Shark Tank’s Anupam Mittal criticizes Starbucks, says 'more toxic than tobacco'

Starbucks has announced the departure of Chief Executive Officer Laxman Narasimhan after just 16 months in the role. The company's decision comes in response to declining sales. Narasimhan will be replaced by Chipotle CEO Brian Nichol.

Reacting to the news, Shark Tank judge Anupam Mittal shared his thoughts on the microblogging site X, formerly known as Twitter. He expressed concerns about Starbucks' current direction.



“Starbucks continued value erosion is inevitable unless they go back to their roots or reinvent their raison d’etre. Right now they are less of a coffee shop and more of a dessert store with criminal levels of disguised sugar making people sick. Probably more toxic than tobacco companies.”

Mittal then added, “But good move bringing in Brian.”

Other users of the platform chimed in on Mittal's posts. One user pondered, “I seriously wonder why there is no modern cafe equivalent - with protein shakes, protein-rich foods etc. Maybe something for @wholetruthfood to consider as a pilot?” Mittal responded positively to the suggestion, “great idea … if I find the time, am getting on it.”

Another user commented on the general awareness of health issues in India, stating, “India is a lower-middle income country and if you talk to a regular guy about sugar in food products, most probably he/she will laugh at you. People are not health conscious, all they care about is taste.”

Mittal disagreed with this perspective, replying, “...it’s not true … lower income people are not idiots.”

Summarizing his views on Starbucks' strategy, Mittal said, “Sounds like Starbucks is brewing up a storm...just not the kind you’d want in your coffee. Maybe they need a little less sugar and a lot more espresso in their business strategy!”