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HHS Chief RFK Jr. Challenges Dunkin’ and Starbucks to Show Safety Data on Sugary Drinks

HHS frames the remarks as part of a drive to tighten the GRAS pathway, requiring clearer ingredient safety disclosures.

Overview

  • At an Austin rally, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said he will ask Dunkin’ and Starbucks to provide evidence that drinks with up to 115 grams of sugar are safe for teens.
  • HHS said it is moving to strengthen oversight of the GRAS pathway, citing greater notification, interagency review, and proposed rulemaking, with no specific product removals announced.
  • Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey posted a “Come and take it” Dunkin’ meme as users flooded social media with jokes and regional defenses of the brand.
  • Dunkin’ and Starbucks offered no immediate public comment, though company nutrition disclosures show several specialty drinks exceed 100 grams of sugar.
  • Kennedy later wrote that “No one is taking away your Dunkin’,” while pointing to drinks with up to 180 grams of sugar; federal guidance now advises no more than 10 grams of added sugar per meal, and Dunkin’ on Thursday announced a zero‑sugar energy drink.