FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorbeverageSTARBUCKS VIA· 1 PACKET

STARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE

STARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE scores 41/100 (Poor) due to its significant amount of added sugar, which is the primary factor lowering its nutritional value.

  • This STARBUCKS VIA product has a FoodScore of 41/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
  • A single serving contains 42.9g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • It provides notable amounts of calcium (37% DV) and Vitamin A (36% DV) per 100g.
  • Compared to plain water or unsweetened beverages, this latte mix offers minimal nutritional benefits.
  • Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a regular beverage choice.
  • Scores +9 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
12.9g
26% of Daily Value
Added sugar
42.9g
86% of Daily Value
Sodium
210mg
9% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (12.9g)+8
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Vitamin A)+6
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
What holds it back
Added sugar (42.9g)-25
Saturated fat (6.5g)-6

Why it scores 41

The STARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE receives a FoodScore of 41 out of 100, primarily driven by its high added sugar content. With 42.9g of added sugar per 100g, this ingredient incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points in the scoring system. The presence of DAIRY POWDER and SUGAR as the first two ingredients indicates a formulation high in both dairy solids and sweeteners. Additionally, the product contains 6.45g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a -6 point penalty. On the positive side, it gains +8 points for its protein content of 12.9g per 100g and another +6 points for its micronutrient contributions, specifically calcium (37% DV), iron (32% DV), and Vitamin A (36% DV). Its classification as NOVA class 2 (processed culinary ingredients) also contributes a +8 bonus. However, these bonuses are largely offset by the penalties from added sugar and saturated fat, resulting in a 'Poor' overall score when compared to a baseline of plain water or unsweetened beverages.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in starbucks via coffee beverage, vanilla lattee actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Essential Micronutrients

This STARBUCKS VIA product provides a notable amount of certain micronutrients. Per 100g, it contributes 37% of the Daily Value for calcium and 36% for Vitamin A, both important for bone health and vision, respectively. It also offers 32% of the Daily Value for iron, a mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the body. These contributions can help supplement daily intake of these specific nutrients.

Contains Protein

With 12.9g of protein per 100g, this beverage mix offers a modest amount of this macronutrient. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and for satiety. While not a primary protein source, it can contribute to your daily protein goals, especially when consumed as part of a balanced diet. The protein likely comes from the DAIRY POWDER listed in the ingredients.

Convenient Beverage Option

As an instant coffee beverage, STARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE offers convenience for on-the-go consumption. It requires minimal preparation, making it a quick option for those seeking a flavored coffee drink without access to a coffee shop. This can be useful in situations where time or resources are limited, providing a familiar taste experience.

How to eat it

STARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE is typically consumed as a hot or cold beverage, mixed with water or milk. A single packet is designed for one serving, offering a quick coffee shop-style drink at home or on the go. The primary pitfall is the high added sugar content.

To reduce the overall sugar intake, consider using half a packet and supplementing with unsweetened coffee or milk.
Pair this beverage with a protein-rich snack like nuts or Greek yogurt to help balance blood sugar response.
Use unsweetened milk (dairy or plant-based) instead of water to add more protein and calcium without extra sugar.
Treat this as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily beverage to manage added sugar consumption.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should be mindful of the 42.9g of added sugar per 100g in this product. The primary ingredient, DAIRY POWDER, means this product contains milk and is not suitable for individuals with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance. While the caffeine content is not listed, as a coffee product, it contains caffeine, which should be considered by pregnant individuals, children, or those sensitive to stimulants. There are no artificial colors or preservatives listed, but natural flavors can be a broad category.

Swap suggestions
Very good
Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER
Score82
Very good
LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW
Score82
Very good
WILD PLANET NO SALT ADDED WILD SARDINES IN WATER
Score82
Very good
GARDEN OF EATIN' GARDEN OF EATIN, TUSCOLA COUNTRY BLUE CORN, TORTILLA CHIPS, SEA SALT, SEA SALT
Score80
Very good
INCA'S GOLD YELLOW MACA ORGANIC GELATINIZED POWDER, YELLOW MACA
Score80
Very good
VEGA DRINK MIX, MINT LEMONADE
Score79
Reader questions
Is STARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE healthy?
With a FoodScore of 41/100 (Poor), this product is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its high added sugar content is the main factor contributing to its low score, outweighing its modest contributions of protein and certain micronutrients. It should be consumed in moderation.
How does STARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE compare to a regular brewed coffee?
Compared to plain brewed coffee, which typically has 0 calories and 0g of added sugar, STARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE contains 419.35 calories and 42.9g of added sugar per 100g. It offers more micronutrients like calcium and Vitamin A, but at the cost of significantly higher sugar and calories. For instance, a plain coffee from a brand like Folgers or Maxwell House would be a much lower-sugar option.
What is 'DAIRY POWDER' in the ingredient list?
DAIRY POWDER refers to dehydrated milk solids. It is a common ingredient in instant beverage mixes, providing a creamy texture and contributing to the protein and calcium content. It is important for those with dairy allergies to note its presence.
How much STARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE can I drink daily?
Given its high added sugar content (42.9g per 100g), it is advisable to limit daily intake. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories. Consuming one packet contributes a significant amount towards this limit, so it's best enjoyed occasionally rather than daily.
Can I make this product less sweet?
Yes, you can make it less sweet by using only half a packet of the mix and adding more unsweetened coffee or milk. This will reduce the amount of added sugar per serving while still providing some of the vanilla latte flavor. You can also dilute it with more water or unsweetened milk.

Explore more

CategoryAll beverages BrandAll Starbucks (Bottled) SKUs Competitor · 65/100CAPE COD SELECT, CRANBERRIES PLUS Competitor · 65/100CAPE COD SELECT, PREMIUM CRANBERRIES PLUS, PINEAPPLE, MANGO, BANANA, PINEAPPLE, MANGO, BANANA Head-to-headSTARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE vs. CAPE COD SELECT, CRANBERRIES PLUS Head-to-headSTARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE vs. CAPE COD SELECT, PREMIUM CRANBERRIES PLUS, PINEAPPLE, MANGO, BANANA, PINEAPPLE, MANGO, BANANA Head-to-headSTARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE vs. MISSION PRIDE SLICED WATER CHESTNUTS Head-to-headSTARBUCKS VIA COFFEE BEVERAGE, VANILLA LATTEE vs. ORGAIN CHOCOLATE FLAVOR WITH TART CHERRY & TURMERIC PROTEIN POWDER, CHOCOLATE

Data & references