



(The drink is called the Iced Coconut Milk Mocha Macchiato, by the way, if you have the lung capacity to order it.)





Now, the chain has announced that it’s diving even deeper into the massive $6.7 billion dairy-free market by finally providing almond milk in its U.S. stores this fall.





This will make Starbucks one of the largest sellers of almond milk in the entire country, contributing to the already enormous growth of the beverage, which has experienced a whopping 250 percent surge in popularity in the past five years.





This is yet another signal that plant-based alternatives are replacing conventional dairy, even among mainstream shoppers. Dairy alternatives aren’t just for diet restrictors anymore. In fact, they’re especially appealing to those who are “taste seekers” on the hunt for fun flavors and better-for-you options. Think: more options, not more restrictions.





For those with nut allergies, don’t fear; the chain is taking special precautions to eliminate any cross-contamination. With that caveat addressed, the 100,000 plant-based food supporters who asked Starbucks for the change can be unequivocally excited about the news.





Dairy milk prices have reportedly fallen by $1 billion in the past five years, in case you were interested.





To learn more about The Good Food Institute’s work to promote animal-free alternatives to conventional meat, dairy, and eggs, visit our website

First, Starbucks added its first-ever coconut-milk-based drink in July.