nuOct 6, 2026, 18:04

Eight 'sugar-free' Starbucks drinks contain sugar, spark lawsuit

Starbucks is facing a lawsuit alleging that eight drinks labeled as sugar-free actually contain significant amounts of sugar. While the plaintiffs claim the marketing is misleading, Starbucks argues the sugar is naturally present in the protein-enriched milk used and not an added ingredient.

A lawsuit has been filed against Starbucks regarding eight protein-based drinks marketed as sugar-free. The legal complaint alleges that these vanilla and caramel-flavored hot and iced lattes, along with matcha beverages, actually contain between 13 and 21 grams of sugar per serving. According to the plaintiffs, this amount of sugar is comparable to that found in a Kit Kat bar, leading them to argue that the company's branding is false and misleading. The lawsuit seeks financial compensation for affected consumers and a court order to prevent Starbucks from labeling these products as sugar-free.

In its defense, Starbucks maintains that it has not misled its customers. The coffee chain asserts that the sugar content is naturally occurring within the protein-enriched milk used in the drinks rather than being added as an ingredient. The company further stated that it utilizes sugar-free syrups to provide flavor without increasing the sugar content of the beverages.

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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