Starbucks Introduces New Boba-Inspired Drinks: A Dietitian’s Perspective

Starbucks has kicked off its summer menu with the launch of three enticing beverages: the Summer-Berry Refresher, Summer-Berry Lemonade Refresher, and a non-dairy Summer Skies Drink. What sets these drinks apart? They are Starbucks’ unique take on boba or bubble tea, featuring “juicy raspberry flavored pearls” inspired by the beloved East Asian beverages.

Simon Vuong, Starbucks’ beverage developer, expressed the company’s excitement about these new offerings, stating, “We started with fruit pieces, but we wanted something even bolder. So, we thought, ‘Let’s put fruit-flavored pearls in the beverage and try it out.’ It’s very fun the way it delivers the flavor when it pops in your mouth.”

While these boba-inspired drinks may sound like a delightful way to beat the summer heat, what about their nutritional value? Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients and nutritional information of these Starbucks creations, as reviewed by three registered dietitians.

What’s Inside Starbucks’ Bubble Tea-Inspired Drinks?

The foundation of Starbucks’ Summer-Berry drinks resembles that of its other Refreshers or non-dairy beverages: a sweetened Summer-Berry base infused with raspberry, blueberry, and blackberry flavors, served over ice or mixed with lemonade or coconut milk.

The distinguishing feature of these new drinks lies in the addition of raspberry-flavored pearls, crafted from a blend of water, sugar, calcium lactate, sodium alginate, and vegetable juice concentrate, among other ingredients.

Traditionally, bubble tea pearls are made from tapioca, a starch extracted from cassava root. According to Scott Keatley, RD, while tapioca-based pearls may present some gastrointestinal discomfort, such as constipation, Starbucks’ pearls are less likely to cause such side effects. However, Keatley advises moderation due to potential sugar content and other digestive considerations.

In summary, while Starbucks’ boba-inspired drinks offer a playful twist on their classic beverages, it’s important to enjoy them in moderation, mindful of their sugar content and potential digestive effects.

Latest

Dakasi Tea Franchise Costs, Profit & Requirements For 2024

DAKASI Tea, a renowned milk tea brand, originated in Taiwan in 1990. Over the years, it has gained immense popularity, expanding its reach to...

One of the Most Exciting New Orleans Restaurants of 2023 Is Expanding

A year after debuting their acclaimed Indian restaurant LUFU NOLA, chefs Sarthak Samantray, Aman Kota, and Sachin Darade are broadening their culinary footprint in...

Twinings Sparkling Tea Line Offers Low-Calorie Refreshment With Wellness In Mind

Twinings has introduced a new line of ready-to-drink sparkling teas, designed to cater to the growing demand for functional beverages that offer both refreshment...

5 New CHAGEE Drinks

CHAGEE, a renowned brand in the milk tea industry, continues to captivate tea lovers worldwide with its innovative and delightful beverages. Known for its...

CHEEGE Franchise Costs, Profit & Requirements For 2024

Investing in a franchise can be a great way to enter the food and beverage industry with an established brand and a loyal customer...

What is coffee franchise opportunities?

In the dynamic world of business, entrepreneurs are constantly seeking promising avenues to invest their time and resources. One sector that has witnessed significant...

Khab Tapioca Franchise Costs, Profit & Requirements For 2024

Khab Tapioca is a renowned brand specializing in tapioca-based products, particularly tapioca drinks. Originating from the heart of the tapioca craze, Khab Tapioca has...