As dining trends come and go, protein is a hot topic for today’s consumers, with recent research indicating that over 71 per cent of Canadians have expressed they want to eat more of it, and that they consider its nutritional value their highest priority – a 112 per cent increase since 2015. In the U.S., 44 per cent of respondents said they want to increase their intake, up from 34 per cent in the same period in 2024.
Starbucks will start serving infused cold foam and lattés Sept. 29 to capitalize on the growing consumer demand for menu options. The cold foam will serve up to 26 grams of protein per 16-ounce serving, while the lattés, made with milk combined with protein powder, will provide up to 36 grams. Coming soon, consumers will be able to customize drinks with protein-boosted two per cent milk in lattés, Iced Shaken Espressos, and Coconut Milk Refreshers.
Tim Hortons has also recently launched a lineup of beverages, including hot Protein Lattés (with 20 grams) and Iced Protein Lattés with 17 grams (per medium beverage). Guests can also adjust their favourite drinks with a high-protein dairy beverage selection for hot and iced coffees, teas, cold brews and iced cappuccinos.
Second Cup has two smoothies on the menu: the Chocolate Banana Power with Oat Beverage (17 grams of protein) and the newly added Green Mango Boost (11 grams of protein). They also offer a choice of milk types, some with a higher protein content, like oat and soy.
As coffee chains continue to add protein options to meet consumer demand, restaurants will likely follow suit. Recently, Subway added power bowls to the menu, with five options including Piri Piri Chicken, Southwest Steak and Avocado, and three build-your-own varieties. Each of the Power Bowls has at least 26 grams of protein, and is served with a blend of rice, Fiesta Beans and Corn Salad, lettuce, spinach, fresh salsa, and cucumber.
As protein continues to get attention from health-conscious consumers, more restaurants are likely to add dishes to compete, attract interested customers, and drive traffic.
