Starbucks customers fume after chain forces guests to use new cups and fans scream it ‘changes the taste of drinks’

STARBUCKS is rolling out brand new cups in some markets, leaving customers scratching their heads.

The chain’s fiber-based compostable cups are opaque and have a dome-shaped lid.

They’re intended to be used for cold drinks.

Starbucks told USA Today that 24 stores will get the new cups.

The change is thanks to various local mandates that restrict plastic waste.

Typically, cold drinks at the chain come in clear plastic cups.

But in some places, that runs afoul of plastic waste restrictions.

Not everyone is thrilled with the change.

CUSTOMERS REACT

One customer in California took to X after receiving the new cup.

He tagged Starbucks in the post.

“Why the hell are my cold drinks in this POS paper cup,” he asked.

“I’m not paying another cent for a company that makes drinks that taste matter[s] and haven’t come to conclusion that paper changes the taste of drinks,” he said.

He then said he was “done” with the company.

Starbucks did not reply publicly to the tweet.

In a statement to USA Today, a spokesperson said the cup was made from “fiber-based paper board with a bioplastic liner.”

The cups are available at some stores in California and Minnesota.

ECO CHANGES

Over the years, companies have been adapting to increased regulations from state and local governments surrounding plastic waste.

Plastic is cheap to produce and has become ubiquitous over much of the past century.

However, that has led to significant levels of plastic pollution in the oceans, drinking water, and even our bodies.

As a reaction, many cities and states have banned the use of plastic bags, or placed a tax on them.

Pittsburgh, for example, recently faced backlash over a plastic bag ban.

Some companies have jumped on the green bandwagon to build more sustainable businesses and to boost their public image.

Walmart is installing electric vehicle charging stations nationwide.

In some places, popular government programs will pay for you to buy an e-bike.

The reason behind the new Harris Teeter bag policy

To ensure the safety of shoppers, Harris Teeter announced they were enacting a bag ban policy.

The company wrote, "Harris Teeter is committed to providing the highest quality, freshest products to all customers in the communities we serve. Ensuring a safe shopping environment for both our customers and our valued associates is critical.

"Effective April 24, we will implement improved safety measures at stores in [the] District of Columbia, including the checking of receipts as customers exit the store and a new policy prohibiting suitcases, duffel bags, oversized backpacks, and roller bags.

"These measures will help us maintain a safe shopping experience and continue providing the best service and goods at competitive prices to our customers. We thank our valued associates and customers for their cooperation and patience."