Updated March 4, 2026, 8:23 p.m. ET
In a recent outspoken challenge, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., hailing from Massachusetts, has confronted the state’s cherished coffee brand, Dunkin’. His focus is on the safety of sugary drinks, provoking a spirited discussion with the governor.
During a rally in Austin, Texas, Kennedy announced his intention to push coffee chains, including Starbucks, to provide evidence supporting the safety of their ingredients, particularly the high sugar levels in popular beverages.
“We’re going to ask Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks, ‘Show us the safety data that shows that it’s OK for a teenage girl to drink an iced coffee with 115 grams of sugar in it,’” Kennedy remarked. “I don’t think they’re gonna be able to do it.”
Kennedy’s remarks sparked a witty response from Massachusetts Democratic Governor Maura Healey, who took to X to share a playful twist on the iconic “Come and Take It” flag, initially used in the Texas Revolution.
In her version, the original cannon was humorously substituted with a Dunkin’ cup, showcasing a lighthearted defense of the coffee brand’s cultural significance in Massachusetts.
While the banter showcased regional pride, the Department of Health and Human Services clarified that Kennedy’s challenge is rooted in serious policy considerations. According to a statement to USA TODAY, the secretary’s focus is on ensuring America’s food supply remains “transparent and grounded in rigorous science.”
“Americans deserve to know what is in their food and to have confidence that ingredients are evaluated through a clear, science-based process,” emphasized the agency.
RFK Jr. has pushed to change how Americans eat
The altercation with Dunkin’ exemplifies Kennedy’s broader initiative to transform American eating habits, a pivotal focus of his role at the Department of Health and Human Services.
In January, the federal government introduced a new set of dietary guidelines that emphasized protein and healthy fats while significantly reducing the emphasis on grains, marking a substantial shift from decades of previous nutrition advice.
“As Secretary of Health and Human Services, my message is clear: Eat real food,” Kennedy stated, characterizing this shift as “the most significant reset of federal nutrition policy in history.”
Key Takeaways
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is actively questioning the safety of sugary beverages offered by major coffee chains.
- His challenge emphasizes the need for transparency in food safety regulations.
- Governor Maura Healey defended Dunkin’ with humor, showcasing Massachusetts’ affection for the brand.
- The Department of Health and Human Services supports Kennedy’s focus on science-based evaluations of food ingredients.
- A new set of dietary guidelines has shifted the emphasis toward protein and healthy fats.
FAQ
What is the main concern regarding sugary drinks?
The concern centers around the high sugar content and its implications for health, particularly in teenagers.
How has Kennedy responded to Dunkin’s menu?
He has challenged them to provide safety data for their sugary beverages.
What changes have been made to the dietary guidelines?
The new guidelines prioritize protein and healthy fats while minimizing grains.
USA TODAY’s Mary Walrath-Holdridge contributed to this report.
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@gannett.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.
