Starbucks' Oleato Line: The Olive Oil Revelation
Yes, Starbucks did put olive oil in their coffee, and they did so with a splash. In early 2023, the coffee giant unveiled its Oleato line, a collection of beverages infused with Partanna extra virgin olive oil. The name 'Oleato,' derived from the Italian for 'oiled,' reflects the drinks' Mediterranean inspiration. This launch, initiated in Italy and later expanded to other global markets, including the U.S., was championed by former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, who discovered the local tradition of consuming a spoonful of olive oil daily in Sicily. Schultz, enamored by the idea, brought it back to the Starbucks beverage development team, leading to what he called a "revolutionary new coffee ritual".
The Creation of the Oleato Experience
The development of the Oleato line wasn't just about dumping oil into coffee. The process involved thoughtfully infusing the olive oil into different components of the drinks to create a specific textural and flavor profile. For instance, the oil was steamed with oat milk for lattes, shaken with espresso for iced beverages, and incorporated into a golden cold foam for cold brews. The company explicitly partnered with Partanna, a Sicilian brand known for its high-quality extra virgin olive oil, to ensure a premium product. The use of extra virgin olive oil, in particular, was key due to its distinct, buttery, and slightly fruity flavor notes, which were intended to complement the coffee's own profile.
Mixed Customer Reactions and Discontinuation
Despite the initial fanfare, the Oleato line's reception was highly polarized. While some consumers appreciated the new, velvety texture and complex flavor, others found it unappealing or even unsettling. Some of the most significant backlash came from reports of gastrointestinal distress. The combination of coffee, a known laxative, with olive oil, another substance that can have a similar effect, led to uncomfortable side effects for some individuals. This mixed feedback, combined with the complexities of managing the menu item, led Starbucks to make a significant decision. In October 2024, the company confirmed it would discontinue the Oleato drinks from its U.S. menus. The removal aligns with a broader strategy under new leadership to simplify the menu and return to core offerings. The Oleato line, however, is still available in some international markets, including Italy, Japan, and parts of China.
Understanding the Olive Oil in Coffee Trend
Starbucks wasn't the first to combine coffee and olive oil, and the Oleato line was part of a larger trend exploring fat-infused coffee, similar to the "bulletproof coffee" concept. This movement is driven by health-conscious consumers seeking sustained energy and other potential benefits associated with healthy fats. Olive oil, rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, is often championed as a wellness booster. However, experts caution that adding significant extra fat adds considerable calories, which can be counterproductive for weight management. For those interested in trying this trend at home, it's recommended to start with high-quality, extra virgin olive oil and begin with a small amount to see how your body reacts. The right mixing technique, often with a blender or frother, is also crucial to achieve a smooth, emulsified texture rather than an oily residue.
Potential Health Benefits and Risks
Benefits of Coffee and Olive Oil Combined
- Sustained Energy: The healthy fats in olive oil can slow down the absorption of caffeine, providing a more gradual and sustained energy boost rather than a sudden jolt and crash.
- Enhanced Antioxidant Profile: Both coffee and extra virgin olive oil are packed with antioxidants. Combining them can create a potent brew to help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
- Heart Health: The monounsaturated fats in high-quality olive oil are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels.
- Appetite Control: The fat content can increase feelings of satiety and fullness, which may help curb cravings and support weight management.
Risks and Considerations
- Digestive Issues: For some individuals, the combination of coffee (a stimulant) and olive oil (a fat with laxative properties) can lead to an upset stomach, bloating, or diarrhea.
- High Caloric Intake: Adding a tablespoon of olive oil to coffee adds roughly 120 calories, which can significantly increase daily caloric intake, especially if consumed regularly.
- Taste Preference: Not everyone enjoys the savory, earthy, and peppery notes that high-quality olive oil can impart to coffee. The taste can be polarizing.
Comparison: Starbucks Oleato vs. Classic Olive Oil Coffee
| Feature | Starbucks Oleato (When Available) | DIY Olive Oil Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Olive Oil Source | Utilized premium, single-source Partanna extra virgin olive oil from Sicily. | Can use any brand of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Quality and flavor can vary greatly. |
| Ingredients | Featured Starbucks Blonde Espresso Roast, oat milk, and golden foam (infused with olive oil). | Can be added to any type of coffee—black coffee, espresso, or with milk/milk alternatives. |
| Texture | Infusion and steaming processes created a deliberate, velvety-smooth, and creamy texture. | Can be smooth and creamy if properly emulsified with a blender, or may result in an oily residue if simply stirred. |
| Flavor Profile | Notes of rich, buttery, and lush flavors, carefully crafted to complement Starbucks' coffee. | Dependent on the olive oil's profile (fruity, peppery, etc.) and the coffee bean's roast. |
| Availability | Discontinued in U.S. cafes as of late 2024, but may remain in other select international locations. | Can be prepared at home at any time, allowing for personal experimentation. |
Conclusion: The Oleato Experiment
In conclusion, Starbucks' foray into the olive oil coffee trend with its Oleato line was a significant—if controversial—beverage innovation. The company did, in fact, put olive oil in their coffee, a strategy inspired by a Mediterranean ritual. While the drinks were intended to offer a new, luxurious coffee experience with potential health benefits from the infused extra virgin olive oil, they were met with mixed reviews from customers. Criticisms, particularly regarding digestive side effects and taste preferences, ultimately led to the line's discontinuation in the U.S.. The Oleato story serves as a fascinating case study in consumer trends, innovation, and market response. While Starbucks has moved on from this particular offering in some regions, the trend of adding olive oil to coffee remains a niche interest for some health enthusiasts and culinary adventurers. For those curious to try it, a DIY approach using high-quality ingredients may offer a more controlled and palatable introduction to this unique combination.
