Starbucks sued for allegedly mislabeling 'sugar-free' protein drinks

Key Points:

• Starbucks is facing a proposed class-action lawsuit alleging it misleadingly markets eight protein beverages as "Sugar-Free," despite these drinks containing 13 to 21 grams of naturally occurring sugar from milk per venti serving.
• The lawsuit claims Starbucks' use of "Sugar-Free" violates FDA regulations, which require less than 0.5 grams of sugar per serving for such claims, and argues that the distinction between total sugar and added sugar does not justify the labeling.
• Plaintiffs also allege Starbucks fails to provide a required calorie disclaimer for these beverages, which contain approximately 270 to 340 calories per venti serving, under FDA rules for "sugar free" products not labeled low or reduced calorie.
• Starbucks denies the allegations, stating it provides clear nutritional information and intends to vigorously defend itself, while the plaintiffs seek damages, restitution, and an injunction against Starbucks using "Sugar-Free" labeling unless compliant.
• The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington by consumers from California, New York, and Washington, aiming to represent a nationwide class of purchasers of the eight protein beverages introduced in September 2025.