As coffee culture evolves, two major players, Starbucks and Dunkin’, are making headlines with their latest offerings that incorporate protein into coffee drinks. These new menu items are particularly attracting the attention of middle school girls, sparking conversations about their unique effects.
The Starbucks located near Bexley Middle School sees a vibrant collection of drinks on its online order counter every day around 3:30 p.m., just before a rush of enthusiastic tweens arrives.
Previously, the counter was filled with drinks like the caramel ribbon crunch Frappuccino, pink drink, iced matcha, and mocha cookie crumble Frappuccino. However, the spotlight has shifted to the newly introduced protein drinks.
“Initially, the thought of protein in a coffee drink was off-putting to me,” shared eighth-grader Madison Baumgartner. “But once I learned that the coffee content was lower than usual, I was thrilled to give them a try.”
Seventh-grader Kennedy Walden expressed similar excitement: “I go to Starbucks every day after school with my friends, but coffee isn’t my thing. When I found out the new protein drinks hardly tasted like coffee, I thought, ‘This is great!’”
The iced protein matcha has become a favorite among Starbucks patrons. “I enjoy coffee, so I prefer the iced vanilla protein latte,” said eighth-grader Elizabeth Rose. “It’s nearly eight dollars after the tip, but I use my dad’s card, so it feels like a treat.”
For those fortunate enough to have supportive parents who both buy and drive them, the Dunkin’ on East Broad Street offers competitive protein drinks as well.
“My top choice from Dunkin’ is Megan’s mango protein refresher,” noted sixth-grader Charlotte Nilsson. “Honestly, I don’t love the taste, but I’m a big fan of Megan Thee Stallion.”
Megan Thee Stallion, a renowned rap artist, has collaborated with Dunkin’ for their new protein line, which adds an interesting cultural layer to these beverages.
Prior to this partnership, Dunkin’ had teamed up with influencers like Charli D’Amelio, Ice Spice, and Sabrina Carpenter.
Interestingly, musician Clairo’s management attempted to negotiate a brand deal with Dunkin’ as well, but Clairo did not qualify due to specific requirements related to her performance style.
Currently, Starbucks has yet to introduce any celebrity-branded drinks. Interestingly, Clairo’s management also sought a partnership with Starbucks but faced similar requirements that she did not meet.
While many Bexley Middle School girls have embraced these protein drinks, several admitted they were unaware of what protein actually is before trying them.
“I’ve started noticing some changes in my body,” Baumgartner remarked. “I think I’ve grown several inches … like 12 or 24 inches.”
Rose has also observed some changes. “I’m on the softball team, and we just started group lifting. I’ve moved from a small to a large T-shirt size within a week. I used to be the weakest player, but now I can bench-press my friend Kennedy.”
In contrast, Nilsson has reported more drastic changes, hinting that the protein drinks might affect younger adolescents differently. “I really regret drinking so many of those protein drinks,” Nilsson commented. “Like Mackenzie, I’m taller, my voice has changed, and I’m sweating more with oilier skin.”
Some of their peers, influenced by the changes, have even turned away from coffee altogether in favor of vaping.
Key Takeaways
- Starbucks and Dunkin’ have introduced coffee drinks enriched with protein.
- Many middle school girls are excited about these new offerings, perceiving them as trendy.
- Popularity often comes from celebrity partnerships, such as Dunkin’s collaboration with Megan Thee Stallion.
- While some girls report noticeable physical changes, many were initially unaware of protein’s role.
- Changes may vary among different age groups, with younger girls experiencing more pronounced effects.
- Peer influence is leading some to abandon coffee for alternatives like vaping.
FAQ
What are the new protein coffee drinks available at Starbucks and Dunkin’?
The new offerings include iced protein matcha and various flavored protein lattes at Starbucks, while Dunkin’ features options like Megan’s mango protein refresher.
How have middle school girls responded to these new drinks?
Many schoolgirls are enthusiastic about the drinks, often excited to try the new flavors that are perceived as healthier and trendy.
Are there any celebrity influences involved with these products?
Yes, Dunkin’ has collaborated with celebrities like Megan Thee Stallion for their protein drinks, which enhances their appeal among younger customers.
Have the girls reported any physical changes after consuming these drinks?
Some girls have noticed physical changes, such as growth spurts and increased strength, but responses vary widely.
The popularization of protein drinks by these coffee giants highlights a new trend that resonates with younger generations, full of excitement and curiosity.
