The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·03134·Announced 2003-05-28

Starbucks Recalls Bearista Bear Tumbler Cups Due to Choking Hazard

Starbucks is recalling 30,000 Bearista Bear tumbler cups because flexible straws can break off and pose a choking hazard to young children.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a choking hazard to young children, which is a risk-of-harm product where injury has not yet been reported, fitting the 'High' severity criteria.

Plain-English summary

Starbucks Coffee Co. is recalling approximately 30,000 Bearista™ Bear tumbler cups sold in the United States, Canada, and Taiwan. The translucent plastic cups, available in blue and green, feature a screw-on lid with a soft flexible straw. The recall was initiated because small pieces of plastic can detach from the straw when chewed, creating a choking risk for young children.

Starbucks received two reports of straw pieces detaching in children's mouths. While no injuries were reported, one incident involved a child choking on a detached piece, requiring a parent to administer the Heimlich Maneuver to remove it. The cups were sold at Starbucks stores from April 2003 through May 2003 for approximately $7.

Parents and caregivers should stop young children from using these cups immediately. Consumers can return the cups to any Starbucks location for a refund and a free beverage of any size. For more information, contact Starbucks Customer Relations at (800) 235-2883 or visit Starbucks.com.

The recalled product

Product
Starbucks Bearista™ Bear tumbler cups
Hazard
Affected units
30,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.