Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has challenged two major coffee chains, Dunkin' and Starbucks, to prove the safety of their high-sugar drinks for teenagers as part of his 'Make America Healthy Again' initiative.
Key Takeaways
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has challenged Dunkin' and Starbucks to prove the safety of their high-sugar drinks for teenagers, as part of his 'Make America Healthy Again' initiative.
- RFK Jr. calls on Dunkin' and Starbucks to provide safety data for sugary drinks
- Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey responds with defiance on social media
- Federal dietary guidelines recommend no more than 10 grams of added sugar per meal, but most Dunkin' drinks exceed this amount
- Studies show taxes and photo warnings reduce consumption of sugary drinks
Kennedy recently called on the companies to provide safety data showing that it is safe for teenage girls to consume iced coffees with high sugar content. He expressed doubt that these companies would be able to meet this standard, according to multiple reports.
The challenge comes as federal dietary guidelines recommend meals should have no more than 10 grams of added sugar. Nearly every drink on the Dunkin' menu exceeds this amount, and at least six have more than 100 grams of sugar, per CBS News. Studies indicate that taxes on sugary drinks and photo warnings can reduce consumption.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey responded to Kennedy's challenge with a defiant post on X, featuring an image of a Dunkin' cup with the caption 'COME AND TAKE IT'. Many New England residents also expressed their support for Dunkin' on social media. The Department of Health and Human Services has stated that it is focused on ensuring transparency in the American food supply.
Dunkin' and Starbucks have not yet responded to Kennedy's comments, though Dunkin' recently announced the release of a zero-sugar energy drink available in six flavors. The full scope of Kennedy's plan for addressing sugary drinks remains unclear, as does any potential action by the Trump administration.
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