Starbucks brings a protein-packed twist to your favorite beverages with a new range of protein-rich drinks. The latest addition to their menu, which were tasted and approved by Food & Wine, includes seven unique offerings enriched with Starbucks’ brand-new Protein-Boosted milk.

Starbucks shared with Food & Wine that it’s welcoming an Iced Banana Cream Protein Matcha, an Iced Vanilla Cream Protein Latte, a Chocolate Cream Protein Cold Brew, a Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Matcha, a Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Latte, a Protein Matcha, and a Vanilla Protein Latte into its line-up.

The premium element in these drinks, Protein-Boosted milk, can be added to any milk-based drink on the menu or combined with high-protein cold foam, broadening the scope of bespoke drink options.

With protein quantities measuring up to 16 grams in a regular-sized Protein-Boosted latte and up to 36 grams in Starbucks' latest cold foam invention, these beverages are a nutrient-dense and convenient solution. They pack in the protein equivalent of six large eggs or a handful of beef jerky.

Food & Wine pointed out their discovery of this protein-packed cold foam when Starbucks teased the recipe during its Leadership Experience conference. As summer progressed, Starbucks confirmed the availability of this protein supplement for most of their drinks.

Although protein powders are often known for their chalky texture and excessively sweet taste, Starbucks' version surprised tasters. The latte and cold foam concoctions lacked the notorious chalky feel and promised a typical latte's taste with a bonus hint of sweetness.

In line with today's announcement, Starbucks plans to debut its high-protein milk for purchase in stores by the end of the year. The Protein-Boosted milk adds a subtle creamy finish to the drinks, making the Iced Banana Cream Protein Matcha taste like a creamy smoothie.

The introduction of these protein-packed beverages dovetails with Starbucks' ongoing wide-reaching revamp - changes to its menu offerings and corporate restructuring. As reported by Reuters, the corporation recently closed several US outlets, including its iconic Seattle roastery, as part of a $1 billion restructuring plan.

Brian Niccol, Starbucks' CEO, stated that despite the elimination of about 900 non-retail partner roles, the company's focus remains on managing costs while targeting long-term growth. In the same vein, Starbucks decreased its menu by roughly 30% in February, suggesting the launch of new products like these protein beverages.

Tressie Lieberman, Starbucks' global chief brand officer, reaffirmed the company's commitment to innovate and deliver products that resonate with consumers, stating that the new protein drinks tapped into the growing demand for nutritious yet delicious products. Although this protein-centric initiative's popularity with Starbucks' global consumer base remains to be seen, it has undoubtedly piqued consumer interest.