Readers Share Reactions to RFK Jr.’s Comments on Dunkin’

“Healy is completely irresponsible for politicizing this,” stated Kris of Wakefield. “Why would she not want to join the fight for better food and health in this state!”

Many readers also defended Dunkin’, arguing that it should not be singled out, especially as it is a beloved brand in New England.

“We all need a little sugar in our lives,” wrote Mike. “We have enough bitterness in our politicians.”

Others offered firm support for the brand.

“He has no business sticking his nose in Dunkin,” stated Milton from Tyngsborough, while Gene D. from Maine bluntly added, “Give me Dunkin or give me death!”

Below, readers share their thoughts on RFK Jr.’s remarks toward Dunkin’.

Responses have been lightly edited for grammar and clarity.

Yes, I do!

“I am not a fan of RFK, Jr., and I do agree with him on this. The amount of sugar in those drinks is insane, and frankly, any time I go to pick up a coffee, there are tweens and teens hanging out and ordering large drinks. They don’t realize the calories and sugar in them, and these chains need to be more transparent.” — Stephanie M., Lynnfield

“I love Dunkin and that it is local. But Dunkins, MaryLou’s, Starbucks, etc. have drinks (and food) that are absolutely gross from a health perspective. The amount of sugar and caffeine in the drinks is wild, not to mention the food coloring and more. Should we ban them? NO way. But we do need to ensure that people are aware of the impacts. Public health is about educating the public as much as we can around the dangers of these issues. We still have free choice, but education leads to better signage, understanding, and options.” — Steve, Brookline

“Healthy food and drink should be something we can all agree on. We are a very unhealthy society due to our diet. Everyone knows that things need to change for the better. People get upset simply because this administration says it, no matter what it is. People would be all for health if it was a [Democratic-led] administration. Enough is enough. Let’s put emotions aside and use common sense.” — Jose, Boston

“I believe the government shouldn’t dictate decisions on what we eat/put in our bodies, I do believe a spotlight could be put on some of the ingredients going into these products. Go ahead and drink a Coolatta with 150 grams of sugar in it, but keep this in mind when you ask the government to reduce the cost of insulin.” — Bill C., South Shore

“This is not an attack on Dunkin; this is an attack on over-sugared foods. In a country where health issues like obesity, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and insulin resistance run rampant, Gov. Healey needs to think twice about inserting herself into this argument.” — Abe S., Hyde Park

“I am a middle school teacher. I see kids walking into school each morning with drinks that equal 5-6 cups of coffee and a bag of chips and gummy worms for breakfast. It can’t be good for their brains and developing bodies.” — Will W., Wellesley

“I agree with RFK Jr. because some, not all, of the drinks on the menu at the fast casual coffee chains are absurdly over-served with sugar which isn’t healthy for anyone, young or old.” — Brad, Hyannis

“His war on ultraprocessed food is about the only thing I agree with RFK Jr. on. But it seems increasingly clear that large quantities of processed sugar is not healthy and linked to the epidemic of metabolic disease in this country. Not to mention many other chronic conditions. So yes, we should focus on cleaning up the food supply for the health of our people.” — J.B., Boston

“I don’t agree with his take on vaccines, but his focus on nutrition and holding accountable the companies who profit from pushing this unhealthy overpriced garbage is right on the money.” — David, Worcester

Nope

“Dunkin provides their nutritional information on their website. While some of their products are very unhealthy to consume regularly, the government should not dictate what people should be allowed to consume unless Dunkin is providing a product that is toxic and harmful to the public. People should be allowed to enjoy them in moderation if they so desire. Requiring a federal mandate for food establishments to advertise calorie information next to the menu items would be a reasonable compromise rather than banning the sale of the items.” — Anonymous reader, Winthrop

“Will there be any guarantees that another company won’t incorporate itself to supply iced, sugary beverages to this same demographic market? How about targeting ‘Big Gulp’ or ‘Slushies’ at Cumberland Farms and 7-Eleven stores? Why does he allow supermarkets to stock large bags of bulk candy? Where does JFK, Jr. stop with his Big Brother approach to sugar? Educate the parents to halt the funds that their kids use to buy at these places.” — Charles T., Miami, Florida (formerly of Stoughton)

“He is not a medical doctor and should be removed from office. He has no basis for the blanket statements he makes about coffee, sugar, Tylenol, and vaccines.” — Taysley, Salisbury

“It is not the federal government’s role to single out businesses and tell them what to do outside of the realm of specific federal laws or adopted regulations. RFK is right about sugar and the majority of Americans already know that. Attacking a business functioning within all laws and regulations accomplished nothing except PR.” — Stephen M., North Andover

“I don’t think iced drinks with lots of flavoring are healthy, and I don’t think teens should be drinking any form of coffee — but to each their own. You can name 300 things teens have access to that are not healthy. I don’t want the government regulating my diet.” — Billy W., Chicopee

“Is he going after Coke, Pepsi, Mountain Dew and all the corporate crap that’s out there? No, of course not. This is a way to try and stick it to Massachusetts. No love lost from RFK Jr. towards this state.” — Paula W., Wendell

“This is not the government’s job to legislate how much sweets people eat. Parents need to teach their kids healthy eating habits… We eat sweet treats on special occasions, even stopping at a Starbucks for a drink if we’re doing a road trip, but there’s no way anyone in our family would make it a part of our daily or even weekly routine.” — Monta, San Diego, California

“Dunkin offers other options. You can get drinks without sugar or use sugar-free syrup or a sugar substitute. Also, they have almond milk instead of cream. Consumer choice! DD is not responsible for people’s choices.” — Lisa H., Burlington, Vermont

Boston.com occasionally interacts with readers by conducting informal polls and surveys. These results should be read as an unscientific gauge of readers’ opinions.

Key Takeaways

• Public opinion is nearly evenly split on Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s critique of sugary coffee drinks.
• 51% of respondents supported Kennedy, while 49% did not.
• Many readers see a need for greater awareness about the health impacts of sugary drinks for youths.
• Criticism arose about politicizing the issue rather than focusing on health.
• Defenders of Dunkin argue for personal choice and accountability in consumption.
• Concerns were raised about the role of government in regulating dietary choices.

FAQ

What sparked the discussion around sugary coffee drinks?

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. criticized the safety of high-sugar iced coffee drinks during a public rally, prompting Boston.com to seek reader opinions.

What were the results of the informal poll?

Out of over 770 readers, 51% agreed with Kennedy’s remarks, while 49% disagreed.

What are some reader responses to Kennedy’s comments?

Responses varied, with some supporting his critique of sugar, while others felt government involvement is inappropriate.

Is Dunkin the only coffee chain targeted in this discussion?

No, the dialogue reflects broader concerns about sugary beverages across various coffee chains and brands.

What alternatives does Dunkin offer?

Dunkin provides options for sugar-free syrups and alternative milk, encouraging consumer choice.

Annie Jonas is a Community writer at Boston.com. She was previously a local editor at Patch and a freelancer at the Financial Times.