Key Highlights
- Some Starbucks customers have reported experiencing stomach and bowel problems after trying the new olive oil infused drinks.
- The possible laxative effect of oil paired with the stimulant effect of coffee may be causing the reported issues.
Starbucks recently launched a new line of olive oil infused drinks called Oleato, which debuted in select markets on February 21. However, not all customers are enjoying the new offering. Several people have taken to social media to share their experiences with the drinks. Some have reported stomach and bowel problems after consuming them.
Reddit Post Claims Starbucks’ New Oleato Drinks Caused Stomach Problems
A Starbucks barista, who goes by the username u/MoodyStarGirl on Reddit, posted on the r/starbucks subreddit about their coworkers’ experience with the Oleato drinks. They claimed that half of their team tried the drinks, and a few of them ended up needing to use the restroom urgently. The post said that their store manager did not want them to share this information with customers.
Many other Reddit users also shared their experiences with the drinks in the post’s comments section. Some mentioned feeling sick or losing their appetite after trying the drinks. Others complained about the strong taste of olive oil, especially in the latte. Some customers even described the Oleato drinks as a “legit laxative.”
Some Customers Report Negative Experiences With Starbucks’ Oleato Drinks
According to Frances Largeman-Roth, a registered dietitian nutritionist, the possible laxative effect of oil, combined with the stimulant effect of coffee on the digestive system, maybe the cause of these issues. Largeman-Roth also suggested that drinking the drinks on an empty stomach may intensify the effects.
While some customers have enjoyed the new line of coffee drinks, others have had negative experiences. Starbucks has not yet responded to the reports.
