The Absolute Lowest-Calorie Options at Costa
When it comes to minimizing calories, the rule of thumb at any coffee shop is to stick to the basics: no milk, no sugar, no syrups. At Costa, this leads to two clear frontrunners.
- Espresso: A single or double shot of Espresso contains only 6-12 calories, depending on the extraction. It's a quick, concentrated caffeine hit with minimal calories.
- Tea Infusions: Simple, freshly brewed teas like Earl Grey or Jasmine contain just 1 calorie per cup. Fruit infusions like Mint or Berry are also extremely low, typically 1-5 calories.
These options are ideal for strict calorie counters but might not satisfy everyone's taste buds. Fortunately, several other choices offer great flavour without a significant calorie increase.
Low-Calorie Coffee Options with a Little More
For those who prefer a longer or creamier drink, customization is key. You can enjoy a satisfying coffee with minimal calories by making smart choices.
- Americano: A classic Americano, made with espresso and hot water, ranges from 6 to 23 calories, depending on the size. You can add a splash of skimmed milk for a tiny calorie increase.
- Flat Black: Similar to an Americano, a small Flat Black is just 11 calories and delivers a bold, smooth flavour.
- Cold Brew Coffee Black: For a chilled option, the Medium Cold Brew Black has just 8 calories.
- Customised Latte or Cappuccino: By ordering a 'mini' or 'small' size and requesting skimmed milk, you can dramatically reduce the calories. A mini cappuccino with skimmed milk is 62 calories, and a small latte is 81 calories.
How to Customise Your Costa Drink for Fewer Calories
To enjoy your favourite Costa drinks without the calorie guilt, follow these simple steps:
- Switch Your Milk: Opt for skimmed milk or dairy-free alternatives. While plant-based milks like oat and almond can sometimes contain more calories, skimmed milk is consistently the lowest calorie dairy option.
- Skip the Syrup: Flavoured syrups are often loaded with sugar and calories. Ask for a sugar-free vanilla or caramel syrup instead. For example, a small Iced Latte with skimmed milk and sugar-free syrup would be a low-calorie treat.
- Lose the Cream: Whipped cream, chocolate toppings, and caramel drizzles add unnecessary calories. A plain drink is always the healthier choice.
- Go Mini: Choosing the smallest cup size is a simple and effective way to reduce both calories and sugar intake.
- Choose Your Flavours Wisely: If you want flavour, look for options that don't rely on sugary additions. For instance, the Mango with Zinc Superfuzion Tea has only 6 calories and offers a different flavour profile.
Comparison of Common Costa Drinks
This table highlights the calorie differences between common drink choices at Costa to help you make a more informed decision. All data is based on available nutritional information, assuming standard preparation unless specified.
| Drink (Standard) | Standard Calories (Approx.) | Customised Low-Calorie Option | Customised Calories (Approx.) | Calorie-Saving Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Large Americano (Black) | 23 kcal | Large Americano (Black) | 23 kcal | Default is already low-cal. |
| Regular Latte (Semi-Skimmed) | ~172 kcal | Small Latte (Skimmed Milk) | ~81 kcal | Choose a smaller size and lighter milk. |
| Regular Mocha | ~182 kcal | Mocha Cortado (Skimmed Milk) | ~92 kcal | Opt for a smaller, less milky version. |
| Regular Cappuccino (Semi-Skimmed) | ~115 kcal | Mini Cappuccino (Skimmed Milk) | ~62 kcal | Go smaller and lighter on the milk. |
| Salted Caramel Frappé | ~291 kcal | Not Recommended | N/A | Stick to a low-calorie tea or coffee instead. |
| Medium Hot Chocolate | ~197 kcal | Not Recommended | N/A | High in sugar and calories; avoid for low-cal. |
Conclusion: Your Healthiest Costa Order
The easiest way to get the least calories at Costa is to order a straight espresso or a brewed tea. For a larger drink, a black Americano or a black Cold Brew are excellent options. If you prefer a creamy coffee, a mini cappuccino or small latte with skimmed milk and a sugar-free syrup is the perfect customisation. Armed with this knowledge, you can enjoy your Costa treat without compromising your health goals.
More Low-Calorie Hacks
- Consider an Iced Americano: It’s simply espresso and cold water, a refreshing choice with almost no calories.
- Embrace the Infusions: The various fruit and herbal tea infusions offer a burst of flavour with negligible calories and no added sugar.
- Be Mindful of Toppings: All the delicious extras, like sprinkles, sauce drizzles, and whipped cream, come with a significant calorie cost. Politely ask your barista to skip them.
- Check the App: For the most up-to-date information, check the Costa app for precise nutritional data on your specific beverage choice.
Following these simple principles will allow you to enjoy your favourite coffee shop while staying on track with your health and wellness goals.
