A Former Starbucks Barista Just Shared 4 Gross Secrets About The Chain: 'We Didn't Clean The Ice Machine Once In Two Years'

Starbucks, beloved by millions for its delicious coffee and cozy ambiance, may not be as perfect as it seems. A former barista has recently lifted the lid on some unsettling truths about the popular chain that might surprise even the most devoted customers. From questionable hygiene practices to unexpected ingredients, these revelations offer a glimpse into what really happens behind the counter. Keep reading to uncover four gross secrets that will change how you view your next Starbucks visit.

All The Pastries Are Frozen

In a Reddit thread dedicated to exposing fast food secrets, one user, a former Starbucks barista, let all the dirty secrets out. First and foremost? None of the pastries are fresh. "All the pastries come frozen and we defrost them," they wrote. Those fresh croissants or decadent cake pops? All frozen and heated up to display-case temperature. Not as appetizing anymore, is it?

The Ice Machines Are Never Cleaned

Next, the former barista shared that the ice machines were rarely, if ever cleaned, meaning the ice in your drink was constantly touching a surface that hasn't been cleaned in who knows how long. "The ice machines are nasty," they wrote. "I don't think we ever cleaned ours in my 2 years there." We're hoping that maybe they were just cleaned when this employee in particular wasn't working, but we're not getting our hopes up...

Milk Drops To Unsafe Temperatures

Perhaps the most concerning secret exposed is that the milk was often left on the counter instead of in the fridge, meaning it rose to unsafe temperatures all the time. "During rush hour, baristas often leave the milk jugs out rather than return it to the fridge between use because you're pouring milk literally every 30 seconds," the former barista said. "Unfortunately this means the milk temperature rises above safe levels and bacterial growth duplicates." Nasty!

Syrups Aren't Vegan...But Customers Don't Know That

And finally, some sad news for vegans and dairy-free individuals: "Lots of syrups are made with milk and/or honey so they're not vegan," the former employee wrote. The problem is, this isn't always advertised, so many vegans or lactose-free customers are unknowingly consuming ingredients they try to stay away from. While we hope these secrets don't apply to every Starbucks location, perhaps this will make your at-home coffee set up a little more appealing!