Starbucks is facing a lawsuit alleging false advertising on its protein beverages labeled as “sugar-free.” The lawsuit claims that despite being marketed as such, these drinks actually contain between 13 and 21 grams of sugar per venti-size serving due to the natural sugar in milk. The lawsuit, filed in a Seattle federal court, accuses Starbucks of exploiting the protein trend and consumer preferences.
The company’s spokesperson has denied the allegations, stating that Starbucks has been transparent about the nutritional content and customization options of its beverages. The lawsuit questions whether the labeling of these drinks is misleading, considering the actual sugar content present in them.
The lawsuit highlights that the U.S. federal law restricts the use of “sugar-free” for beverages with more than 0.5 grams of sugar per 12-ounce serving, even if the sugar is from milk. Similarly, in Canada, products labeled as sugar-free must contain less than 0.5 grams of sugars per specified serving size.
Starbucks introduced these protein beverages in September 2025, targeting customers seeking more protein options. While the drinks are listed under “no added sugar options,” they are currently marketed as “sugar-free.” The lawsuit seeks damages for false advertising and violations of consumer protection laws, aiming to represent consumers who purchased these drinks in California, New York, and Washington.