In a recent rally, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sparked considerable debate after questioning the safety of high-sugar iced coffee beverages from Dunkin’ and Starbucks. His comments have since generated a strong response from various groups, including local officials in Massachusetts.
Kennedy stated during the “Eat Real Food” event in Austin, Texas, 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 further remarked.
The backlash was swift, especially in Massachusetts, the birthplace of Dunkin’, where the brand is deeply embedded in local culture.
STARBUCKS TO OPEN NEW OFFICE IN NASHVILLE, MOVE SOME JOBS FROM SEATTLE
Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey took to social media to defend the regional favorite, sharing an image of a flag with the slogan, “Come and take it.”
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)
While some users criticized Healey on social platforms, advocating for healthier food standards, many expressed support for her stance, fearing that regulations could affect their beloved drinks.
One individual remarked, “Maybe this regime needs to remember we take drinks VERY SERIOUSLY in New England,” accompanied by an illustration of the historic Boston Tea Party.
Others humorously altered the “Don’t tread on me” motto to “Donut tread on me.”
BURGER KING MAKES CHANGES TO SIGNATURE WHOPPER FOR FIRST TIME IN NEARLY A DECADE
The Department of Health and Human Services has yet to respond to inquiries regarding whether any measures will be enacted to curb beverage options at Dunkin’ or other coffee chains.
Dunkin’ and Starbucks also did not provide immediate comments to FOX Business.
MAHA Action, a nonprofit aligned with the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, issued a statement following Kennedy’s remarks. They announced a plan to close a loophole in the “Generally Recognized As Safe” (GRAS) system, which has allowed companies to self-certify particular ingredients.
The organization stated, “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 adhere to the highest safety and nutritional standards globally.”
Kennedy has advocated for changes to the GRAS system since his appointment, as reported by The Boston Globe. The category was initially created to minimize the approval process for common ingredients.
However, the list has expanded significantly over time to include various ingredients used in ultra-processed foods.
Kennedy’s renewed focus on sugary beverages coincides with his broader initiative to revamp the food supply across the nation.
Find more updates on this story at FOXBusiness.com.
Key Takeaways
- Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. questioned the safety of high-sugar iced coffee drinks from Dunkin’ and Starbucks.
- His remarks prompted a strong backlash from officials and the public, particularly in Massachusetts.
- Governor Maura Healey defended Dunkin’ and the cultural significance of the brand.
- MAHA Action plans to reform the GRAS system, requiring safety data from companies.
- The renewed scrutiny of sugary beverages is part of a broader initiative by Kennedy to improve food safety standards.
FAQ
Why did Robert F. Kennedy Jr. question sugary drinks?
He called for safety data to support claims about high-sugar iced coffee drinks being safe for teenagers.
How did Massachusetts officials respond?
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey defended Dunkin’ and emphasized the cultural importance of the brand.
What changes are being proposed?
There are proposals to close loopholes in the GRAS system, requiring companies to produce safety data for certain ingredients.
Are Dunkin’ and Starbucks facing regulations?
The Department of Health and Human Services has not confirmed if any regulations will be implemented regarding their beverages.
