Nowadays, Starbucks is one of the best-known coffee brands worldwide, providing customers with an array of coffee drinks from coffees to espressos, lattés and many more. But what numerous people don’t realize is that Starbucks gives away used coffee grounds to those who request it. Many people are unaware of this because of Starbucks’ relative discretion in the matter.
Let’s start by discussing what exactly comprises a ‘used coffee ground’. Used coffee grounds come from the beans that have been used to brew respective coffees at Starbucks. When this occurs, the used coffee ground tends to be bitter as the caffeine has been extracted. Grinding any further will not add any flavor to the coffee. Starbucks also maintains strict standards for all the coffee grounds they provide, regardless of new or used.
Most baristas will agree that Starbucks’ used coffee grounds are of high quality. According to Paul Stross, a sous chef at a 5-star restaurant, “The coffee grounds from Starbucks represent a high grade and quality coffee, so much so that a should be taken into account when being used for various recipes and dishes.” He also adds that not all coffee grounds can be used for culinary and that quality coffee grounds should be used in order for recipes to turn out as expected.
Apart from Starbucks’ discretion, another possible reason why many are not aware of this is because the company does not explicitly post any information on this in their renowned coffee shops. Starbucks can offer used coffee grounds, but the availability varies from store to store. To get ahold of the coffee grounds, it is best to ask the barista directly.
Can I Receive Starbucks Coffee Grounds For Free?
In most cases, customers may receive a small amount of used coffee grounds for free. Starbucks provides customers with a cup or two of used coffee grounds if they request it from the barista. However, customers should be aware that if Starbucks sees the customer taking more than the free allowance, they may be denied the request in order to protect the company’s self-interests.
The amount of free allowance does not exceed two cups (assuming small cups are used) as more than that would probably take away from the company’s already low margins. Although Starbucks does not explicitly state this, it is important to note that these free used coffee grounds should be used for personal use, and not for any commercial purposes.
One should also note that those wishing to receive free Starbucks coffee grounds should always follow post-consumption instructions and tips. This includes using the coffee grounds within a two or three days of their use, and ensuring the grounds stay adequately refrigerated. This is because the grounds can quickly become moldy, so it is best to act swiftly.
As previously mentioned, there is an implicit limit to the amount of free allowance Starbucks provides, so customers should not be too hungry for more. Starbucks’ used coffee grounds are still valuable commodities, and customers should respect the business’ discretion.
How Can Starbucks Coffee Grounds Be Used?
These days, apart from drinking coffee, Starbucks’ used coffee grounds may have several other functions. The most common use for used coffee grounds range from gardening and composting to cooking, baking, beauty and even skincare. Starbucks coffee grounds usually have a better texture and taste than store-bought grounds, and can be made into various food items like coffee rubs, bars and cookies.
In addition, used coffee grounds can be added as natural fertilizers for plants, due to its nutritional value. The coffee grounds also make great compost, with its rich nutrient content attracting different types of microoganisms. Research has also shown that used coffee grounds can help many types of plants and vegetables to thrive in an undoubted manner.
Apart from aiding plants and vegetables, used Starbucks coffee grounds can be used in various beauty and skincare applications. Ground coffee coffee is packed with antioxidants, antifungal and antiviral properties, meaning it works as a great natural exfoliant for the skin. It can help reduce wrinkles, sagging skin, cellulite and other skin-related problems. Additionally, coffee masks and scrubs can help improve skin complexion and elasticity.
Where Can I Get Starbucks Coffee Grounds?
As previously mentioned, customers may receive a small amount of used coffee grounds for free upon request, but what if they need more? There are numerous outlets that sell Starbucks coffee grounds, including online retailers, second hand stores, and even retail stores. Customers who want to get Starbucks coffee grounds should remember to check the product’s label to ensure the grounds are of a high quality. Additionally, customers should also take the utmost precaution when purchasing the grounds together with any other items.
The same goes for online purchases. Although the grounds may be of much lower cost when purchased online, customers should check the delivery terms, costs, and packaging. As it is delicate and susceptible, it is important to also check if the delivery fee accounts for its fragility, as it may lead to wastage otherwise.
What Are The Alternatives To Starbucks Coffee Grounds?
For customers seeking an alternative to Starbucks coffee grounds, there are several companies that offer used coffee grounds as well. These include Tully’s Coffee, Dunkin’ Donuts and Seattle’s Best Coffee, to name a few.
These companies offer ground beans of a quality similar to Starbucks’, but with a much lower price. This makes them a great option for customers looking to by used coffee grounds on a budget. Furthermore, customers can use the same methods and strategies outlined earlier to acquire these coffee grounds. Free allowance may also be available, although it is best to double-check with the respective stores before making a purchase.
How To Utilize Starbucks Coffee Grounds?
Used Starbucks coffee grounds can be utilized in a myriad of ways. Before attempting to use the grounds, customers should remember a few points. Firstly, these grounds should be consumed within two to three days to avoid molding. The grounds should also be kept refrigerated to maintain the quality.
Secondly, customers should also check the ingredients list of the product carefully before making a purchase. Although Starbucks maintains strict standards, customers should also be aware if food allergies (e.g. gluten) may be involved.
Additionally, customers should also make sure they are using the grounds properly. For beauty and skincare, customers should also ensure they are using natural ingredients, and not any chemical-based products. As for baking and cooking, consumers should consult expert advice to ensure the food is edible and healthy.
Environmental Effect Of Starbucks Coffee Grounds
Although the uses for Starbucks coffee grounds are numerous, one cannot ignore its effect on the environment. On one hand, it can be seen as an environmentally responsible choice, in that it helps to reduce the amount of waste produced while reusing the used product. On the other hand, by offering used coffee grounds, Starbucks can also be seen as promoting certain unsustainable practices. By providing free used coffee grounds to those who request it for free, it may encourage more customers to visit the store and use more of the product.
In addition, the coffee grounds produce a significant amount of carbon dioxide emissions during production and shipping, hence, having an effect on air pollution. Additionally, coffee grounds take a long time to decompose, meaning the more Starbucks offloads the grounds, the more strain is placed on landfills. All of which can contribute to global warming.
The Pros and Cons of Using Starbucks Coffee Grounds
Considering the aforementioned points, it can be seen that using Starbucks coffee grounds has a number of benefits and detriments. Firstly, using Starbucks’ used coffee grounds helps to reduce waste, while at the same time providing a quality product. Therefore, customers can enjoy the quality of the coffee while still doing something responsible.
On the other hand, however, customers should also note that Starbucks’ used coffee grounds may produce negative effects on the environment. In addition, it may also lead to customers wasting multiple cups of coffee and seeking more free batches of the used coffee grounds. Therefore, customers should only take as much as they need and check the label, ingredients, and post-consumption instructions carefully before making a purchase.
