Naixue has sparked major controversy recently over a notice posted in one of its stores, drawing backlash and shooting to No. 2 on Weibo’s trending list under the hashtag: #Naixue posted a sign in one of its stores saying if you can drink milk tea, don’t drink water (奈雪的茶门店通知能喝奶茶就不要喝水).
The full notice reads: “Due to the hot weather, water usage has surged. Many freshwater sources are under serious pressure. We hope everyone can do their part to save water. If you can drink milk tea, don’t drink water. Leave the water for children who can’t enjoy milk tea, and help spread kindness. Let’s start saving water with ourselves!”
Many users criticized the message for promoting unhealthy habits, pointing out that milk tea is known for high sugar and additives that raise health concerns when consumed regularly. A dietician from the First People’s Hospital of Hefei stated clearly that milk tea is high in sugar and low in nutrients—replacing water with it long-term can increase risks like obesity and diabetes.
Online reactions were sarcastic. Some said, “If you can drink water, don’t drink Naixue,” while others mocked, “Whoever came up with this must’ve had too much Naixue and lost their mind.” This backlash also highlights a contradiction in Naixue’s branding. The company has previously promoted itself as a “healthy tea” pioneer with product lines like “No Sugar Fresh Fruit Tea” and “Super Ingredients.” But this incident has seriously undermined the brand’s carefully crafted image.
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