Full Breakdown
Kennedy Questions Sugar Content in Dunkin' Drinks Amid Backlash
3/7/2026, 7:51:49 PM
Health Concerns Raised by Kennedy
U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has sparked controversy by questioning the safety of high-sugar beverages sold by Dunkin' and Starbucks. During a rally in Austin, Texas, on February 26, 2026, Kennedy announced plans to request safety data from these coffee chains regarding drinks that contain excessive amounts of sugar, specifically citing iced coffees with up to 115 grams of sugar. He stated, “I don’t think they’re gonna be able to do it,” implying that such high sugar levels may not be safe for consumers, particularly teenagers.
Kennedy's comments gained traction online, leading to a response from Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, who defended Dunkin' by sharing an image on social media that referenced the historical "Come and Take It" flag, humorously suggesting that no one is taking away Dunkin'. In response, Kennedy reiterated his concerns, asking, “But isn’t it reasonable to ask whether a drink loaded with 180 grams of sugar is safe?”
Sugar Content in Dunkin' Beverages
The nutritional information from Dunkin' indicates that while no drinks contain 180 grams of sugar, several options exceed 100 grams. For instance, a large Butter Pecan Swirl Frozen Coffee contains 172 grams of sugar, and a large Triple Mocha Frozen Coffee has 165 grams. Other drinks, such as the Strawberry Dragonfruit Lemonade Refresher and Blueberry Cobbler Iced Latte, contain 72 grams and 50 grams of sugar, respectively. The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars to no more than 36 grams per day for men and 25 grams for women, highlighting the significant disparity between these recommendations and the sugar content in Dunkin' beverages.
Public Reaction and Criticism
Kennedy's remarks have drawn mixed reactions. Many Dunkin' fans, particularly in Massachusetts, have expressed their discontent, viewing his comments as an attack on a beloved local institution. Some customers have voiced surprise at the sugar content in their drinks, with one stating that discovering over 50 grams of sugar was “crazy.” Critics argue that transparency about sugar content is essential, advocating for clear labeling rather than restrictions on popular beverages.
Medical experts have weighed in on the health implications of high sugar consumption, linking it to obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Dr. Celine Gounder, a CBS News medical contributor, emphasized that ultra-processed foods and beverages pose health risks, stating, “Your go-to beverage really shouldn't be liquid candy.”
Official Statements & Responses
Kennedy's push for ingredient transparency aligns with the new U.S. Dietary Guidelines, which advocate for reduced sugar intake and a focus on whole foods. A spokesperson for Kennedy's department noted that the guidelines recommend limiting added sugars to no more than 10 grams per meal, a threshold that most Dunkin' drinks exceed.
Despite the backlash, Kennedy remains firm in his stance, asserting that it is reasonable to question the safety of high-sugar drinks. He has also called for a review of the "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) policy, which allows food companies to bypass certain regulatory requirements, potentially compromising consumer safety.
What's Next
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how Dunkin' and Starbucks will respond to Kennedy's requests for safety data. The controversy highlights broader concerns about sugar consumption in the U.S. and the need for greater transparency in food and beverage marketing.
