Oat milk lattes may be trendy—but non-dairy options are also a health issue for many customers. Dunkin’ Donuts, the popular coffee and donut chain, is currently facing a nationwide class action lawsuit over extra charges that have been levied on customers who opt for non-dairy alternatives in their coffee and tea-based drinks.
The legal action, initiated by 10 plaintiffs who argue that such surcharges discriminate against individuals with dairy intolerance or milk allergies, invokes the American Disabilities Act (ADA) to challenge Dunkin’s pricing practices. The lawsuit contends that these surcharges, ranging from 50 cents to $2.15, constitute up to 40% of the drink’s total cost. Find all the details below.
@thelawyerangela Send to ur fave Dunkin’ Donuts fan #dunkindonuts #dunkin #dunkins #classaction #classactionlawsuit #lawsuit #nondairy #vegan #lactoseintolerant #lactosefree #soymilk #almondmilk #oatmilk #coconutmilk #coffee original sound – LAWYER Angela
Dunkin’ Sued Over Charging for Non-Dairy Milks
A lawyer who goes by @lawyerangela on TikTok recently shed light on this lawsuit with a video. Although there are many reasons to choose non-dairy milk (like weight loss efforts or personal taste preferences), Angela explains that customers who choose non-dairy alternatives such as soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk (which was recently taken off the menu), or oat milk are often those with an intolerance to dairy or a milk allergy—both of which the lawsuit claims qualify as disabilities under the ADA.
Angela further explains the legal basis for the lawsuit: “The act requires reasonable modifications for people with a disability, says a surcharge may not be imposed to cover those costs.” She points out the alleged financial impact, stating, “However, the lawsuit says that Dunkin currently charges 50 cents to $2.15 for this swap–up to 40% of the drink’s cost.”
Angela also draws attention to the discrepancy in Dunkin’s pricing policies. She notes that Dunkin’ provides free modifications for other health concerns but not for individuals seeking non-dairy alternatives: “The lawsuit notes Dunkin does make modifications free of charge for other health issues like making the drinks caffeine-free for people with hypertension, swapping in sugar-free sweeteners for people with diabetes, and the change to skim milk for no extra charge.”
Additionally, Angela addresses the potential argument regarding the high cost of carrying non-dairy alternatives, stating, "Now if you think this surcharge is because Dunkin’s cost to carry non-dairy alternatives is so high, the lawsuit alleges that the costs are in the same ballpark."
The class action lawsuit against Dunkin' emphasizes the potential violation of the ADA, which requires businesses to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. If the court finds merit in the claims, Dunkin' may be held accountable for discriminatory pricing practices and could be required to amend its policies regarding surcharges for non-dairy alternatives.
As Dunkin' navigates this legal battle, the outcome could have broader implications for the fast-food and beverage industry. The lawsuit sheds light on the importance of businesses ensuring that their practices comply with anti-discrimination laws, particularly when it comes to accommodating customers with disabilities.
But what do you think? Is this pricing truly discriminatory? And are those tasty drinks worth the upcharge regardless? Either way, we're interested to see how it all pans out—keep your eyes peeled for a settlement!
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