With all the hype from Starbucks (including my tweet) about their new Frappuccino Drinks, you would think that there is a typo somewhere. Yes, it’s lovely that they let you now customize the drink. Yes, it’s been fun to have a half-priced beverage for this 10-day introductory period (Happy Hour promo ends on the 16th). Then there is the BUT.

Did they really have to change their formula on the light syrup and add gluten? Nowhere on their website do they address this issue. There have been casual references that if you are gluten intolerant, you should pay attention anyway since so many drinks are made on the same equipment. These are poor excuses to addressing the issue. In this day and age when we recognize how gluten allergies are often misdiagnosed and celebrate the new range of gluten-free choices and the impressive marketing roll-outs, it is surprising that this formulation needed to occur. Why did Starbucks need to make a U-Turn? It is a meager explanation to say it’s only on those with light syrup. Why at all?

Better yet, why not make a formal announcement so there is no confusion? We are left with more rumor and inquiries of individual baristas. Read their blog and you’ll see how people really feel.

C’mon, Starbucks, you have a responsibility.