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Starbucks Pulls Blended Refreshers Powder After Union Pressure

8/28/2026

26 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Starbucks removed the Blended Refreshers powder from all U.S. stores after union pressure.
Baristas experienced headaches, coughing, sore throats, hives and asthma attacks from the powder’s fine dust.
Starbucks Workers United surveyed nearly 600 baristas and asked for silica safety data.
Professor Peter Orris warned the silica, gum arabic and xanthan gum can irritate lungs and urged ventilation and N95 masks.

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Story summary

Starbucks removed the Blended Refreshers powder from all U.S. stores after union pressure.
Baristas experienced headaches, coughing, sore throats, hives and asthma attacks from the powder’s fine dust.
Starbucks Workers United surveyed nearly 600 baristas and asked for silica safety data.
Professor Peter Orris warned the silica, gum arabic and xanthan gum can irritate lungs and urged ventilation and N95 masks.