The Starbucks Coffee STARBUCKS, SPECIALTY COFFEE BEVERAGE, PUMPKIN SPICE, CAFFE LATTE scores 24/100 (Avoid) due to its significant **added sugar** content and **processed nature**.
This Starbucks Coffee Company beverage scores 24/100, indicating it is not a primary source of beneficial nutrients.
The product contains 6.13g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low FoodScore.
As a NOVA class 3 processed beverage, it offers less nutritional value compared to plain water or unsweetened coffee.
It provides 1.67g of protein and 1.46g of total fat per 100g, with no fiber.
Consider this beverage as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your daily intake.
Scores -8 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
1.67g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
6.13g
12% of Daily Value
Sodium
47.92mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (6.1g)-6
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 24
The Starbucks Coffee STARBUCKS, SPECIALTY COFFEE BEVERAGE, PUMPKIN SPICE, CAFFE LATTE receives a FoodScore of 24 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its nutritional profile, which includes 6.13g of added sugar per 100g, resulting in a -6 penalty. The product's classification as NOVA class 3 (processed) incurs an additional -5 penalty, reflecting its formulation with multiple ingredients beyond whole foods. Furthermore, the beverage is penalized -15 for empty calories, indicating a high caloric density relative to its micronutrient contribution. While it contains some protein (1.67g per 100g) and fat (1.46g per 100g), it lacks fiber and provides minimal amounts of essential micronutrients like potassium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins. The ingredient list, featuring sugar, nonfat dry milk, and dried cream, points to a formulation focused on flavor and convenience rather than comprehensive nutritional density. Compared to a reference baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, this Starbucks Coffee Company product offers significantly more calories and sugar without a proportional increase in beneficial nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in starbucks coffee starbucks, specialty coffee beverage, pumpkin spice, caffe latte actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenient Beverage Option
This Starbucks Coffee Company product offers a convenient and quick option for a flavored coffee beverage. For individuals seeking a specific taste profile without the need for preparation from scratch, it provides a ready-to-consume solution. While not a nutrient-dense choice, its ease of use can fit into busy schedules as an occasional indulgence, offering a moment of enjoyment without extensive effort.
Source of Dairy Components
The sweetened dairy packet in this product contains nonfat dry milk and dried cream, contributing some dairy components. While not a significant source of calcium (5% DV per 100g), it does offer a small amount of this mineral and other nutrients naturally present in milk. For those who enjoy dairy in their coffee, this product incorporates those elements into its flavor profile.
Provides a Caffeine Boost
As a caffe latte, this beverage delivers caffeine from its ground coffee component. Caffeine is known for its stimulant effects, which can help increase alertness and reduce perceived fatigue. For individuals looking for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon energy boost, this product serves that functional purpose, similar to other coffee beverages.
The Starbucks Coffee STARBUCKS, SPECIALTY COFFEE BEVERAGE, PUMPKIN SPICE, CAFFE LATTE scores 24/100 (Avoid) due to its significant added sugar content and processed nature.
How to eat it
This Starbucks Coffee Pumpkin Spice Caffe Latte is typically consumed as a single-serving beverage, often as part of a breakfast or afternoon routine. It's designed for convenience, requiring minimal preparation. Due to its added sugar content, it is best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.
To reduce overall sugar intake, consider this beverage as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular daily drink.
Pairing this latte with a fiber-rich snack like an apple or a handful of nuts can help balance the meal and promote satiety.
If you enjoy the flavor, consider making your own pumpkin spice latte at home using unsweetened coffee, milk, and a smaller amount of added sweetener to control sugar levels.
For a similar flavor profile with less sugar, explore unsweetened coffee options and add a dash of pumpkin pie spice yourself.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for this product is its added sugar content, which is 6.13g per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce overall caloric intake, should consume this product in moderation. The ingredient list includes nonfat dry milk and dried cream, indicating that this product contains dairy and is not suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. While the caffeine content is not declared, as a coffee beverage, it will contain caffeine, which some individuals may need to limit due to sensitivity or medical conditions. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives explicitly listed, but the presence of "natural flavor" means the specific components are not disclosed.
This Starbucks Coffee Company beverage scores 24/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. It contains 6.13g of added sugar per 100g and is classified as a NOVA class 3 processed food. While it offers some protein and dairy components, it is not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals, making it less ideal for regular consumption if health is the primary concern.
How does Starbucks Coffee Company Pumpkin Spice Caffe Latte compare to other coffee beverages?
Compared to an unsweetened black coffee, this Starbucks Coffee Company latte has significantly more calories, added sugar, and fat due to the sweetened dairy packet. When compared to a similar flavored latte from a brand like Dunkin' Donuts, the nutritional profile would likely be similar, often featuring added sugars and dairy. For a healthier alternative, consider plain coffee with a splash of milk and a minimal amount of sweetener.
What is 'natural flavor' in the ingredient list?
Natural flavor is a broad term used to describe flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or dairy. While it originates from natural ingredients, the specific components and processing methods are not disclosed on the label. Its purpose is to enhance the product's taste profile, in this case, contributing to the pumpkin spice flavor.
What is a reasonable portion size for this latte?
The serving size is one K-CUP POD and one sweetened dairy packet. Given its added sugar content, consuming one serving occasionally is a reasonable approach. Regular or multiple daily servings would contribute significantly to your daily sugar intake, which may exceed recommended limits.
Can I drink this if I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake?
If you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, this product should be consumed in moderation. With 6.13g of added sugar per 100g, it contributes to your daily sugar load. Consider opting for unsweetened coffee or tea, or preparing your own flavored beverages where you can control the amount of added sweeteners.