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In a recent rally held in Austin, Texas, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. raised eyebrows by questioning the safety of high-sugar iced coffee beverages commonly found at Dunkin’ and Starbucks. His comments sparked significant reaction, particularly from officials in Massachusetts, where Dunkin’ is a cherished establishment.
Kennedy stated at the “Eat Real Food” event on February 26, “We’re going to ask Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks, ‘Show us the safety data that show that it’s OK for a teenage girl to drink an iced coffee with 115 grams of sugar in it.”
“I don’t think they’re gonna be able to do it,” he added, indicating skepticism about the availability of such data.
The comments quickly drew attention in Massachusetts, where Dunkin’ originated and holds cultural significance.
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Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. raised concerns about sugary beverages during an Austin, Texas, rally on Feb. 26, 2026. (Jason Mendez/Getty Images; iStock / Getty Images)
Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey responded promptly on X, sharing a flag image with the message, “Come and take it,” to defend the regional favorite.
On social media, reactions were mixed; some users urged the governor to advocate for healthier food standards, while others supported her in light of concerns that their beloved beverages could come under scrutiny.
“Maybe this regime needs to remember we take drinks VERY SERIOUSLY in New England,” one user commented, including an image referencing the 1773 Boston Tea Party.
Some humorously altered a well-known slogan to read, “Donut tread on me.”
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Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. referenced Dunkin’ while discussing potential scrutiny of high-sugar beverages. (Paul Weaver/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images / Getty Images)
The Department of Health and Human Services has not yet replied to FOX Business regarding whether regulations will be implemented to limit sugar-laden beverages at Dunkin’ or other coffee chains.
Neither Dunkin’ nor Starbucks has commented on the matter so far.
Following the event, MAHA Action, a nonprofit focused on the “Make America Healthy Again” campaign, announced Kennedy’s plans to close a loophole in the “Generally Recognized As Safe” (GRAS) ingredient approval system. This long-standing program permits companies to self-certify the safety of certain food ingredients.
“Companies including Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks will be required to produce safety data they were supposed to have maintained. The reforms aim to ensure American foods meet the highest safety and nutritional standards worldwide,” the organization stated.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. suggested that companies such as Dunkin’ and Starbucks may need to demonstrate the safety of certain high-sugar drinks under stricter federal scrutiny. (Zhang Peng/LightRocket via Getty Images / Getty Images)
Kennedy has been advocating for reforms to the GRAS system since his appointment, as reported by The Boston Globe. Originally designed to streamline the process for common ingredients, the system’s scope has broadened to encompass thousands of new ingredients, especially those in ultra-processed foods.
The emphasis on these sugary drinks aligns with Kennedy’s wider initiative to transform the country’s food landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. questioned the safety of high-sugar iced coffees from Dunkin’ and Starbucks.
- His comments triggered a defensive reaction from Massachusetts officials and coffee enthusiasts.
- The HHS may require companies to produce safety data for certain ingredients, enhancing regulatory scrutiny.
- MAHA Action supports reforms aimed at strict food safety and nutritional standards.
- The GRAS system will undergo revisions, impacting how companies certify food ingredient safety.
FAQ
What sparked the controversy around iced coffee drinks?
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. questioned the safety data for high-sugar iced coffees sold at Dunkin’ and Starbucks, which led to backlash, especially in Massachusetts.
What is the GRAS system?
The GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) system allows companies to self-certify certain food ingredients, but it is being reformed to close existing loopholes.
How are Massachusetts officials reacting?
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey defended Dunkin’, emphasizing the beverage’s cultural importance, and some users criticized her for not promoting healthier standards.
What are the goals of the reforms proposed by MAHA Action?
MAHA Action aims to ensure that American food products meet higher safety and nutritional standards through stricter regulations.
This growing discourse emphasizes the need for transparency in food and beverage safety, echoing broader movements toward reforming food systems in the United States. As discussions continue, consumers may see changes in how food and beverages are regulated in the future.
