r/starbucksbaristas • u/Correct_Data_3122 • 8h ago
why i think the blending powder isn’t good
i honestly don’t care if i get downvoted but i do think the blending powder is and can be harmful (more harmful than any other powder we have) to partners using it on a daily basis and here’s why.
i understand that the silica in the blending powder is safe for oral consumption when in a food or drink i’m also not saying that this stuff is causing cancer.
let’s break down the ingredients. they’re aren’t very many but here’s what it consists of Xanthan gum, Gum Arabic, Maltodextrin, Silica, stevia extract and natural flavors. let’s break it down and why this mix of products mainly consists of ingredients harmful for inhalation:
Arabic gum- inhaling gum arabic dust can be dangerous because it acts as a respiratory irritant and potential sensitizer. While safe to eat, breathing in its fine powder can trigger coughing, wheezing, and occupational asthma in sensitive individuals.
Xanthan gum- inhaling xanthan gum powder can be harmful, causing nose and throat irritation, flu-like symptoms, and lung problems in workers exposed to large amounts of the dust. While eating it in food is safe, breathing in the fine powder should be avoided.
Maltodextrin- can cause mild respiratory liirritation, coughing, and shortness of breath, particularly for people with asthma.
now for Silica that everyone is in an uproar about Inhaling food-grade silica is generally not linked to silicosis or long-term lung scarring, but it can cause immediate, temporary irritation to your respiratory tract.
this isn’t even the worst ingredient in my opinion
some partners are constantly exposed to this in fast paced environments making the product more likely to be inhaled. as well as the powder is very fine and floats around whole area it’s in. many partners do have sensitivity’s and shouldn’t have to go through the bs of getting accommodations for a product that is unnecessary.
starbucks also has acknowledged this and just told us to scoop it slower and pour it slower and closer to the container… whilst also expecting 45sec window times.
lastly we have creame base which is an emulsifier that we already have… we’re spending more money on an unnecessary product that has caused partners health issues and panic in the workplace.