When Starbucks launched the Nitro Cold Brew at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery back 2016, they served it in an intriguing new cup. You've likely seen it floating around the Internet lately, but if not, it basically looks like an adult sippy cup, and lets Starbs' fans drink iced beverages without a straw. The wide-mouth lid is back in circulation thanks to Starbucks' newest topping, Cold Foam, and this time around, you can find it at your local Starbucks.
While it's been touted as an environmental fix, here's the real deal: The wider opening is actually meant to enhance the drink's taste, Starbucks says. According to a spokesperson, "The taste and texture of Cold Foam is essential to the enjoyment of the beverage; simply put, drinking Cold Foam through a straw means the customer will miss out on this delicious texture."
But, since the drink is served without a straw (unless you pick one up yourself), it does have the added benefit of helping cut down on waste. And though the lid is generally only served on the Nitro Cold Brew and drinks with Cold Foam, baristas have said customers can request the strawless lid on any drink.
As for Starbucks' environmental efforts, the company is developing a plant-based liner for its paper cups, and is working on making it easier for customers to recycle in stores. Elsewhere, other major brands are making moves toward more sustainable practices too. McDonald's has started phasing out straws in the U.K., though in a vote yesterday, shareholders voted against doing the same in the U.S. McDonald's has pledged to make all packaging come from renewable, recycled, or certified sources by 2025.
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