A lawsuit claims Starbucks’ ‘sugar-free’ protein drinks aren’t what they seem — so we asked an expert

Starbucks is facing a proposed class-action lawsuit filed in Seattle federal court alleging that eight of its protein-enhanced beverages are deceptively marketed as 'sugar-free.' The lawsuit claims these drinks contain between 13 and 21 grams of sugar, exceeding federal labeling regulations for 'sugar-free' claims. Starbucks maintains that the labeling is accurate because the drinks contain no added sugars, noting that the sugar content stems from naturally occurring lactose in the milk used and that the 'sugar-free' designation refers to the syrups. The company has stated it intends to vigorously defend itself against the claims.

Starbucks is facing a proposed class-action lawsuit filed in Seattle federal court alleging that eight of its protein-enhanced beverages are deceptively marketed as 'sugar-free.' The lawsuit claims these drinks contain between 13 and 21 grams of sugar, exceeding federal labeling regulations for 'sugar-free' claims. Starbucks maintains that the labeling is accurate because the drinks contain no added sugars, noting that the sugar content stems from naturally occurring lactose in the milk used and that the 'sugar-free' designation refers to the syrups. The company has stated it intends to vigorously defend itself against the claims.