As the end of 2020 is coming, there is much to look forward to for the next year. For many, that is returning to the usual ways that we do things before the pandemic.
On the other hand, others expect simpler things like the new Starbucks milk option that would be rolled out by the spring of 2021.
According to Taste Of Home, the non-dairy trend became a big sensation this year, even becoming more popular than soy and almond milk.
As a result, brands like Dunkin took notice and made a move to introduce their Iced Oat Milk Latte. Following Dunkin on this endeavor is Starbucks, which decided to incorporate oat milk in its menu for next year.
Related reports from Delish also said that while oat milk has been available regionally, this time, it will be nationally available for the first time in spring 2021.
The update was announced as part of an update on the company's sustainability efforts. Starbucks is also planning to diversify its energy sources and targets 50 percent reduction in waste and carbon emission and water reuse by 2030.
Furthermore, the company is also allotting an investment of $50 million to support an existing program that aims to help coffee farmers grow and harvest their crops more sustainably and keep net-zero emissions in dairy farming.
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Non-Dairy Milk Alternatives
Because of popular demand, Starbucks decided to carry the new alternative milk. Related reports reveal that customer interest in plant-based foods has increased 29 percent over the past two years.
Before this, Starbucks debuted soy milk in 1997 and added almond milk to its menu in 2016. Moreover, the company aims to continue its innovation with non-dairy options.
However, Starbucks admittedly stated that alternative milk cost more than dairy. They also mentioned that as a company, they experience something very similar to what a consumer experiences when purchasing a non-dairy product in their local grocery store. But they clarified that the charge only applies mostly to handcrafted espresso-and-milk beverages.
Starbucks chief operating office Roz Brewer said they expect non-dairy milk costs to decrease as the supply chain for plant-based options matures, which will be passed onto their customers.
The Battle Of Non-Dairy Milk Options
While many are anticipating the release of this new non-dairy milk drink from Starbucks, Dunkin is currently savoring the spotlight with its Iced Oat Milk Latte.
This new drink is dairy-free, gluten-free, and a delicious substitute for your regular milk. It features the creamy goodness of oat milk with the smooth, handcrafted richness of espresso.
If you have never had it before, oat milk is a milk alternative that skips the dairy, soy, nuts, and gluten. It is best for lactose intolerant individuals or those who are not fond of the regular cow's milk taste. It is also the best option for vegans since it is a plant-based alternative.
The Iced Oat Milk Latte is already available nationwide and will be a permanent addition to Dunkin's menu. Ahead of Starbucks, Dunkin was one of the first national quick-service restaurants to have oat milk available at all its U.S. locations.
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