Consumers Sue Starbucks Over Sugar-Free Protein Drink Claims

Consumers filed a proposed class action lawsuit against Starbucks on October 2, alleging the company falsely advertised eight protein beverages as sugar-free. The complaint, filed in Seattle federal court, asserts that the drinks contain between 13g and 21g of lactose sugar per venti serving.

This labeling allegedly violates federal law, which prohibits the use of the sugar-free label for products containing more than 0.5g of sugar per 12-ounce serving. The lawsuit further claims the company failed to provide required disclaimers regarding low-calorie status and weight control.

The affected products were launched in September 2025 as part of a menu update and include Matcha drinks as well as Caramel and Vanilla Protein Lattes. The plaintiffs are seeking unspecified damages for violations of state consumer protection laws and false advertising.