Starbucks will make it easier for you to check the calories in that Caramel Ribbon Crunch or Mocha Cookie Crumble coffee when you walk in the door.
The popular coffee shop with a gazillion locations in metro Atlanta and across the country will begin posting calorie counts on its menu boards and food tags beginning June 25. The company already posts some calories online.
Starbucks is joining an increasing number of restaurant chains that are disclosing calories. The calorie listings will reflect standard recipes and won’t provide a total count if extras are added.
“Menu labeling is yet another step to extend our commitment to wellness, ensuring our customers and partners (employees) have the information they need to make informed decisions …,” Mary Wagner, senior vice president of global research and development, said in announcing the calorie boards.
Some of the chain’s tasty drinks come with more than a price. The Double Chocolaty Chip Frappuccino Blended Crème, for example, has 500 calories. A strawberry smoothie has 300. Among the bakery items, a cranberry orange scone and a zucchini walnut muffin have 490 calories each.
In 2007, Starbucks made 2 percent milk the standard for core beverages in North America. In 2009 it reduced the use of artificial flavors and sweeteners it uses. This year the chain is introducing “Salad Bowls” with under 450 calories.
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