Starbucks Faces Lawsuit Over 'Sugar-Free' Protein Drink Labeling

A lawsuit has been filed against Starbucks, alleging that eight of its protein drinks are mislabeled as "sugar-free." The coffee giant introduced its line of protein drinks in September 2025, aiming to meet growing consumer demand for functional beverages and compete with rivals like Dutch Bros, which had launched similar protein-enhanced coffee drinks in 2024. The legal action highlights scrutiny over product labeling and marketing in the functional beverage market.