RFK Jr. Faces Criticism for Questioning Safety of Dunkin’, Starbucks Drinks

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently sparked considerable debate after raising concerns about the safety of high-sugar iced coffee drinks sold at Dunkin’ and Starbucks. His comments have met with significant backlash, including from the governor of Massachusetts, who quickly defended the beloved beverage brands.

During an “Eat Real Food” rally in Austin, Texas, on February 26, Kennedy questioned, “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.”

He added, “I don’t think they’re gonna be able to do it.”

His remarks received immediate responses from various quarters in Massachusetts, where Dunkin’ holds a significant place in the culture.

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Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey took to X on Wednesday to defend the iconic New England beverage, posting an image of a flag displaying the slogan, “Come and take it.”

While some users on X criticized Healey for not advocating for healthier food standards, others supported her defense amid worries that the administration might target their favored drinks.

One user commented, “Maybe this regime needs to remember we take drinks VERY SERIOUSLY in New England,” sharing an image related to the 1773 Boston Tea Party.

Others playfully adapted the “Don’t tread on me” motto to say, “Donut tread on me.”

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The Department of Health and Human Services has not yet responded to FOX Business’ inquiry regarding any plans to restrict beverages at Dunkin’ or other coffee chains.

Dunkin’ and Starbucks also did not provide immediate comments to request for their perspectives on the issue.

MAHA Action, a nonprofit organization part of the “Make America Healthy Again” movement, released a statement following the event, highlighting that Kennedy had mentioned closing a loophole in the “Generally Recognized As Safe” (GRAS) food ingredient approval program. This program has allowed companies to self-certify certain ingredients as safe for a long time.

The organization pointed out that “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 globally,” the statement said.

Kennedy has advocated for changes to the GRAS system since his appointment and confirmation, as noted by The Boston Globe. This category was initially created to ease approval for the use of common ingredients.

However, the scope of the system has expanded to include thousands of newer ingredients found in ultra-processed foods, according to media reports.

This renewed scrutiny on sugary drinks occurs alongside Kennedy’s broader initiative to transform the country’s food supply.

Find more updates on this story at FOXBusiness.com.

Key Takeaways

• Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. challenged the safety of high-sugar iced coffee drinks from Dunkin’ and Starbucks.
• His comments led to backlash from both consumers and Massachusetts officials.
• The governor of Massachusetts defended the beverage chains on social media.
• MAHA Action announced plans to tighten regulations on high-sugar beverages.
• Kennedy is pushing for reforms in the food safety approval process.

FAQ

What prompted Kennedy’s comments about sugary drinks?

His remarks came during a rally focused on promoting healthier food options.

How did officials react to Kennedy’s statements?

The governor of Massachusetts publicly defended Dunkin’ and Starbucks against the criticism.

What changes are being proposed regarding food safety?

Kennedy aims to reform the GRAS system, requiring companies to provide safety data for certain ingredients.

The ongoing discussion reflects a growing interest in food safety and consumer health in the U.S.