As the world’s largest coffee chain, Starbucks is no stranger to innovation and experimentation. From seasonal flavors to unique brewing methods, the company is constantly pushing the boundaries of what coffee can be. Recently, rumors have been circulating that Starbucks is putting olive oil in their coffee. But is this just a myth, or is there some truth to it?
What’s Behind the Olive Oil Rumor?
The rumor about Starbucks adding olive oil to their coffee originated from a recent product launch in Italy. In January 2023, Starbucks introduced a new line of coffee drinks infused with Partanna extra virgin olive oil. The drinks, which include a “Oleato” latte and cappuccino, are made with a drizzle of olive oil on top of the espresso and steamed milk.
While the idea of adding olive oil to coffee may seem unusual, it’s actually a traditional practice in some parts of Italy. In the southern region of Sicily, where Partanna olive oil is produced, it’s common to add a drizzle of olive oil to espresso for added flavor and health benefits.
So, Is Starbucks Putting Olive Oil in All Their Coffee Drinks?
Despite the launch of the Oleato line, it’s unlikely that Starbucks is adding olive oil to all their coffee drinks. The company has stated that the Oleato line is a unique offering, designed to showcase the flavors and health benefits of Partanna olive oil.
In fact, the Oleato line is only available in select Starbucks locations in Italy and the United States. If you’re a Starbucks customer in another country, it’s unlikely that you’ll find olive oil in your coffee anytime soon.
The Benefits of Adding Olive Oil to Coffee
So, why would anyone want to add olive oil to their coffee in the first place? As it turns out, there are several potential benefits to this unusual practice.
Health Benefits
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, which can provide a range of health benefits when consumed in moderation. Some of the potential health benefits of adding olive oil to coffee include:
- Improved heart health: The antioxidants and healthy fats in olive oil may help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Olive oil contains a compound called oleocanthal, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Improved cognitive function: The healthy fats in olive oil may help to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Flavor Benefits
In addition to its potential health benefits, olive oil can also add a unique and delicious flavor to coffee. The rich, fruity flavor of Partanna olive oil pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of espresso, creating a truly unique taste experience.
How to Try Olive Oil in Your Coffee at Home
If you’re curious about trying olive oil in your coffee, you don’t have to wait for Starbucks to launch the Oleato line in your area. Here are a few tips for adding olive oil to your coffee at home:
- Start with a high-quality olive oil: Look for a extra virgin olive oil with a rich, fruity flavor.
- Use a small amount: Start with a small amount of olive oil, such as a teaspoon or less, and adjust to taste.
- Add it to your coffee slowly: Drizzle the olive oil slowly into your coffee, allowing the flavors to meld together.
A Simple Recipe to Get You Started
Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 shot of espresso | Brew a shot of espresso using your preferred method. |
| 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil | Drizzle the olive oil slowly into the espresso, allowing the flavors to meld together. |
| 1 tablespoon of steamed milk (optional) | If desired, add a tablespoon of steamed milk to the espresso and olive oil mixture. |
Conclusion
While the idea of adding olive oil to coffee may seem unusual, it’s actually a traditional practice in some parts of Italy. With its potential health benefits and unique flavor, olive oil could be a great addition to your coffee routine.
Whether you’re a fan of Starbucks or just looking to try something new, the Oleato line is definitely worth checking out. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try adding olive oil to your coffee at home using the simple recipe above.
So, is Starbucks putting olive oil in their coffee? The answer is yes, but only in select locations and as part of their unique Oleato line. Whether or not you’ll find olive oil in your coffee at Starbucks, one thing is for sure: this unusual ingredient is definitely worth trying.
Is Starbucks really adding olive oil to their coffee?
Starbucks has indeed introduced a new line of coffee beverages that incorporate olive oil. This unique addition is part of their latest menu innovation, which aims to provide customers with a distinct and refreshing coffee experience. The olive oil is sourced from a renowned producer in Italy, ensuring high-quality and authentic flavor.
The addition of olive oil to their coffee is not a gimmick, but rather a thoughtful and intentional move to enhance the overall taste and texture of their beverages. By combining the richness of olive oil with the bold flavors of their coffee, Starbucks is offering customers a truly one-of-a-kind experience that sets them apart from other coffee chains.
What inspired Starbucks to add olive oil to their coffee?
The idea of adding olive oil to coffee was inspired by the traditional Italian practice of consuming a spoonful of olive oil before drinking coffee. This custom is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region, where olive oil is a staple ingredient in many cuisines. By incorporating this element into their coffee, Starbucks is paying homage to the rich cultural heritage of Italy and the Mediterranean.
Starbucks’ decision to add olive oil to their coffee was also driven by a desire to innovate and push the boundaries of traditional coffee-making. The company is constantly seeking new ways to surprise and delight their customers, and the addition of olive oil is just one example of their commitment to creativity and experimentation.
How does the olive oil affect the taste of the coffee?
The addition of olive oil to Starbucks’ coffee creates a unique and subtle flavor profile that complements the bold notes of the coffee. The olive oil adds a rich, velvety texture to the beverage, which enhances the overall mouthfeel and drinking experience. The flavor of the olive oil is not overpowering, but rather subtle and nuanced, allowing the natural flavors of the coffee to shine through.
The type of olive oil used by Starbucks is carefully selected to ensure that it pairs well with the coffee. The company has chosen a high-quality, extra-virgin olive oil that is smooth and buttery, with a hint of fruitiness. This flavor profile complements the coffee perfectly, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Is the olive oil used in all Starbucks coffee beverages?
No, the olive oil is not used in all Starbucks coffee beverages. The company has introduced a new line of coffee drinks that feature olive oil as a key ingredient, but not all of their menu items include this ingredient. Customers can choose from a variety of olive oil-infused coffee beverages, including lattes, cappuccinos, and cold brews.
The olive oil is added to the coffee in a specific ratio, which is designed to enhance the flavor and texture of the beverage without overpowering it. The amount of olive oil used can vary depending on the type of coffee drink and the customer’s personal preference. Baristas are trained to adjust the amount of olive oil to suit each customer’s taste.
Can customers customize their coffee with olive oil?
Yes, customers can customize their coffee with olive oil at Starbucks. Baristas are happy to accommodate requests for olive oil in any coffee beverage, even if it’s not a standard menu item. Customers can ask for a drizzle of olive oil on top of their coffee or request that it be mixed into their drink.
However, it’s worth noting that the olive oil is not available as a standard topping or modifier, so customers will need to specifically request it when ordering. Baristas may also offer recommendations on how to pair the olive oil with different coffee drinks, so don’t be afraid to ask for their expertise.
Is the olive oil used by Starbucks healthy?
The olive oil used by Starbucks is a high-quality, extra-virgin olive oil that is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats. Olive oil is a nutritious ingredient that has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving heart health.
However, it’s worth noting that the amount of olive oil used in Starbucks’ coffee beverages is relatively small, so the health benefits may be limited. Additionally, the calorie count of the coffee beverages may be higher due to the addition of olive oil, so customers should be mindful of their overall calorie intake.
Will the olive oil-infused coffee beverages be available at all Starbucks locations?
The olive oil-infused coffee beverages will be available at select Starbucks locations, including some of their flagship stores and cafes. The company is rolling out the new menu items in phases, so not all locations will offer the olive oil-infused coffee drinks immediately.
However, customers can expect to see the new menu items at most Starbucks locations in the coming months. The company is also offering the olive oil-infused coffee beverages in their online store, so customers can purchase them even if they’re not available in their local cafe.