STARBUCKS VIA Instant Pike Place Roast scores 39/100 (Poor) primarily due to its **high added sugar content**, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.
FoodScore: 39/100 (Poor) for STARBUCKS VIA Instant Pike Place Roast.
Contains 43.75g of added sugar per 100g, a primary nutritional concern.
Provides 36% DV of calcium and 35% DV of vitamin A per 100g.
Classified as NOVA 2, indicating it contains processed culinary ingredients.
Best consumed in moderation, especially when compared to plain unsweetened coffee.
Scores -3 points above the beverage category average (42/100 across 134 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
12.5g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
43.75g
88% of Daily Value
Sodium
203.13mg
9% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (12.5g)+8
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (43.8g)-25
Saturated fat (6.3g)-6
Why it scores 39
STARBUCKS VIA Instant Pike Place Roast receives a FoodScore of 39/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely driven by its significant amount of added sugar, which is 43.75g per 100g, incurring a substantial penalty. The product also contains 6.25g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to a further penalty. On the positive side, it receives bonuses for its protein content, providing 12.5g per 100g. Additionally, the presence of certain micronutrients, specifically 36% DV of calcium and 35% DV of vitamin A per 100g, also contributes positively to the score. The inclusion of DAIRY POWDER and SUGAR as primary ingredients directly impacts these nutritional values. While it is classified as NOVA 2, meaning it contains processed culinary ingredients, this classification offers a small bonus. Compared to its reference baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, this STARBUCKS VIA product contains calories, sugar, and fat that are not present in the baseline, making it a less optimal choice for daily hydration without moderation.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in starbucks via instant pike place roast actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Calcium and Vitamin A
This product contributes to your daily intake of calcium and vitamin A. Per 100g, it provides 36% DV of calcium and 35% DV of vitamin A. Calcium is essential for bone health and muscle function, while vitamin A supports vision and immune function. While these nutrients are present, the overall nutritional profile should be considered.
Protein Contribution
STARBUCKS VIA Instant Pike Place Roast offers a notable amount of protein, with 12.5g per 100g. Protein is a crucial macronutrient for muscle repair and growth, as well as for satiety. This can be a consideration for individuals looking to increase their protein intake, though it's important to balance this with the product's other nutritional components.
Convenient Beverage Option
For those seeking a quick and easy coffee option, this product offers convenience. Its instant format makes it suitable for situations where traditional brewing is not feasible. While convenient, it's important to be mindful of the added sugar content and consider it as an occasional choice rather than a regular unsweetened coffee substitute.
STARBUCKS VIA Instant Pike Place Roast scores 39/100 (Poor) primarily due to its high added sugar content, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.
How to eat it
STARBUCKS VIA Instant Pike Place Roast is typically consumed as a hot or cold coffee beverage. It's designed for quick preparation by mixing with water. Consumers often use it for a caffeine boost or as a convenient coffee alternative when on the go, usually consuming one packet per serving.
To reduce added sugar intake, consider mixing one packet with a larger volume of water or combining it with unsweetened coffee.
Pair with a source of fiber, such as a piece of fruit or whole-grain toast, to help moderate blood sugar response.
Use this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple to limit added sugar and saturated fat in your diet.
For a lower-sugar alternative, consider plain instant coffee and sweeten it yourself with a small amount of sugar or a non-nutritive sweetener.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with dairy allergies should note that DAIRY POWDER is a declared ingredient in STARBUCKS VIA Instant Pike Place Roast. The product's high added sugar content (43.75g per 100g) is a significant consideration, particularly for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, or those aiming to reduce their overall sugar intake. While the caffeine content is not listed, it is a coffee product and should be consumed in moderation, especially by children or individuals sensitive to caffeine. The natural flavors listed are generally recognized as safe, but some individuals may have sensitivities to specific flavor compounds.
Is STARBUCKS VIA Instant Pike Place Roast healthy?
With a FoodScore of 39/100 (Poor), STARBUCKS VIA Instant Pike Place Roast is not considered a healthy everyday beverage. Its primary drawback is the high amount of added sugar, contributing significantly to its caloric load without providing substantial nutritional benefits beyond some calcium, vitamin A, and protein.
How does STARBUCKS VIA Instant Pike Place Roast compare to other instant coffees?
Compared to plain, unsweetened instant coffee brands like Folgers or Maxwell House, STARBUCKS VIA Instant Pike Place Roast contains significantly more added sugar and calories due to the inclusion of sugar and dairy powder. Unsweetened instant coffee typically has minimal calories and no added sugar, making it a more neutral base for customization.
What is 'microground Arabica coffee' in the ingredient list?
Microground Arabica coffee refers to finely ground coffee beans that are added to the instant coffee. This process is intended to enhance the flavor and aroma, providing a richer coffee experience closer to traditionally brewed coffee. It's a method to improve the sensory qualities of instant coffee.
What is a typical serving size for this product?
A typical serving size for STARBUCKS VIA Instant Pike Place Roast is one packet. However, the nutritional information provided is per 100g, which is approximately 2.3 packets. It's important to consider the nutritional values per packet when evaluating your intake, especially for added sugar and calories.
Can I make this product less sweet?
Yes, you can make this product less sweet by diluting it with more water than recommended, or by mixing it with a serving of plain, unsweetened instant coffee. This approach helps to reduce the sugar concentration per sip while still enjoying the coffee flavor. You could also use it as a base for a larger, unsweetened beverage.