Last week, Starbucks released the “Molten Chocolate Latte,” a limited-edition drink that was only available in the week leading up to Valentine’s Day. In an effort to promote the so-called #StarbucksDate (unoriginal or classic? You decide.), this drink features “chocolately chips” among other artisanal-sounding ingredients that are sure to win over any potential romantic interests.
Excitement about the latest installment in your caffeine addiction aside, what exactly does “chocolatey” mean? Well, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in order for an ingredient to be listed as chocolate, it must contain at least a certain amount of “chocolate liquor,” or cocoa that is in liquid form. That’s 15 percent, to be precise! The Molten Chocolate Latte rings in at only two percent. Therefore, it cannot technically call itself chocolate. Chocolatey, chocolate-flavored, and chocolate-esque are allowed, though.
Despite this technicality, the Molten Latte and other Starbucks drinks are sure to satisfy any and all chocolate cravings, as they include other ingredients such as “Chocolate Espresso Whipped Cream” and “Chocolate Espresso Drizzle.” Definitely no shortage of chocolatey flavors here. Alternatively, give one of these healthy substitutes for your favorites a try!
So go ahead, continue posting pictures to Snapchat and Instagram of your new favorite Starbucks drink, but if you’re going to use the word “chocolate” to describe it, watch out for the FDA!