The Expanding Non-Dairy Lineup at Starbucks
Over the years, Starbucks has significantly expanded its non-dairy offerings to cater to the growing number of customers with dietary preferences, intolerances, or allergies. Beginning with soymilk in 1997, the lineup has grown to include coconutmilk, almondmilk, and oatmilk. The availability of these options allows for greater customization of a wide range of beverages, from lattes and macchiatos to refreshers and cold brews. A notable recent change is the removal of the extra charge for non-dairy milk customizations in many regions, making these options more accessible to all customers.
What Does Starbucks Use for Non-Dairy? A Closer Look at the Milks
Each non-dairy milk at Starbucks has a unique profile, from the brand or formula used to its nutritional content and flavor. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone managing their nutrition diet.
Oat Milk (Oatly)
Starbucks primarily uses Oatly Barista Edition for its oat milk, though some locations may use alternatives. Oatly is a popular choice known for its creamy texture and ability to foam well, making it ideal for espresso-based drinks. The Barista Edition is specifically formulated for coffee shops to achieve a superior mouthfeel. From a nutrition diet perspective, oat milk is often higher in carbohydrates and calories than almond milk due to the natural sugars in oats but contains more fiber.
Almond Milk
Starbucks uses its own proprietary brand of almond milk, which, like many store-bought varieties, contains more than just almonds and water. The ingredients typically include filtered water, almonds, sugar, calcium carbonate, and a mix of thickeners and stabilizers like sunflower lecithin, xanthan gum, and guar gum. It is important to note that Starbucks' almond milk is sweetened, which adds to the overall sugar content of the beverage. Despite this, it remains the lowest-calorie non-dairy option on the menu.
Soy Milk
For its soy milk, Starbucks generally uses a proprietary, vanilla-flavored blend. Some past sources indicated a connection to the Silk brand via a supplier, but the product is Starbucks-branded. As it is vanilla-flavored and sweetened, this option can add a significant amount of sugar to your drink. The flavor is often described as smooth and creamy, without the earthy taste of unsweetened soy milk. It froths well for lattes and cappuccinos.
Coconut Milk
Starbucks' coconut milk is also a proprietary blend, rather than a commercially available brand. It is made from a combination of coconut cream, coconut water, and additional ingredients to ensure a stable consistency suitable for coffee. This tropical-tasting, non-dairy milk is often used in refreshing drinks like the Pink Drink and Dragon Drink®. It is important to remember that this, too, is a sweetened product and should be factored into your daily sugar intake.
Key Additives and Considerations
For those on a specific nutrition diet, especially those with sensitivities, it's worth noting the additives in these plant-based milks. Ingredients like carrageenan (in coconut and soy milk) and xanthan gum (in almond and coconut milk) are used for texture and stability. While generally recognized as safe, some people prefer to avoid these ingredients. Additionally, the fortification of these milks with vitamins like D2 and A adds to their nutritional profile.
Comparison of Starbucks Non-Dairy Milks
| Feature | Oat Milk (Oatly) | Almond Milk | Soy Milk | Coconut Milk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | Higher | Lowest | Mid-range | Low-Mid-range |
| Sugar (per cup) | Moderate (natural) | Lower (added) | Highest (added) | Lower (added) |
| Carbohydrates | Highest | Low | High | Low-Mid |
| Fat | Moderate | Low | Moderate | Moderate |
| Protein | Low-Moderate | Low | Highest | Low |
| Texture | Creamiest, foams well | Thin, subtle nuttiness | Rich, smooth, foams well | Tropical, lighter body |
| Noteworthy | Excellent for lattes | Lowest calorie option | Vanilla-flavored & sweetened | Tropical flavor, sweetened |
How to Customize Your Non-Dairy Order
Making informed choices starts with the ordering process. Here is a brief guide to help you navigate your non-dairy nutrition diet at Starbucks:
- For lower calorie counts: Almond milk is your best option, though remember it is sweetened. Consider a cold brew or americano with a splash of almond milk instead of a latte.
- For a creamier texture: Oat milk is the top choice for a rich, dairy-like feel in espresso beverages. Soy milk is also a good contender for its foamability.
- For reduced sugar: While all Starbucks non-dairy milks are sweetened, you can significantly reduce sugar by opting for an unsweetened splash in a non-milk-based drink. Always request fewer pumps of syrup or opt for a sugar-free sweetener.
- Exploring different drinks: Take advantage of the dedicated non-dairy menu items, such as the Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso or the Paradise Drink made with coconut milk.
Conclusion: Making the Right Non-Dairy Choice
When you ask what does Starbucks use for non-dairy?, the answer is a diverse array of plant-based milks, each with its own taste and nutritional profile. The best choice for your nutrition diet depends on your specific goals. For low calories, almond milk is the winner. For a creamy texture, oat milk is the standout. For a higher protein content, soy milk is the best bet, though with the highest added sugar. Being aware of the added sugars in these proprietary milks is the first step toward making a more informed decision. By understanding the options and their nutritional nuances, you can continue to enjoy your Starbucks favorites while staying on track with your health goals.
For more information on the ingredients and nutritional details of specific Starbucks products, you can visit their official nutrition and allergens page, which allows you to customize and view nutrition for each drink.
