Starbucks Tests Healthier Menu Amid RFK Jr.’s Health Crackdown

Starbucks Tests Healthier Menu Amid RFK Jr.’s Health Crackdown

Starbucks, once synonymous with syrupy Frappuccinos and colorful refreshers, is pivoting toward a cleaner, lower-sugar future. In response to shifting consumer tastes and political pressure, the company is experimenting with coconut water drinks, protein-infused cold foam, and syrups made with agave and dates, according to Bloomberg.

The changes come as U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. continues to push his “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) campaign, which encourages corporations to reduce added sugar and synthetic ingredients. Erik McLean / Unsplash

1. Coconut Water Cold Brew Is in Testing

Starbucks is currently trialing new cold beverages made with coconut water at five stores in the New York area. These drinks contain about one-third the sugar of the chain’s summer berry lemonade refresher and come with added electrolytes. A larger regional test is expected to follow soon. The move reflects growing interest in functional, lower-sugar hydration. Towfiqu barbhuiya / Unsplash

2. Alternative Sweeteners Are On the Table

The company is actively exploring syrups made with natural sweeteners like agave, dates, and coconut. These would replace traditional cane sugar in some beverages. According to Dana Pellicano, who leads product development, Starbucks is also “actively working on” other sugar-free drinks. The goal is to retain sweetness without relying on processed sugars. Daniel Kraus / Unsplash

3. Protein Cold Foam Could Be Next

In an effort to add nutritional value, Starbucks has tested a protein-infused cold foam. The foam could offer a boost for customers seeking more filling, nutrient-dense drinks. It’s part of a broader strategy to accommodate those on high-protein diets or using weight-loss medications. If successful, it could appear on menus nationwide. Matthias Oberholzer / Unsplash

4. Matcha Is Already Getting a Makeover

Earlier this year, Starbucks removed sweeteners from its matcha powder. The shift aligns with its larger focus on sugar reduction. This updated matcha is now used in drinks that appeal to calorie-conscious customers. It was launched in January—before the current administration took office. Payoon Gerinto / Unsplash

5. Shelf-Stable Drinks Got a Low-Cal Refresh

In addition to in-store offerings, Starbucks has launched lower-calorie ready-to-drink Frappuccinos. It also debuted a line of sugar-free canned energy drinks. These are positioned for health-minded shoppers looking for portable options. The company says these moves are about expanding its reach beyond the café. Zoshua Colah / Unsplash

6. Plant-Based and Allergen-Friendly Foods Are Coming

Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free items are in the pipeline. Starbucks says it wants to offer more inclusive options for people with dietary restrictions or preferences. All new food and beverage items will begin with small-scale tests in five U.S. stores. Products that prove popular and operationally feasible will roll out more broadly. Randy Fath / Unsplash

7. New Items Begin with Small Tests

Before anything hits the national menu, it goes through a trial phase. Starbucks pilots new drinks and foods at five stores to collect barista and customer feedback. The process gauges not only flavor but also how difficult the items are to make. Only successful test items move to wider releases. Athar Khan / Unsplash

8. Customization Remains a Core Strategy

Despite the healthier shift, Starbucks doesn’t want to lose its core identity. “We are the industry leader in customization,” Pellicano said, according to The Seattle Times, noting that customers should still find ways to tailor drinks to their preferences. The company’s aim is to offer healthier choices without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Asael Peña / Unsplash

9. The Changes Are Part of a Bigger Turnaround Plan

The menu overhaul is one part of a broader strategy under CEO Brian Niccol. Starbucks just reported its sixth consecutive quarter of declining same-store sales and a sharper-than-expected profit drop. The company hopes new offerings will drive foot traffic and boost revenue. So far, results have been slow, but leadership remains optimistic. Şahin Sezer Dinçer / Unsplash

The Health Push Predates the MAHA Era

Although U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently praised Starbucks for pledging to “further MAHA” its menu, the company says this initiative began earlier. Starbucks removed high-fructose corn syrup and artificial dyes from its products years ago. The latest changes simply build on a longer-term shift toward cleaner ingredients. The company hopes this effort will resonate with today’s wellness-driven consumers. Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images