Trending Now - RFK Jr. Sparks Outrage in Boston With Dunkin' Remarks

WHO:

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Health and Human Services Secretary

Maura Healey, Governor of Massachusetts

Richard Neal, Massachusetts Representative

Dr. Céline Gounder, CBS News contributor

Dunkin' and Starbucks, coffee chains

WHAT:

Kennedy is challenging Dunkin' and Starbucks to prove the safety of their high-sugar drinks for teenagers.

He stated, “We’re gonna ask Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks, show us the safety data that show that it’s OK for a teenage girl to drink an iced coffee with 115 grams of sugar in it. I don't think they're gonna be able to do it.”

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey responded on X with “COME AND TAKE IT” alongside an image of a Dunkin' cup.

Federal dietary guidelines recommend meals should have no more than 10 grams of added sugar.

Dunkin' has drinks that exceed 10 grams of added sugar, with at least six drinks containing more than 100 grams.

Dunkin' announced the release of a zero-sugar energy drink available in six flavors.

WHERE:

Massachusetts, where Dunkin' is based

Austin, Texas, where Kennedy made his remarks

WHEN:

Kennedy's comments were made late in February 2026.

The articles were published on March 5, 2026.

WHY:

Kennedy's initiative is part of his "Make America Healthy Again" campaign, aiming to address health concerns related to sugary drinks.

HOW:

Kennedy is calling for safety data from Dunkin' and Starbucks regarding their sugary drinks.

The Department of Health and Human Services has strengthened reviews and closed loopholes but did not specify actions against high-sugar drinks.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is challenging Dunkin' and Starbucks to provide safety data on their high-sugar drinks for teenagers, highlighting concerns over beverages like iced coffee that can contain up to 115 grams of sugar. In response, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey took to X to support Dunkin', posting “COME AND TAKE IT” alongside an image of one of their cups. As part of his "Make America Healthy Again" campaign, Kennedy is pushing for more scrutiny on sugary drinks, while Dunkin' has announced a new zero-sugar energy drink available in six flavors.