Starbucks pumpkin spice latte

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Common questions

Is Starbucks pumpkin spice latte healthy?

Starbucks pumpkin spice latte scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This product contains brewed coffee, which is a natural source of antioxidants, but it also includes added sugar and maltodextrin, both of which are highly processed and can contribute to health issues when consumed in excess.

How processed is Starbucks pumpkin spice latte?

Starbucks pumpkin spice latte is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Starbucks pumpkin spice latte's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Brewed Starbucks Coffee, Cream, Ascorbic Acid count in its favor; Sugar, Maltodextrin, Natural Flavour are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Starbucks pumpkin spice latte

Starbucks
60 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 3
Owned by Starbucks
Category Coffee
Summary

This product contains brewed coffee, which is a natural source of antioxidants, but it also includes added sugar and maltodextrin, both of which are highly processed and can contribute to health issues when consumed in excess. The presence of 'natural flavors' adds to the processing level, reducing transparency about the ingredients. While it has some beneficial components like ascorbic acid, the overall ingredient list and processing level limit its healthiness.

Key ingredients 10

Brewed Starbucks Coffee
Good

Brewed coffee is a natural source of antioxidants and can provide a moderate caffeine boost. The coffee is brewed from water and coffee beans, which are minimally processed. It is generally considered a healthy beverage when consumed in moderation.

Risks

Excessive caffeine consumption can lead to insomnia, jitteriness, and increased heart rate.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against certain diseases.

See more about Brewed Starbucks Coffee →
Cream
Good

Traditional whole-fat dairy ingredient.

Risks

High in saturated fat, which may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and texture of beverages.

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Ascorbic Acid
Good

Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health. It is added to foods to prevent oxidation and spoilage. It is beneficial for overall health when consumed in adequate amounts.

Benefits

Supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant.

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Water
Neutral

Water is a neutral ingredient that serves as a solvent and carrier for other ingredients. It is essential for hydration and does not contribute any calories or nutrients. It is a basic component in many beverages.

Benefits

Essential for hydration and overall bodily functions.

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Condensed Skim Milk
Neutral

Condensed skim milk provides protein and calcium but is also a source of added sugars. It is processed to remove fat and water, concentrating the milk solids. It can be a part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

Risks

Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Benefits

Provides protein and calcium, which are important for bone health.

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Pectin
Neutral

Pectin is a natural fiber used as a gelling agent in foods. It is derived from fruits and is minimally processed. It can aid in digestion and is generally considered safe.

Benefits

May aid in digestion and improve gut health.

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Potassium Carbonate
Neutral

Potassium carbonate is used as a buffering agent to regulate acidity. It is a mineral salt that is generally recognized as safe when used in food. It does not provide significant nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Helps maintain pH balance in food products.

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Sugar
Bad

Sugar is a source of empty calories and can contribute to weight gain and metabolic issues when consumed in excess. It is highly processed and lacks nutritional value. Excessive sugar intake is linked to various health problems, including diabetes and heart disease.

Risks

High sugar consumption is associated with increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

Benefits

Provides quick energy but lacks essential nutrients.

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Maltodextrin
Bad

Maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a thickener or filler. It has a high glycemic index and can cause spikes in blood sugar levels. It is often used in processed foods and lacks nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause blood sugar spikes and is not suitable for individuals with insulin resistance or diabetes.

Benefits

Provides quick energy but lacks essential nutrients.

See more about Maltodextrin →
Natural Flavour
Bad

Natural flavors are often used to enhance taste but can be a catch-all term for various additives. They are highly processed and lack transparency regarding their composition. The use of natural flavors can be misleading as they may contain synthetic chemicals.

Risks

Lack of transparency and potential for containing synthetic chemicals.

Benefits

Enhances flavor but lacks nutritional benefits.

See more about Natural Flavour →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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