As the world becomes increasingly health-conscious, the demand for plant-based milk alternatives has skyrocketed. Among the various options available, oatmilk has emerged as a popular choice, particularly among coffee lovers. Starbucks, the global coffee giant, has taken notice of this trend and now offers oatmilk as a non-dairy milk option in many of its locations. But have you ever wondered what type of oatmilk Starbucks uses?
Understanding Oatmilk
Before we dive into the specifics of Starbucks’ oatmilk, let’s take a brief look at what oatmilk is and how it’s made. Oatmilk is a plant-based milk alternative made by soaking oats in water and blending them with water. The mixture is then strained to remove the oat pulp, leaving behind a creamy liquid that can be used as a substitute for dairy milk.
Oatmilk is a popular choice among those with dairy allergies or intolerances, as well as those who follow a vegan diet. It’s also a more sustainable option than traditional dairy milk, requiring less water and land to produce.
Types of Oatmilk
There are several types of oatmilk available in the market, each with its own unique characteristics and nutritional profile. Some of the most common types of oatmilk include:
- Barista-style oatmilk: This type of oatmilk is specifically designed for use in coffee and other beverages. It’s typically thicker and creamier than other types of oatmilk, making it ideal for frothing and foaming.
- Organic oatmilk: This type of oatmilk is made from organic oats and is free from pesticides and other chemicals.
- Flavored oatmilk: This type of oatmilk comes in a variety of flavors, such as vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.
Starbucks’ Oatmilk Supplier
So, what type of oatmilk does Starbucks use? According to the company’s website, Starbucks uses a proprietary oatmilk blend that is specifically designed for use in their beverages. The oatmilk is supplied by Oatly, a Swedish company that specializes in oat-based products.
Oatly’s barista-style oatmilk is made from a blend of oats, water, and a touch of sea salt. It’s free from common allergens like nuts, dairy, and soy, making it a great option for customers with dietary restrictions.
Why Oatly?
So, why did Starbucks choose Oatly as its oatmilk supplier? According to a statement from Starbucks, the company was impressed by Oatly’s commitment to sustainability and its high-quality products.
“Oatly is a leader in the oatmilk category, and we’re excited to partner with them to offer our customers a delicious and sustainable non-dairy milk option,” said a Starbucks spokesperson.
Nutritional Information
But what about the nutritional information of Starbucks’ oatmilk? According to the company’s website, a grande-sized oatmilk latte made with Oatly’s barista-style oatmilk contains:
- 120 calories
- 2g of fat
- 24g of carbohydrates
- 2g of protein
It’s worth noting that these values may vary depending on the specific drink and size.
Comparison to Other Non-Dairy Milks
How does Starbucks’ oatmilk compare to other non-dairy milks? Here’s a comparison of the nutritional information of oatmilk, almond milk, and soy milk:
| Milk Type | Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oatmilk | 120 | 2g | 24g | 2g |
| Almond Milk | 60 | 2.5g | 8g | 1g |
| Soy Milk | 80 | 3.5g | 8g | 8g |
As you can see, oatmilk has a higher calorie and carbohydrate content compared to almond milk and soy milk. However, it’s also a good source of fiber and has a creamy texture that many customers love.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Starbucks uses a proprietary oatmilk blend supplied by Oatly, a Swedish company that specializes in oat-based products. The oatmilk is made from a blend of oats, water, and a touch of sea salt, and is free from common allergens like nuts, dairy, and soy. While it has a higher calorie and carbohydrate content compared to other non-dairy milks, it’s also a good source of fiber and has a creamy texture that many customers love.
Whether you’re a coffee lover or just looking for a delicious and sustainable non-dairy milk option, Starbucks’ oatmilk is definitely worth trying.
What type of oat milk does Starbucks use?
Starbucks uses a proprietary oat milk recipe that is specifically designed to work well with their coffee and other beverages. The exact formulation of their oat milk is not publicly disclosed, but it is known to be made from oats that are sourced from a variety of suppliers.
The company has stated that they worked closely with their suppliers to develop a unique oat milk recipe that meets their high standards for taste and quality. This recipe is used in all of their oat milk-based beverages, including lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos.
Is the oat milk used by Starbucks organic?
The oat milk used by Starbucks is not necessarily organic, although the company does offer some organic options. The oats used to make their oat milk are sourced from a variety of suppliers, and some of these suppliers may use organic farming practices.
However, Starbucks does not guarantee that all of their oat milk is organic, and customers who are looking for organic options may want to ask their barista about the specific ingredients used in their beverage. The company does offer some organic oat milk options, but these may not be available at all locations.
Is the oat milk used by Starbucks non-GMO?
Starbucks has stated that their oat milk is non-GMO, meaning that it is made from oats that have not been genetically modified. The company has a commitment to using high-quality, non-GMO ingredients in all of their beverages.
However, it’s worth noting that the non-GMO status of Starbucks’ oat milk may not be certified by a third-party organization. While the company claims to use non-GMO oats, some customers may still have concerns about the sourcing and production of their oat milk.
Can I purchase the oat milk used by Starbucks in stores?
The oat milk used by Starbucks is not currently available for purchase in stores. The company has a proprietary recipe that is only used in their coffee shops, and it is not sold as a retail product.
However, customers can purchase oat milk from other brands at most grocery stores. Some popular brands of oat milk include Oatly, Silk, and So Delicious. These brands offer a range of oat milk products, including flavored and unflavored options.
How does the oat milk used by Starbucks compare to other brands?
The oat milk used by Starbucks is known for its rich, creamy texture and subtle flavor. Compared to other brands of oat milk, Starbucks’ oat milk is often described as more velvety and smooth.
However, the taste and texture of oat milk can vary depending on the brand and type of oats used. Some customers may prefer the taste and texture of other brands, such as Oatly or Silk. Ultimately, the best brand of oat milk will depend on personal preference.
Is the oat milk used by Starbucks suitable for customers with dairy allergies?
Yes, the oat milk used by Starbucks is suitable for customers with dairy allergies. Oat milk is a plant-based milk alternative that is naturally free from dairy proteins.
However, customers with dairy allergies should be aware that Starbucks’ oat milk may be processed in facilities that also handle dairy products. While the company takes steps to minimize cross-contamination, there is still a risk of exposure to dairy proteins.
Can I customize my Starbucks beverage with a different type of oat milk?
While Starbucks offers a proprietary oat milk recipe, customers can customize their beverages with other types of non-dairy milk. The company offers a range of non-dairy milk alternatives, including almond milk, soy milk, and coconut milk.
However, customers cannot bring in their own oat milk or request a different type of oat milk. The company’s proprietary oat milk recipe is the only oat milk option available at Starbucks locations.