Something’s changing at your local Starbucks, and it’s not just the fall leaves. Starting September 29, the coffee giant is rolling out Protein Cold Foam and Protein Lattes across the U.S. and Canada, just in time for National Coffee Day. But this isn’t another seasonal swirl. These new options are here to stay.
If you’ve ever wished your morning coffee packed more punch, this might be the moment. Starbucks has been quietly working behind the scenes to rethink what a latte can be, blending smooth textures with serious nutritional goals. The result? A lineup that adds 19 to 36 grams of protein to your drink, depending on what you order. That’s nearly the same as a grilled chicken sandwich at McDonald’s, but with oatmilk foam and banana flavor instead of buns and mayo.
What’s in It and Why It Matters
The core of the innovation is a new protein powder that baristas blend directly into either cold foam or warm milk. It’s dairy-based, made in store, and not plant-based, so it won’t work for those avoiding milk proteins. But for many guests, it delivers what Starbucks says more people are craving: flavor without compromise, and real fuel that fits a busy lifestyle.
Flavors include vanilla, chocolate, matcha, banana, salted caramel, brown sugar, plain, and sugar-free vanilla. Pecan and pumpkin are available seasonally. The foam can sit atop everything from cold brews to iced teas, even Refreshers. You’ll also be able to swap in protein-boosted 2% milk for your usual dairy, adding up to 16 grams of protein per grande without changing your go-to order.
Compared to McDonald’s new smoothie menu or Dutch Bros’ protein lattes, Starbucks enters the race late but with full force. There’s a clear message: protein is no longer a niche. It’s the new baseline.
Why Starbucks Is Doing This
Behind the scenes, this rollout traces back to the 2025 Starbucks Leadership Experience and its Starting Five menu test. The company has been steadily rebuilding customer traffic by modernizing its offerings, leaning into what people actually want right now. According to the 2025 IFIC Food & Health Survey, 70% of Americans say they’re actively trying to consume more protein. Starbucks isn’t just listening, it’s answering.
National Coffee Day provides the perfect media moment. News sites from Axios to AllRecipes are already spotlighting the launch, and early taste tests call the banana Protein Cold Foam “lightly sweet and surprisingly smooth.” While pricing isn’t confirmed yet, Starbucks fans seem ready to pay for what feels like a functional upgrade.
There’s also a lifestyle angle here. As fast food chains like McDonald’s begin offering more balanced breakfast items and plant-forward menus, Starbucks is leaning into the nutrition space with protein and texture. It’s not a new sandwich, but it might be a new ritual.
