Class Action Lawsuit Claims Charging More for Oat Milk Is Discriminatory | Eater

"A national coffee-and-doughnut chain is facing a class-action lawsuit alleging that adding a $0.50–$2.15 surcharge for nondairy milks discriminates against customers with lactose intolerance and milk allergies. Plaintiffs filed in late December in Northern California federal court on behalf of U.S. consumers who paid extra for nondairy milk over the last four years, seeking at least $5 million and arguing the surcharge violates the ADA because food allergies can be disabilities. The company moved to dismiss in March 2024, contending the ADA does not require equal pricing for accessible goods and warning of broad consequences; a hearing is scheduled for April 19 in San Francisco. The complaint also asserts that the retail price of the cow’s milks it offers is the same as, or higher than, many non-dairy alternatives, and critics say large chains have the ability to eliminate such surcharges." - Anastasia Sloan