Starbucks faces a $5 million dollar lawsuit for upcharging non-dairy milk

Starbucks is facing a $5 million class-action lawsuit for allegedly discriminating against lactose intolerant customers by charging extra for non-dairy milk alternatives. 

Filed last month in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California by two residents, the suit claims that surcharges for soy, almond, coconut and oat milks ranging from 50 to 90 cents violate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 

Over 30 million Americans suffer from lactose intolerance, recognized under the ADA as a disability.

In defense, a Starbucks spokesperson said the company couldn’t comment on pending litigation but highlighted that customers could add up to four ounces of non-dairy milk to some drinks at no additional cost, including certain coffees and teas.

LSU Student Allie Bonaventure expresses her concerns upon hearing about the coffee company's upcharge of other non-dairy milk alternatives.

“My body can’t process regular dairy, so the fact that I have to pay more, just for my intolerance, I think is unfair," Bonaventure said. 

She also explains "I think they uphcarge the milk because they know people will pay for it."

As the case progresses, the courts will decide if these surcharges are indeed discriminatory, putting a spotlight on pricing policies and anti-discrimination laws in commercial practices.