Here’s what Starbucks baristas are saying about the new blending powder.
This is exactly why having a union in every store is so important - we all deserve stronger protections at work and a say in decisions that affect our health and livelihood. Starbucks will keep making the same mistakes unless WE, their workers, stand together and say enough is enough!
*our lawyers want you to know that while these comments surrounding Starbucks' blending powder were posted publicly, SBWU cannot verify their accuracy. You can view more of these public comments on previous posts on SBWU's social media channels.
Want to hold Starbucks accountable?
CUSTOMERS: Stop buying Starbucks at any location. Our union is calling on everyone who cares about their baristas to avoid purchasing Starbucks until the company finalizes fair union contracts with the protections and improvements we need to live good, healthy lives.
PARTNERS: If you’re not at a union store yet, but want to know what YOU can do to fight back, let’s chat! If you’re already a union partner, connect with your staff organizer or CAT representative if you’re seeing problems like these at your store!
As a former barista, I can personally relate to the challenges described by those working with Starbucks' new blending powder. Handling finely powdered ingredients that become airborne during preparation can be more dangerous than it initially appears. Many workers experience symptoms like headaches, respiratory discomfort, and skin irritation due to airborne particles from powders like this silica-based mix. In my experience, exposure to such powders without adequate protective measures can aggravate asthma or trigger allergic reactions, which aligns with the reports of increased inhaler use and respiratory distress shared by current Starbucks employees. The fact that some colleagues have developed rashes or hives indicates potential allergic responses to direct contact with the powder, highlighting the need for better safety protocols. This situation underscores why workplace unions are crucial. Unions empower workers to voice health and safety concerns more effectively, pushing companies to implement changes such as improved ventilation, protective equipment, and thorough risk assessments. Without collective bargaining power, individual employees often lack the influence needed to protect their well-being. Moreover, the call for customers to support baristas by pausing purchases until fair contracts are secured shows how consumer action can align with worker rights movements to bring attention to important labor issues. As someone who has been on the frontline serving customers, I see immense value in solidarity between consumers and employees to foster a safer and healthier work environment. Ultimately, awareness of ingredient-related hazards and strong worker protections go hand in hand. For those curious about how blending powders affect health or considering the importance of union support in retail workplaces, these firsthand accounts from Starbucks baristas provide critical insight. It reminds us that workplace safety is not just a corporate responsibility but a shared societal priority requiring attention, advocacy, and action.
