Starbucks Iced Drink Cups Are Getting a Big Change at Some Locations

If you're one of the countless Starbucks fans who can't get through the day without an Iced Shaken Espresso or Pink Drink, you'll want to hear about the java giant's latest announcement: Your favorite drinks could look a whole lot different going forward, as a new "cold cup" is being introduced at select locations—and not everybody is enthusiastic about the change.

Instead of the usual clear plastic cups that customers are used to getting when they order an iced drink, chilled beverages will be served in fiber-based compostable cold cups, which are white and opaque. The shift is a response to laws addressing pollution and waste by food-based businesses, according to USA Today .

"Based on local mandates, customers at 24 stores will be served their favorite Starbucks beverage in fiber-based compostable cold cups," said Beth Nervig , senior manager, social impact communications at Starbucks. The 24 stores are all located in two states (California and Minnesota).

Related: Starbucks Confirms Another Big Change Is Coming to Mobile Orders

Environmentally friendly or not, some Starbucks fans are expressing dismay over the update. TikTok creator @heybayhey went viral for her video about the new cups, saying she was "flabbergasted" when she picked up her regular order.

"I looked at it like it was a spaceship or a UFO," she said.

Many commenters agreed with @heybayhey's sentiments, particularly when it came to her point about not being able to see the contents of the cup.

"How am I supposed to tell if it's the right color?" asked one commenter.

"This is enough to make me go to dunkin," complained another.

If your local Starbucks is one of the locations offering the new cups, you do have an alternative—bringing your own reusable cup.

"Customers at participating stores in the U.S. and Canada who bring any clean, personal cup will receive a $0.10 discount on their beverage, and in the U.S., Starbucks Rewards members will receive 25 Bonus Stars," according to Nervig.

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