Starbucks sued over ‘Sugar-Free’ protein drinks
Consumers allege Starbucks misled customers by marketing eight protein beverages as sugar-free despite their lactose content, while the company says the claims have no merit.
USA – Starbucks has been sued by consumers who allege the coffee chain falsely marketed eight protein beverages as “sugar-free” despite the drinks containing lactose, a naturally occurring sugar in milk.
A proposed class action filed in federal court in Seattle claims reasonable consumers would not expect the beverages to contain between 13 and 21 grams of sugar in a 20- or 24-ounce venti serving.
The complaint alleges that federal law prohibits Starbucks from describing beverages as “sugar-free” when they contain more than 0.5 grams of sugar per 12-ounce serving.
The consumers accuse Starbucks of seeking to capitalise on demand from Americans looking to reduce or eliminate sugar from their diets. They also allege the company failed to provide federally required disclaimers stating that the protein beverages are not low-calorie foods or intended for weight control.
“Starbucks has consistently and clearly provided information about its protein beverages, sugar-free options, customization choices, and nutritional content across product announcements, menus, marketing materials, Starbucks.com and the Starbucks app, and we intend to vigorously defend ourselves,” the spokesperson told Reuters.
The complaint seeks unspecified damages for alleged false advertising and violations of various state consumer protection laws. A lawyer representing the consumers did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The beverages named in the lawsuit include Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Latte, Sugar-Free Caramel Protein Latte, Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Matcha and Sugar-Free Caramel Protein Matcha, along with iced versions.
Starbucks’ website describes the drinks as “protein-packed” and says they contain “no added sugar”. However, the nutritional information shows that the beverages contain sugars, with venti servings ranging from 270 to 340 calories.
Starbucks launched the protein beverages in September 2025 as part of its updated “Back to Starbucks” menu. The company has promoted sugar-free options alongside customisation choices and nutritional information for customers.
The lawsuit adds to a wider wave of litigation involving food and beverage companies over alleged sugar-related marketing claims. Food producers have faced numerous cases challenging “sugar-free” and “zero sugar” claims involving products containing allulose, a sugar substitute.
Starbucks has also faced consumer criticism over other recent product changes. Earlier this year, the company reformulated its chai latte recipe, prompting complaints from some customers over changes in taste and petitions calling for the previous formula to return.
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