Starbucks Faces Lawsuit Over 'Sugar-Free' Labeling Claims

The legal action, initiated on behalf of consumers in California, New York, and Washington, contends that the “sugar-free” branding is inherently misleading regardless of the company’s nutritional disclosures. Plaintiffs seek monetary damages and a court order to prevent Starbucks from utilizing this labeling on products that contain significant sugar levels.

Starbucks has denied the allegations, maintaining that its nutritional data is transparent and accessible to all customers. The company asserts that the sugar content cited in the lawsuit originates naturally from the protein-boosted milk used in the drinks rather than from added sweeteners. According to the company, these products utilize sugar-free syrups, and they intend to defend their labeling practices vigorously in court.