Starbucks’ vanilla iced coffee is a luxurious and sweet summery treat, yet many are unaware of its caloric content and therefore, just how much of a treat it can really be. Knowing the nutritional information for common beverages, such as Starbucks’ iced coffees, can be a helpful tool for those trying to control their caloric intake.
A Grande (16-ounce) Starbucks’ Vanilla Iced Coffee contains 160 calories and no fat when prepared with 2% milk and a classic syrup, according to Starbucks. It also contains 220 milligrams of sodium, two grams of dietary fiber, four grams of protein and 38 grams of sugar. By comparison, a Grande Iced Vanilla Latte prepared with 2% milk and a classic syrup registers 180 calories, no fat and 250 milligrams of sodium. Consequently, the Vanilla Iced Coffee has less fat, sodium and energy.
Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Trisha Schanze expresses that Starbucks’ iced coffee is a great source of caffeine and it being low in sugar and calories is a safe bet for those watching their calorie intake. “If you reduce the amount of syrup, the calories also decrease further”, she says.
Additionally, Schanze highlights the importance of mindful eating. “Though it’s a great source of caffeine but if consumed in excess and regularly, it can create an unhealthy cafeine dependency. Therefore it is important to have the mindfulness to assess how much sugar and caffeine we are consuming and to be aware of the overall nutritional breakdown of what we are ingesting.”
To make a healthier version for those watching their calorie intake, Schanze suggests reducing the classic syrup and replacing it with honey or blue agave, using an alternative milk such as almond or soy, and, most importantly, to avoid adding flavored creams.
It is important to remember that moderation is key when it comes to consuming items such as Starbucks’ iced coffee and to make sure to not overconsume either nutrient dense or calorie dense items. While occasional indulgences are fine, doing so regularly can lead to the depletion of the body’s energy reserves.
Iced Skinny Mocha
Starbucks’ Iced Skinny Mocha contains 125 calories per serving and no fat. It also comes with 130 milligrams of sodium, two grams of dietary fiber, two grams of protein and 27 grams of sugar. The Iced Skinny Mocha contains fewer calories than the Iced Vanilla Coffee, but it also has less sodium and fiber.
Iced Americano
According to Starbucks, an Iced Americano is a great way to consume coffee without adding too many extra calories. It contains only 25 calories – the same amount as a teaspoon of sugar – and no fat. It also contains zero milligrams of sodium, one gram of dietary fiber, one gram of protein, and two grams of sugar.
Caramel Iced Coffee
Starbucks’ Caramel Iced Coffee does contain more energy than the Iced Vanilla Coffee, with 230 calories per serving when prepared with 2% milk and a classic syrup. Moreover, it contains 290 milligrams of sodium, one gram of dietary fiber, three grams of protein and 44 grams of sugar.
Iced Mocha
Starbucks’ classic Iced Mocha contains 220 calories per serving when prepared with 2% milk and a classic syrup. It also contains 35 milligrams of sodium, two grams of dietary fiber, five grams of protein and 36 grams of sugar. Although the Iced Mocha does contain more calories than the Iced Vanilla Coffee, it also has more protein and dietary fiber.
