Starbucks Pours Protein Into Coffee to Fuel the Future of Fueling Up

Starting Sept. 29, Starbucks will introduce protein-infused cold foam and lattes to its U.S. and Canadian menu, offering customers the ability to add 15–36 grams of protein to their beverages. This move is part of the company’s broader initiative to modernize its offerings and align with the growing consumer preference for high-protein diets. The 2025 IFIC Food & Health Survey notes that 70% of Americans are actively trying to consume more protein, with 80% prioritizing it daily, underscoring the appeal of this new menu addition [1].

The new Protein Cold Foam can be added to any cold beverage, providing approximately 15 grams of protein per grande serving. When incorporated into iced beverages, the total protein content rises to 19–26 grams per grande. The cold foam will be available in multiple flavors, including banana, vanilla, chocolate, matcha, and seasonal options like pumpkin and pecan. This follows a successful test of the banana-flavored cold foam in five stores in June, indicating a positive reception from early customers [3].

Complementing the cold foam is the launch of Starbucks Protein Lattes, made with a proprietary protein-boosted milk blend of 2% milk and unflavored protein powder. These lattes deliver 27–36 grams of protein per grande serving, offering a premium option for customers seeking to enhance their protein intake without compromising on taste [1]. Baristas will prepare the protein-boosted milk daily, ensuring freshness and consistency in both flavor and nutritional content [4].

The protein customization extends beyond lattes, allowing customers to upgrade any milk-based beverage—such as iced shaken espresso or coconut milk Refreshers—with the protein-boosted milk. This adds an additional 12–16 grams of protein per grande, providing further flexibility for health-conscious consumers [1]. Starbucks has emphasized its commitment to high-quality ingredients, stating that its protein beverages will be free from high fructose corn syrup, artificial dyes, and artificial trans-fats [1].

This strategic rollout aligns with broader industry trends, as the high-protein beverage market has expanded significantly in recent years. The number of high-protein drinks in the market grew by 122% between 2020 and 2024, according to Innova Market Insights. With protein-infused products now spanning categories from breakfast cereals to sports drinks, Starbucks’s entry into this space positions the brand to capture a share of a growing consumer trend [4]. The company’s new offerings also follow a successful sales week for its U.S. company-operated locations, driven in part by the return of fall menu staples like the pumpkin spice latte [2].

Starbucks’s global chief brand officer, Tressie Lieberman, stated that the new protein beverages reflect the company’s focus on innovation and relevance. By integrating customer feedback through the Starting 5 innovation program, Starbucks has tailored its offerings to meet evolving dietary preferences. As the protein craze continues to shape consumer behavior, Starbucks’s latest menu additions are poised to resonate with a wide audience seeking both nutrition and taste [1].

Source:

[1] Starbucks Goes all in on Protein: Announces Arrival of New Protein Lattes and Protein Cold Foam to the Menu (https://about.starbucks.com/press/2025/starbucks-goes-all-in-on-protein-announces-arrival-of-new-protein-lattes-and-protein-cold-foam-to-the-menu/)

[2] Starbucks to launch protein-packed cold foam, lattes Sept. 29 (https://www.cnbc.com/2025/09/02/starbucks-to-launch-protein-packed-cold-foam-lattes-sept-29.html)

[3] Starbucks Puts Protein Cold Foams and Lattes (https://www.today.com/food/drinks/starbucks-protein-cold-foams-lattes-rcna228530)

[4] Starbucks adding new protein lattes and cold foams this (https://www.cbsnews.com/news/starbucks-protein-lattes-cold-foam-menu-september-29/)