Starbucks Fall Drinks
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The G.O.A.T buys oats
Greatest Of All Time coffee empire Starbucks expands dairy-free and vegan menu.
Quick! What is the first thought that comes to mind in the morning? For most, it’s “I need coffee,” if it isn’t, you’re a monster. There’s something magical about that first sip of piping hot coffee when it’s made just right, with a hot shot of espresso piercing its way through warm foamy milk topped with idyllic toppings. Yes, of course, there’s an element of science that caffeine restores temporary alertness, but it goes deeper than that. Whether you are running around completing a never-ending to-do list or typing up last-minute reports, that cup of coffee is your moment no one can take it from you. With all that’s going on in life, a little cup of happiness goes a long way.
Since its inception in 1971 Starbucks has made itself a household name. From a simple pike roast coffee to going above and beyond with extra whip for their customers. They have now taken one step further to ensure their customers' satisfaction. Starbucks has been a trailblazer in the market to introduce dairy-free options to it’s menu. Since 1997 Starbucks has had soy milk as a dairy-free option. With continuous innovation and seasonal flavours, they have adapted to their market requests. Starbucks launched its coconut beverage alternative in 2015 and expanded in 2016 adding an almond beverage alternative to the menu. With the increase in dairy-free beverage options, Starbucks has also continued to expand its vegan menu as well.
2020 has been a banner year for Starbucks — not only have they added Beyond Meat breakfast sandwiches to the menu, but they have introduced oat milk. With the cooler weather approaching, there’s nothing better than a hot cup of coffee to wrap your hands around with an aroma of nostalgic autumnal scents like pumpkin spice and apple flat white.
The apple flat white may not seem familiar on the Starbucks menu because it only recently launched in celebration of the oat milk addition. Joining its 17-year-old sibling, the pumpkin spice latte — this beverage includes the company’s signature espresso, roasted apple syrup, and warmly steamed oat milk with clove sugar on top to add the extra detail Starbucks is known so well for. If apples aren’t your preferred pick there are a few secret menu items that don’t include apples or pumpkin. First is the oat honey latte, which is the traditional oat latte with a couple of pumps of honey and toasted honey topping. Another alternative is the toffee nut flat white, a classic flat white with a couple of pumps of toffee nut and, of course, substitute for oat milk.
If that wasn’t enough, Starbucks knows the best place to be in a time like this is home. Social distancing can be difficult, but to enhance the experience, Starbucks has created a hotline 1-833-GET-FALL. This phone call transports callers to their ideal fall scene: whether it’s the sound of a crackling fire or crunchy leaves, Starbucks has you covered — all that’s left is a chunky knit sweater and a fresh autumn sunset. Who says you can’t have a tailgate party with coffee?
Typically, Canadians are the last to party when it comes to new product launches from American companies. Not this time! Oat milk beverages this season are exclusive to company-owned Canadian stores. This will be the company’s fourth dairy-free option and will complement any decadent coffee with a nutty aroma, without the concern of dietary restrictions. May as well rub it in on social media and share the news with our American neighbours that Canadians know how to a latte right.
With zero grams of sugar and as little as 90 calories per cup, there is a reason oat milk has been climbing the ranks over other milk alternatives. Oat milk sales have increased by 400% this past year in Canada. Starbucks listened to the requests of their consumers and decided to add it to their menu. Oats are also one of the most underrated crops in Canada and are one of the most sustainable products currently on the market when compared to dairy and dairy-free beverages. Taking up little landmass and using 93% less water for production; this benefits customers, farmers and our planet. It is one step closer to reaching Starbucks’ sustainability goal of being planet positive by 2030.
While customers continue to contently sip their coffee, Starbucks also has a loyalty program to thank those who continuously support the coffee empire. It is free to sign up and gold members can receive free refills*, a free birthday item, points for every dollar earned to earn free baked goods, coffee and product*. For more information visit www.starbucks.ca. The only question left is how do you take your coffee?
*conditions apply
