by Matt Weik, BS, CSCS, CPT, CSN
I’m going to be trustworthy… I’m not a fan of something from Starbucks. Nonetheless, I noticed this within the information and thought so myself, “That’s fairly fascinating.” Who would have thought Starbucks can be stepping into the protein drink recreation?
Effectively, form of.
Starbucks has launched two large new choices, and if you happen to’re a Starbucks lover, this can be up your alley.
Starting September 29, 2025, clients within the U.S. and Canada can order Protein Lattes and Protein Chilly Foam at their native shops.
These things are a part of Starbucks’s push to modernize the menu and faucet into what clients need proper now — protein.
Personally, I’m on board with this and assume it’s an superior addition and one thing that customers are positively in search of. Let’s dive deeper into what precisely it signifies that Starbucks is leaping into the protein drink recreation and what you’ll be able to look out for.
Disclaimer: This text is for informational functions solely and isn’t meant to deal with or diagnose any situation. It’s endorsed that you just converse along with your physician earlier than beginning any train program, making modifications to your diet plan, or including any new dietary supplements into your present routine.
What’s in These Protein Drinks?
As of proper now, Starbucks has two (technically three) choices that you ought to be conscious of if you happen to frequent their places.
1. Protein Chilly Foam
Chilly foam is a creamy, frothy topper that may be a hit with many shoppers. However now, you will get protein chilly foam. This selection provides about 15 grams of protein per grande drink (not dangerous, assuming you don’t get one thing outlandish with 500+ energy and 30+ grams of sugar in it).
You may add it to espresso, tea, or Refreshers. And it is available in a ton of flavors — banana, vanilla, sugar-free vanilla, chocolate, matcha, salted caramel, brown sugar, and even plain. Seasonal flavors embody pumpkin and pecan.
When it’s layered over iced drinks, complete protein jumps to about 19–26 grams per grande. That’s one heck of an addition to health lovers and people who are health-conscious, in search of added protein of their diets.
This idea began small. It was a part of Starbucks’s “Beginning 5” take a look at program, the place they had been trialing it in 5 shops first. Now, it’s prepared for a full rollout.
2. Protein Lattes
These are made with a brand new “protein-boosted” 2% milk, blended with unflavored protein powder. They ship 27 to 36 grams of protein per grande latte.
These lattes will probably be everlasting additions to the menu, not seasonal. This provides you an ideal possibility for many who want “taste” and aren’t only a straight espresso form of individual.
3. Construct-Your-Personal Protein
Even past these two gadgets, now you can substitute the protein-boosted milk into any milk-based drink (like lattes, iced shaken espresso, and even Coconut Milk Refreshers). That ups the protein by an additional 12–16 grams, with no added sugar and no compromise on taste.
The no-added-sugar half ought to excite some individuals who want a lift of vitality, however don’t need the added sugar crash that may crush their productiveness for the day.
Why Now? Why Protein?
Protein continues to dominate what shoppers need. A 2025 IFIC Food & Health survey discovered that 70% of People are attempting to eat extra protein. And for the fifth 12 months operating, it’s the highest nutrient individuals prioritize.
Eight in ten Americans say they prioritize protein day-after-day. This protein angle aligns completely with health-focused tendencies (and sensible enterprise).
Starbucks calls this transfer modern, premium, and scrumptious, saying it aligns with its “Again to Starbucks” technique to modernize their menu and convey clients again in.
Why Health Followers Will Love This
There are a number of causes that I imagine health followers and lovers will love this transfer by Starbucks.
1. Constructed-in Diet on the Counter
Protein Lattes and Chilly Foam give health followers a conveyable, tasty protein enhance. It’s like a mini post-workout snack, solely with out a shaker bottle or a bar. Excellent for early-morning gym-goers or protein-focused lovers.
2. Tons of Customization
You may stack protein in your drink, but in addition hold management over taste and sugar. Need plain, unsweetened, or seasonal? Starbucks has you coated with their new providing.
3. Matches on the Go
Well being-minded individuals push onerous for outcomes (and rightfully so). These drinks allow them to keep on with their macros (and hit their protein objectives) with out slowing down. In a rush? Hit up a Starbucks for some added protein to your day, irrespective of the place it might take you.
How This May Increase Starbucks Gross sales
I really feel as if this might push extra individuals to Starbucks over locations like Tim Horton’s and Dunkin’. Listed below are my ideas:
1. Broadens the Market
Starbucks wins with health-conscious shoppers. These new protein choices don’t simply entice health followers, they enchantment to anybody chasing a extra nutritious espresso run.
2. Trendy Innovation Drives Buzz
Keep in mind when the Pumpkin Spice Latte turned a cultural staple? Starbucks is betting on this protein push to create new hype, similar to PSL did.
3. No-Frills Change, Large Influence
Testing by means of “Beginning 5” and constructing from there exhibits they’re making sensible strikes, not random flops. It’s innovation rooted in actual buyer suggestions. However it’s going to come back at the next value.
4. Simple Upsell and Repeat Visits
Protein Chilly Foam provides worth to any drink. Protein-boosted milk can go in something. That’s a simple upsell proper on the POS for baristas. Plus, as soon as clients discover their go-to protein brew, they’ll most likely come again for extra.
I’m a Fan of Starbucks Entering into the Protein Drink Recreation!
Now, let’s not get forward of ourselves. I nonetheless don’t see myself ready in a protracted drive-thru line at Starbucks for this added possibility. That stated, if you happen to’re a kind of individuals who frequent their institutions, that is an superior perk.
Once more, at 15 to 36 grams of protein per drink, Starbucks is now crafted to enchantment to each style and macros. Most individuals are averse to alter, however this could possibly be one everybody can get enthusiastic about.
I imagine health lovers will assume that is actually cool. It’s a daring method to mix comfort, style, and diet. And sure, it’s a savvy transfer that might enhance Starbucks’ gross sales by drawing in a protein-hungry crowd. Good for them!
