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Press release from Change.org:
STARBUCKS TO STOP USING CRUSHED BUGS FOLLOWING POPULAR ONLINE CAMPAIGN
Starbucks will switch to natural, vegetarian coloring in response to consumer pressure via petition on Change.org.
GREENVILLE, SC – In response to massive public outcry and consumer pressure, Starbucks announced it will replace cochineal coloring derived from crushed bugs and instead use a tomato based ingredient to color several products including its strawberry Frappuccinos.
A popular campaign on Change.org led by ThisDishIsVeg blogger Daelyn Fortney gained over 6,000 signatures. Each signature on the petition sent an email directly to Starbucks headquarters.
"What originally began as a story to inform vegans that their Starbucks' Strawberry Frappucino was no longer safe to consume ended up being an issue that bothered many people," said Fortney. "Individuals across the country and world turned their single voices into one steady roar that informed Starbucks of their displeasure. Thanks to social media and my petition on Change.org, within a matter of weeks, Starbucks has agreed to rectify the situation, showing that it is a stand-up company that cares about its consumers."
Live signature totals: https://www.change.org/petitions/starbucks-stop-using-bugs-to-color-your-strawberry-flavored-drinks
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The Starbucks statement (read it) said the bug-based dye also is in:
• Strawberries & Crème Frappuccino
• Strawberry Banana Smoothie.
• Raspberry Swirl Cake
• Birthday Cake Pop
• Mini Donut with pink icing
• Red Velvet Whoopie Pie
From Starbucks - "Our intention is to be fully transitioned from existing product inventories to revised food and beverage offerings near the end of June across the U.S."