Starbucks sued in the US over 'sugar-free' protein drinks

Starbucks was sued by US consumers who accuse the chain of falsely advertising eight protein drinks as "sugar-free" even though they contain lactose, a sugar naturally present in milk. A proposed class action filed on October 2, 2026, in a Seattle federal court states that consumers would not expect to find 13 to 21 grams of sugar in 20-ounce or 24-ounce Venti versions of drinks marketed with that label.

The lawsuit alleges that federal regulations prohibit Starbucks from using the phrase "sugar-free" to describe beverages containing more than 0.5 grams of sugar per 12-ounce (355 ml) serving. The plaintiffs accuse the company of trying to capitalize on the 75% of Americans who want to reduce or eliminate their sugar intake. The filing also claims the company omitted federally required disclosures stating that the protein drinks are not low-calorie foods and are not intended for weight control.

The complaint alleges deceptive advertising and violations of state consumer protection laws, seeking unspecified damages. Starbucks, based in Seattle, did not immediately comment on Monday, October 5, 2026, nor did the consumers' attorney.

The eight items named in the suit include the hot and iced versions of the sugar-free Vanilla Protein Latte, Caramel Protein Latte, Vanilla Protein Matcha, and Caramel Protein Matcha. On the Starbucks website, the drinks are described as high in protein and made without added sugar, while Venti sizes contain between 270 and 340 calories. Starbucks launched the line in September 2025 as part of its "Back to Starbucks" menu update.