Starbucks faces class-action suit over allegedly misleading "sugar-free" protein drinks

A proposed class action filed in Seattle federal court accuses Starbucks of falsely labeling eight of its protein beverages as “sugar-free.” The drinks, introduced in September 2025, contain lactose and between 13 g and 21 g of sugar per 20- or 24-ounce venti serving, surpassing the 0.5 g threshold for the “sugar-free” claim under federal law. Plaintiffs argue the company is capitalising on the fact that most Americans aim to reduce sugar intake and failed to include mandated warnings that the drinks are not low-calorie or intended for weight control.

The suit seeks unspecified damages for false advertising and breaches of various state consumer-protection laws. Starbucks, headquartered in Seattle, has not issued a comment, and the consumers’ attorney also did not respond. The beverages are marketed as “protein-packed” with “no added sugar,” and each venti serving contains 270-340 calories.