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Starbucks faces class action over 'sugar-free' protein drink claims
The complaint alleges eight Starbucks protein beverages labeled sugar-free contain 13 to 21 grams of sugar per 20- or 24-ounce venti serving, and seek unspecified damages.
Starbucks is facing a proposed class action after consumers alleged the company falsely advertised eight protein beverages as “sugar-free,” even though they contain lactose, a naturally occurring sugar in milk, according to a filing made Oct. 2.
The complaint, filed in Seattle federal court, says consumers would not expect those “sugar-free” drinks to contain 13 to 21 grams of sugar per 20- or 24-ounce venti serving, and it alleges violations of false advertising and multiple state consumer protection laws.
The lawsuit also argues that federal rules prohibit using the term “sugar-free” for beverages containing more than 0.5 grams of sugar per 12-ounce serving, and accuses Starbucks of not providing federally required disclaimers that the protein beverages are not low-calorie food or meant for weight control.
Insurance Journal reported that the suit seeks unspecified damages and cites what it says is consumers’ interest in reducing or eliminating sugar intake.
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