Popular coffee shop Starbucks has been responding to requests for healthier choices, particularly with milk varieties. With veganism on the rise, as well as allergies, diets, lactose intolerance, and other health and lifestyle concerns, Starbucks has decided to adjust to the needs of their consumers.
Reuters has released a news report confirming that Starbucks Corp is trying out coconut milk in a number of stores in the United States. Coconut milk will serve as an alternative for those who wish for a non-dairy coffee treat (or any Starbucks drink for that matter).
According to the report, a spokesperson from Starbucks refused to comment regarding the number of stores to offer coconut milk. Meanwhile, it was clarified that Starbucks is not yet trying out almond milk due to the high allergy rate of consumers to nuts. Though almond milk may be a popular option for non-dairy buffs, the coffee shop chain is still examining if there is a possibility of offering almond milk as well.
According to market research firm Mintel, the sales of dairy milk products and nondairy options increased to 1.8 percent, or $ 24.5 billion, from 2011 to 2013. An increase of 33 percent was observed in the alternative milk category, which is around $2 billion.
This is understandable and even expected, what with the rise of information regarding the negative costs of consuming dairy on a regular basis. The industrialized food system of America makes it difficult for consumers to choose the dairy products they buy, with an attempt to avoid highly processed food products as much as they can. Milk is one of the products highly susceptible to genetical modification, which is the road to poor health. Going organic, or at least choosing products like soy instead of cow's milk, have been the go-to of many health-conscious individuals. Alternatives to dairy such as coconut milk are all the rage these days, and Starbucks has timely responded to such needs.
