Starbucks has introduced a pork-flavored coffee drink in a surprising offering for its customers in China in celebration of the Lunar New Year. The new product, called "Nian Feng Savory Latte," will be available only in the Year of the Dragon, which began on February 10.
According to the product description on the Starbucks China delivery app, the drink, priced at $9.45, combines traditional latte ingredients (espresso and whipped milk) with Dongpo sauce flavored with slowly cooked pork. Jiupai News reported, citing representatives from Starbucks in China, that "customers are eagerly purchasing the special flavor coffee for the New Year, and some even come to stores specifically to inquire about the Nian Feng Savory Latte."
The "Shanghai Reserve Starbucks" explained in a post on the Chinese platform Weibo that the drink brings "traditional New Year customs into coffee" and creates "unexpected delicious flavors." The post also mentioned, "Eating meat means prosperity in the coming year."
The unconventional offering has sparked heated discussions on social media, with many users speculating about the taste of the drink and its purpose. Some have described it as "festive," while others noted the high price of the drink and lightly criticized Starbucks for joining the ranks of brands marketing "strange flavors" to boost profits.
It's noteworthy that China is Starbucks' second-largest market after the United States. However, the company faces numerous competitors in the Asian country, and it is known for offering unusual flavors to attract customers.
