Starbucks has expanded its menu with a variety of protein-rich drinks, available from Monday, September 29. The new lineup includes Protein Cold Foam and Protein Lattes, offering beverages packed with up to 36 grams of protein per grande size. This move aligns with Starbucks’ strategy to modernize its menu and meet consumer demand for higher protein intake.
The Protein Cold Foam drinks feature flavors such as Iced Banana Cream Protein Matcha, Iced Vanilla Cream Protein Latte, and Chocolate Cream Protein Cold Brew. Customers can add Protein Cold Foam to any cold coffee, iced tea, or Refresher, increasing the protein content by 15 grams. The foam is available in several flavors, including banana, vanilla, chocolate, and more, with some options offering sugar-free alternatives.
Additionally, Starbucks has introduced four featured Protein Lattes, which are available both iced and hot: Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Matcha, Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Latte, Protein Matcha, and Vanilla Protein Matcha. The brand’s Protein-Boosted Milk, a combination of 2% milk and premium whey protein, can be used in any milk-based hot or iced drinks.
Early reviews praise the Iced Banana Cream Protein Matcha for its balanced taste and the Chocolate Cream Protein Cold Brew for its familiar flavor loved by fans of the Chocolate Cream Cold Foam. The Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Latte offers a light sweetness without added sugar.
In a bid to further meet consumer preferences, Starbucks plans to launch a ready-to-drink version of its protein-boosted milk in 2026 for sale in grocery and convenience stores. This initiative reflects consumer interest highlighted by an International Food Information Council study, which found that 70% of surveyed Americans want to increase their protein consumption.
As part of its fall menu, Starbucks is also reintroducing the Apple Crisp flavor starting October 14, featuring beverages such as the Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso and Apple Crisp Cream Cold Foam. Additional seasonal offerings include Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai, Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte, and the new Pecan Oatmilk Cortado.
Starbucks’ innovative approach to menu development showcases its commitment to catering to modern dietary preferences while continuing to delight customers with new and exciting flavors.