Starbucks to add a shot of protein to its beverages
Starting September 29, Starbucks coffeehouses in the U.S. and Canada will offer Protein Cold Foam alongside a new line of Protein Lattes made with protein-boosted milk delivering approximately 15 to 36 grams of protein per grande (16 oz) beverage.
Starbucks new Protein Cold Foams and Lattes will be available at the end of September. They will come in a variety of flavours, including hot & iced lattes available unsweetened or sugar-free and are designed to support customers looking to add protein to their order.
These new protein beverages are part of the company’s strategy to drive innovation and modernize its menu.
“As we continue to get back to Starbucks, we’re focused on modernizing our menu with innovative, relevant, and hype-worthy products that will resonate with our customers,” said Tressie Leiberman, Starbucks global chief brand officer.
According to Nourish Food Marketing’s 2025 Trend Report, 71% of Canadian consumers want to eat more protein. In addition, research from Ipsos Five reports the number of Canadians who identify protein as their most important nutritional consideration has risen 112% since 2015, and 20% since 2020.
In addition to the Protein Cold Foam flavours being available, on September 29, iced beverages with Protein Cold Foam will be added to the permanent menu.
READ: Starbucks Foundation gives grants to 425 charities and community groups across Canada
In July of this year, Starbucks started testing protein beverages through the ‘Starting 5’ innovation program that tests products in five coffeehouses and gathers feedback from baristas and customers before rolling out to more stores. Protein Cold Foams are the first breakthrough innovation built and tested with the Starting 5 approach.
