Starbucks’ Frappuccinos are getting a lower-sugar makeover

(CBS News) — Starbucks is putting its Frappuccino frozen drinks on a diet.

The coffee chain said it’s testing a new version that cuts the sugar content by 25 percent, part of an effort to reach consumers who are concerned with health and are opting for less sugary drinks. Starbucks is testing the new Frappuccinos in 600 stores in California, Missouri and Rhode Island, the company told CBS MoneyWatch.

Health experts have noted noted Frappuccinos’ high sugar content, with nutritionists pointing out that some Frappuccinos have more sugar than candy bars.

Starbucks said customers in its test markets can order a 16 ounce caramel Frappuccino with 50 fewer calories and 18 fewer grams of sugar than the original. Overall, the healthier drinks have 49 grams of sugar, compared with 67 grams for the original. By comparison, a 1.5 ounce Snickers bar contains 20 grams of sugar.