Starbucks to Post Calorie Counts on Menus Nationwide

Starbucks Frappuccino blended beverages can easily top 500 calories. Creative Commons photo.

Starbucks today announced plans to include calorie count information on menu boards and pastry cases in all its company-operated stores in the United States beginning June 25. The company joins other large fast food chains, including as McDonald’s and Panera Bread Co., in posting calories ahead of federal regulations that will make it a requirement. (Here is Starbucks’ online calorie calculator.)

“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 and understand all the ways that they can customize their Starbucks beverages to be within their desired calorie range,” Mary Wagner, Starbucks vice president of global research and development, said in a company announcement. “Starbucks believes that wellness is the journey to a happy, healthy life through daily choices, whether it’s a favorite beverage or a wholesome meal option.”

It is no secret that Starbucks has more than its share of high-calorie offerings, including beverages in the Frappuccino blended beverage line, which can easily top 500 calories. The company is also planning to roll out its new pastry line, since purchasing La Boulange last year. To be fair, Starbucks does also offer plenty of low-calorie, sometimes even healthy, food and drink options on its standard menu, including the 16-ounce black coffee (5 calories).