Starbucks is officially entering the protein game. Beginning September 29, stores across the U.S. and Canada will launch a new lineup of Protein Cold Foam and Protein Lattes, marking one of the brand’s most significant beverage innovations in recent years. The move is part of Starbucks’ broader push to “modernize” its menu and meet growing consumer demand for functional, nutrient-rich drinks.
According to the company, each grande-sized drink will contain between 15 to 36 grams of protein, depending on the customization. That’s enough to rival many post-workout shakes—and it’s all available at the drive-thru.
What’s in the Foam?
The new Protein Cold Foam is a creamy, frothy topping made from dairy-based protein powder blended into a neutral cold foam base. It adds about 15 grams of protein to any cold beverage and can be layered onto iced coffee, tea, or Refreshers.
Flavors include:
- Vanilla & Sugar-Free Vanilla
- Chocolate
- Matcha
- Salted Caramel
- Brown Sugar
- Plain
- Seasonal options: Pumpkin & Pecan
- A brand-new Banana flavor, which was tested earlier this year and received rave reviews.
Each iced drink topped with Protein Cold Foam will deliver 19 to 26 grams of protein per grande, depending on the base beverage.
Protein Lattes and Customization
Also launching is a new line of Protein Lattes, made with Protein-boosted Milk—a blend of 2% dairy milk and unflavored protein powder crafted fresh daily by baristas. These lattes pack 27 to 36 grams of protein per grande and will be available in a variety of flavors, though Starbucks has yet to reveal the full lineup.
Customers can also customize any milk-based drink—like cappuccinos, hot chocolates, or shaken espressos—with Protein-boosted Milk, adding 12 to 16 grams of protein to their beverage.
The Starting Five Strategy
The new protein offerings were developed through Starbucks’ Starting Five innovation program, which tests new products in select stores before rolling them out nationwide. Protein Cold Foam was the first “breakthrough innovation” to emerge from this initiative, and its success signals more functional beverage launches to come.
According to the 2025 IFIC Food & Health Survey, 70% of Americans say they’re actively trying to consume more protein. Starbucks is tapping into this trend with a menu that blends indulgence and nutrition—without compromising flavor. As global chief brand officer Tressie Lieberman put it, “Our new protein beverages tap into the growing consumer demand for protein in an innovative, premium, and delicious way that only Starbucks can deliver”.
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