Bobba, a popular bubble tea company, has issued an apology following backlash after their appearance on Dragons’ Den, where accusations of cultural appropriation were raised.
The controversy stemmed from the brand’s presentation and the perception of its founders’ approach to bubble tea, a culturally significant beverage.
Food writer and equity consultant Cheng, who grew up drinking bubble tea, spoke out about the issue, highlighting how cultural foods are often trivialized or mocked in North America.
She explained that when individuals from these cultures attempt to innovate or adapt these foods, it can sometimes be perceived as appropriating their culture in a way that disregards the power dynamics involved.
In response, Bobba stated that it had been subjected to online hate, including death threats towards its founders. While CBC News could not independently verify these claims, the company condemned the online bullying and harassment that followed their Dragons’ Den segment.
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