Starbucks’ ‘drink bags’ have TikTok users very, very confused

Who knew that something as simple as a new Starbucks drink bag could be so divisive?

In China, the coffee chain debuted a new system for carrying its coffee — and now, customers from around the world are sharing their thoughts.

The bags — which, according to Delish, actually debuted in 2016 — begin looking like a flat napkin. Using one, as shown in a TikTok by user @catfishvsthug, is as easy as plopping on your drink on top and pulling upward.

“Brand new Starbucks bag in China! WHY DONT WE HAVE THIS IN USA?” @catfishvsthug captioned their video.

@catfishvsthug

Brand new Starbucks bag in China! WHY DONT WE HAVE THIS IN USA? #catfishvsthug #fyp #starbucks #coffee #invention

♬ Oh No – Kreepa

The bags, which seem to just now be gaining attention internationally, are actually somewhat common among Asian cafes. Still, Starbucks fans from elsewhere around the world seemed shocked to discover they exist.

“Omg that’s crazy, it’s cool though!” one user wrote.

Many TikTokers, like @catfishvsthug, praised the idea. In theory, it makes it easier to carry several drinks at once and can save customers from burning their hands on hot drinks.

However, others were upset by the idea, calling it “unnecessary” and “wasteful.”

“You can’t just hold the cup?” one user asked.

“Looks like an environmental hazard,” another added.

“This is freaking me out,” another wrote.

Some users refuted those comments, though, claiming that many versions of these drink bags are biodegradable. That concept would be in line with other recent moves by Starbucks, which, in recent years, has taken many steps to reduce its environmental footprint.

Among those changes are the new “strawless lids,” which the company debuted in 2019 and, as of fall 2020, is offering in all of its U.S. stores.

Meanwhile, it’s unclear if the drink bags will ever make their way over to the U.S. It’s possible that Starbucks China, just like Taco Bell China, will remain noticeably different from its U.S. counterpart.

If you liked this article, check out In The Know’s story on the 10 viral Starbucks drinks you need to order ASAP.

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