Now, they're gearing up for another round of big reactions with the introduction of a new pork-flavored latte in China. Dubbed the "Lucky Savory Latte," this limited edition drink draws inspiration from Dongpo braised pork, a traditional Lunar New Year dish in China.
While this offering pays homage to Chinese culture, it's met with mixed reactions. Many native Chinese users online are questioning the rationale behind such a peculiar flavor, especially considering its price tag of 68 yuan, or $9.45. However, there are also those curious enough to give it a try.
Personally, I find Starbucks already excessively priced and somewhat overrated, not only in the U.S. but also in many other countries. This new flavor seems like another attempt to boost sales by capitalizing on the trend of releasing unconventional products to generate online buzz.
From Today:
“We become truly global by elevating the brand in locally relevant ways for our partners (employees) and customers in every market we operate,” a Starbucks spokesperson tells TODAY.com. “To celebrate the Lunar New Year, 25 Reserve stores across China have released limited time beverages that feature local flavor profiles and highlight traditional customs.”
Along with the Lucky Savory Latte, these Reserve stores are offering a Fortune Almond Macchiato, Red Date Rice Macchiato and Black Sesame Latte through Feb. 26 or while supplies last.
Reaction online to the pork-flavored latte online has been mixed, with social media users in China either expressing their interest or incredulity at such a meaty drink.
“Dongpo meat? I can’t understand this world,” wrote one person, according to social media posts uploaded by Gafei.com, a Chinese coffee network.
“The taste of the product research and development department is strange,” commented another person.
“Put bacon in the coffee! What’s the difference between this and putting chocolate in a small steamed bun?” wrote another in disagreement.
One Xiaohongshu user who sampled the latte said it “looks strange, but it tastes surprisingly delicious” and has a “wonderful salty-sweet flavor.”
Another user said they did not enjoy it because it tasted like fermented bean curd mixed with sweetener, though the piece of pork was “quite delicious.”
