FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorbeverageSTARBUCKS· 1 K-CUP POD AND 1 SWEETENED DAIRY PACKET

Starbucks Pike Place Roast Ground Coffee

STARBUCKS Pike Place Roast Ground Coffee scores 30/100 (Poor) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** from the sweetened dairy packet.

  • This STARBUCKS product scores 30/100, rated as Poor.
  • It contains 175g of added sugar per 100g, a significant penalty.
  • The product is a NOVA class 2, indicating it's a processed culinary ingredient.
  • It provides 144% DV of calcium and 139% DV of Vitamin A per 100g.
  • Compared to plain coffee, this version adds substantial calories and sugar.
  • Scores -12 points above the beverage category average (42/100 across 134 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
50g
100% of Daily Value
Added sugar
175g
350% of Daily Value
Sodium
875mg
38% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (50g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+6
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
What holds it back
Added sugar (175g)-25
Saturated fat (25g)-15
Sodium (875mg)-4

Why it scores 30

The STARBUCKS Pike Place Roast Ground Coffee receives a FoodScore of 30 out of 100, categorizing it as Poor. This score is significantly impacted by the high amount of added sugar, contributing a substantial -25 penalty. Per 100g, this product contains 175g of added sugar, primarily from the 'SUGAR' listed in the sweetened dairy packet. Additionally, the product incurs a -15 penalty for its 25g of saturated fat per 100g, and a -4 penalty for 875mg of sodium. On the positive side, it receives a +10 bonus for its 50g of protein per 100g and a +6 bonus for its micronutrient profile, specifically providing 144% DV for calcium, 139% DV for Vitamin A, and 33% DV for Vitamin C. The product's classification as NOVA class 2 (processed culinary ingredients) also contributes a +8 bonus for being minimally processed. While plain coffee offers negligible calories and no added sugar, this STARBUCKS product, when prepared with the sweetened dairy packet, introduces considerable amounts of sugar and fat.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in starbucks pike place roast ground coffee actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Calcium and Vitamin A

This STARBUCKS product, particularly from the sweetened dairy packet, contributes a notable amount of calcium and Vitamin A. Per 100g, it provides 144% of the Daily Value for calcium and 139% for Vitamin A. Calcium is essential for bone health and muscle function, while Vitamin A supports vision and immune function. For individuals who consume dairy, this can contribute to meeting daily micronutrient needs, though it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile.

Protein Contribution

With 50g of protein per 100g, this product offers a significant protein boost. Protein is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and satiety. While typically consumed in smaller serving sizes, the protein content can contribute to daily intake, especially for those looking to increase their protein consumption. However, this benefit should be weighed against the product's high added sugar and saturated fat content.

Minimally Processed Coffee Component

The ground coffee component of this product is a NOVA class 2 ingredient, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient. This classification indicates that the coffee itself has undergone minimal processing, primarily grinding. While the overall product includes a sweetened dairy packet, the coffee base maintains a relatively low level of processing compared to ultra-processed foods, offering the inherent benefits of coffee without extensive chemical modification.

How to eat it

This STARBUCKS K-Cup product is typically consumed as a morning or afternoon beverage. The serving size includes one K-Cup pod and one sweetened dairy packet, designed for a single cup of coffee. Consumers often prepare it for convenience, adding the entire packet for a sweetened and creamy coffee experience.

To reduce added sugar, consider using only a portion of the sweetened dairy packet or omitting it entirely and adding unsweetened milk or cream.
Pairing this coffee with a fiber-rich breakfast like oatmeal or whole-grain toast can help balance the overall meal's nutritional impact.
Be mindful of portion sizes; consuming multiple servings with the sweetened packet can quickly accumulate added sugars and saturated fat.
For a less processed option, consider brewing the coffee pod black and adding your own unsweetened dairy or plant-based milk.
Things to keep in mind

The primary caution for this product relates to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat, primarily from the sweetened dairy packet ingredients like 'SUGAR' and 'DRIED CREAM'. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should be particularly mindful of the 175g of added sugar per 100g. The high saturated fat content (25g per 100g) may also be a concern for those monitoring their cardiovascular health. The product contains milk, which is a common allergen. While the coffee itself contains caffeine, the amount per serving is typical for coffee and generally safe for most adults, but children and sensitive individuals should limit intake.

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Reader questions
Is STARBUCKS Pike Place Roast Ground Coffee healthy?
This STARBUCKS product scores 30/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it offers some protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, its high content of added sugar (175g per 100g) and saturated fat (25g per 100g) significantly detracts from its overall nutritional quality. It is best consumed in moderation or with modifications.
How does STARBUCKS Pike Place Roast Ground Coffee compare to plain coffee?
Compared to plain, black coffee, this STARBUCKS product with the sweetened dairy packet adds substantial calories, 175g of added sugar, and 25g of saturated fat per 100g. Plain coffee, like a standard Folgers brew, contains virtually no calories, sugar, or fat, making it a more nutritionally neutral beverage.
What is 'NATURAL FLAVORS' in the sweetened dairy packet?
'NATURAL FLAVORS' is a broad term for flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or dairy. While they contribute to the product's taste, they do not add significant nutritional value. Their inclusion here is primarily for palatability and consistency.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is one K-Cup pod and one sweetened dairy packet. Given the high added sugar and saturated fat content, limiting consumption to one serving per day or less is advisable. Consider using only part of the sweetened packet to reduce sugar intake.
Can I drink this coffee if I am lactose intolerant?
No, the sweetened dairy packet contains 'NONFAT DRY MILK' and 'DRIED CREAM,' which are dairy ingredients. Therefore, this STARBUCKS product is not suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy. For a dairy-free option, brew the coffee pod black and add a plant-based milk.

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