WATCH: Lawsuit accuses Starbucks of mislabeling 8 'sugar-free' protein drinks

A federal lawsuit has been filed against Starbucks alleging that the company mislabelled its sugar-free protein drinks. According to the lawsuit filed in Seattle, Starbucks sells eight beverages with "Sugar-Free" names that actually contain between 13 and 21 grams of sugar per serving. The plaintiffs argue that the mislabeling is false, deceptive, and unlawful, as many consumers avoid sugar for various health reasons.

Starbucks counters that the sugar in its protein drinks comes from protein milk and there is no added sugar, including in flavouring syrups. The company maintains that it has provided clear information about its sugar-free options and nutritional content across its marketing materials. The lawsuit was filed by Hagens Berman on behalf of three individuals from California, New York, and Washington who purchased the sugar-free drinks.