Is Dutch Bros' Non-Dairy Milk Free?
As of January 1, 2025, Dutch Bros no longer charges extra for oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk substitutions. The company eliminated its surcharge for all non-dairy milk alternatives, aligning its policy with competitors and responding to customer and advocate feedback.
The Impact of the New Pricing Policy
The elimination of the non-dairy surcharge benefits many Dutch Bros customers. It removes a financial penalty for those with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or following a vegan diet. For environmentally conscious consumers, the move encourages more eco-friendly choices. The policy shift was a direct response to customer demand and advocacy efforts from groups like PETA, which argued the extra cost was discriminatory.
What This Means for Your Order
At Dutch Bros locations, the price displayed for a standard latte or other milk-based beverage is the price you will pay, regardless of the milk choice. This simplifies the ordering process. The menu now reflects a broader commitment to customization without extra fees for basic substitutions. You can easily customize classics like the Kicker or a simple latte with oat milk at no additional expense.
Why Dutch Bros Changed Its Policy
Dutch Bros' decision to drop the non-dairy upcharge was part of a larger industry trend. A few months prior, major competitor Starbucks also eliminated its surcharge for non-dairy milk alternatives. This created a competitive landscape where Dutch Bros needed to adapt to meet customer expectations and remain competitive. PETA and other advocacy groups also played a role. By ending the surcharge, Dutch Bros demonstrated its responsiveness to public pressure and its commitment to customer satisfaction and inclusivity.
Customizing Your Oat Milk Drink
With the surcharge gone, experimenting with oat milk in different drinks is easy. Dutch Bros offers a variety of milk-based beverages that can be customized with oat milk. You can also explore their permanent oat milk menu items, such as the Oat Milk Kicker Latte.
Here are potential oat milk customizations:
- Caramelizer: A blend of espresso, chocolate milk, and caramel can be made dairy-free with oat milk.
- Golden Eagle: This drink, featuring espresso, vanilla, and caramel, is a great candidate for an oat milk swap.
- 9-1-1: Swap the Irish Cream breve for oat milk to make the 9-1-1 a dairy-free treat.
- Molten Lava Mocha: Combine dark chocolate and cinnamon flavors with oat milk for a decadent alternative.
Dutch Bros vs. Competitors: Non-Dairy Pricing
Dutch Bros and other chains followed a similar practice of charging extra for non-dairy milk. However, recent industry-wide changes have created a new standard. Here is a comparison of major coffee chains' non-dairy milk pricing policies as of late 2025:
| Coffee Chain | Non-Dairy Surcharge Status | Year of Change | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dutch Bros | No extra charge for oat, almond, or coconut milk. | 2025 | Eliminated surcharge, following Starbucks' example. |
| Starbucks | No extra charge for non-dairy milk options. | 2024 | Dropped the fee in late 2024, influencing competitors. |
| Dunkin' | Varies, but often an upcharge for non-dairy milk. | Unchanged | Known for having a non-dairy surcharge that can vary by drink. |
| Peet's Coffee | Varies, but has historically charged extra. | Unchanged | Often cited as one of the chains with a non-dairy upcharge. |
This table illustrates how Dutch Bros has joined the ranks of coffee giants in removing the non-dairy milk tax, putting pressure on competitors who still charge extra. The move is a significant win for consumers and a sign of changing industry norms.
The Evolution of Dutch Bros' Menu
Dutch Bros' addition of oat milk and the subsequent removal of the surcharge is part of a broader evolution in its menu offerings. The company has expanded its lineup of plant-based options to cater to a wider audience. This includes milk alternatives and specific menu items designed for dairy-free customers. This shows a proactive approach to evolving consumer preferences and a commitment to inclusivity. The company also offers almond and coconut milk, providing customers with a full range of dairy-free choices.
Conclusion
To answer the question, does Dutch Bros charge extra for oatmilk? No, not anymore. Since January 1, 2025, Dutch Bros has officially removed its non-dairy milk surcharge, making all alternative milk options, including oat milk, available at no extra cost. This decision was a response to growing consumer demand and industry trends, following a similar move by Starbucks. The change simplifies the ordering process, promotes inclusivity for those with dietary restrictions, and provides a more consumer-friendly experience for all Dutch Bros patrons.
Victory! Dutch Bros Ends Vegan Milk Upcharge After PETA Pressure
