Gasoline Smell from Paper Straws? Starbucks "Safety Verified, Affected Stock Recalled"

[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Eun-mo] As claims that Starbucks paper straws emit a smell of volatile chemicals have been repeatedly raised mainly on online communities, Starbucks Korea has confirmed that it has recalled all of the affected straws.

According to related industries on the 5th, Starbucks Korea recalled all of the straws on the 25th of last month following customer feedback that the paper straws used in stores smelled like gasoline.

According to Starbucks, there are three suppliers of paper straws to Starbucks, and one of them had a 'smell issue' with straws manufactured during a specific period. The smell problem is known to have occurred because the manufacturer adjusted the coating solution's mixing ratio during the manufacturing process to strengthen the paper straw's durability.

Starbucks Korea stated, "The components of the paper straws are harmless to the human body and are commonly used in food containers. The product's safety has been verified through testing by accredited inspection agencies."