Key Points
- Starbucks is adding Protein Lattes and Protein Cold Foam to its permanent menu starting September 29, 2025.
- The drinks deliver a protein boost, with lattes ranging from 27–36 grams of protein, and cold foam adding about 15 grams per drink.
- The launch highlights the demand for protein-packed choices at coffee shops and quick-service restaurants in the U.S. and Canada.
Starbucks is preparing to launch protein drinks this fall, aimed at customers who want more from their coffee than caffeine alone. Beginning September 29, stores in the U.S. and Canada will offer Protein Lattes and Protein Cold Foam, and they will be added to the menu permanently.
The lattes are made with 2% dairy milk blended with unflavored protein powder, turning a daily coffee into a drink with 27 to 36 grams of protein per grande (16-ounce) serving. The Protein Cold Foam adds a lighter option, topping iced drinks with a creamy layer that contributes about 15 grams of protein per grande.
Starbucks New Protein Drinks
Protein has become one of the most in-demand nutrients. A 2025 Americans’ Perception of Protein survey by the International Food Information Council found that 8 in 10 Americans say they’re taking protein at least once a day, and for the fifth straight year, protein is the nutrient that most Americans say they are trying to consume.
Starbucks is leaning into that demand by adding new protein drinks as a part of a menu modernization strategy. Tressie Lieberman, Starbucks' global chief brand officer, said, “As we continue to get back to Starbucks, we’re focused on modernizing our menu with innovative, relevant, and hype-worthy products that will resonate with our customers”.
He further added, “Our new protein beverages tap into the growing consumer demand for protein in an innovative, premium, and delicious way that only Starbucks can deliver.”
Both the lattes and cold foam will remain on the permanent menu year-round so that customers can add them to their routines anytime, not just during seasonal campaigns.
What Flavors Can You Expect?
Protein Cold Foam will be available in a wide range of flavors, allowing customers to customize their drinks. Some of the flavors include banana, chocolate, salted caramel, sugar-free vanilla, and even matcha. There will also be exciting seasonal flavors such as pecan and pumpkin.
Depending on the drink, a grande iced beverage with Protein Cold Foam can contain up to 26 grams of protein.
The lattes themselves won’t launch with specific flavor options, but all will be made with protein milk. Customers can also request protein-boosted milk in other milk beverages, such as Coconut Milk Refreshers and Iced Shaken Espresso, adding 12 to 16 grams of protein.
Nutrition Breakdown
Here’s a quick breakdown of the protein content customers can expect:
- Protein Cold Foam: about 15 grams of protein per grande drink, up to 26 grams in total when added to iced beverages.
- Protein Lattes: 27 to 36 grams of protein per grande, depending on preparation.
- Protein Milk Swap: boosts other beverages with 12 to 16 grams of protein per grande.
These amounts bring the drinks closer to the nutritional profile of a protein shake, while still retaining the familiar flavors and presentation of Starbucks beverages.
Other Coffee Shops Offering Protein Drinks
Starbucks certainly grabbed headlines, but you’ll also find protein-based drinks at a few other big-name chains in the United States.
Peet’s Coffee offers some protein drinks, “Golden Protein Latte,” “Vanilla Protein Latte,” and “Matcha Protein Latte” on its menu. Each medium-sized coffee comes with at least 20 grams of whey protein and is available in both hot and iced options.
Dutch Bros Coffee has been ahead of the trend for a long time. Their menu includes several protein-based drinks, such as Golden Eagle Protein, Vanilla Protein Latte, and Hopscotch Protein Mocha. They are all made with protein milk and contain zero added sugars, and are available at over 800 locations across the United States.
The Bottom Line
Starbucks has long been recognized for its seasonal flavors, specialty drinks, and innovations, such as oat milk and cold brew. By adding protein-based beverages to its core menu, the brand is acknowledging how wellness trends are shaping customer choices. For regular coffee drinkers, it’s another option to enjoy familiar flavors with an added nutritional benefit.
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