly equivalent to 20 teaspoons. They also mentioned the Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino and seasonal favorites like the Peppermint Mocha and Pumpkin Spice Latte as significant in sugar content.
Dr. Aziz noted, “Size is significant, especially at Starbucks,” pointing to the American Heart Association’s guideline of limiting added sugar to 6 teaspoons per day for most women and 9 teaspoons for men.
Pace stressed this limit applies to added sugars and not the lactose naturally found in milk. She advised consumers to consider a simpler, smaller-sized order if aiming to reduce sugar intake.
Aziz concluded, “If you treat yourself, maybe opt for a simple latte or cappuccino.”
Deirdre Bardolf reports on lifestyle topics for Fox News Digital.