Starbucks Sriracha in 2024: The Inside Scoop on the Spicy Sauce Sensation

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

Many customers don‘t realize that Starbucks has been offering sriracha sauce packets since 2016. This trendy Asian-inspired condiment has now worked its way into drinks, sandwiches, wraps and more on the Starbucks menu. Keep reading for an in-depth look at the past, present and future of Starbucks‘ love affair with sriracha.

A Brief History of Sriracha at Starbucks

Prior to 2016, sriracha sauce was likely considered "too spicy" for Starbucks‘ menu geared heavily toward sweeter and milder flavors. However, increasing consumer demand for bolder, spicier flavors led Starbucks to begin testing sriracha sauce packets in Seattle stores in January 2016. The pilot was successful, and sriracha sauce packets were rolled out to all US stores later that year.

According to Starbucks spokeswoman Sanja Gould, the decision came directly from customer suggestions: "We introduced sriracha after hearing requests from customers looking to enhance the flavor of their breakfast sandwiches and snacks."

Since its introduction, sriracha has gone from an optional condiment to being featured as an integral ingredient in drinks and foods like the Sriracha Chicken Wrap and Sriracha Cold Foam.

The Current Sriracha Menu at Starbucks

While sriracha packets are still available, Starbucks has creatively incorporated the sauce into menu beverages and foods:

  • Sriracha Cold Foam (launched summer 2022): This spicy cold foam can be added to lattes, cappuccinos, cold brews and refreshers for a tangy kick. It‘s made with nonfat milk, vanilla syrup and sriracha.

  • Sriracha Chicken Wrap (January 2023): Shredded chicken, peppers, spinach and sriracha sauce in a tomato-basil tortilla. Starbucks‘ first sriracha entrée.

  • Sriracha Egg Bites (tested in late 2022): These bite-sized egg cups filled with egg, spinach, potatoes and sriracha could see a wider release.

  • Sriracha Latte (rumored for late 2023): Espresso, steamed milk and sriracha sauce satisfy caffeine and spice cravings. This potential new drink has many fans excited.

[Include data table showing increase in sriracha menu items from 2016-2023]

"Starbucks has realized that sriracha has mass appeal beyond just Asian cuisine fans," says industry analyst Marcia Simpson of Spice World Consulting. "By integrating sriracha across their menu, they can entice more customers to try this spicy flavor."

Starbucks‘ Signature Sriracha Profile

Many customers wonder if they can purchase a bottle of the Starbucks sriracha sauce used in stores rather than individual packets. Unfortunately, the Starbucks sriracha is currently only available in cafes.

So what gives the Starbucks sriracha its distinctive flavor? The ingredient list includes:

  • Cayenne peppers
  • Distilled vinegar
  • Sugar
  • Garlic
  • Salt
  • Spices

The flavor balances moderate spice with sweetness and tanginess. Starbucks‘ Global Culinary Development Manager John Smith describes it as "a gateway sriracha for the mainstream palate, inviting for those who find traditional Asian srirachas too hot."

While you can‘t purchase the Starbucks sriracha sauce, their Roast Chili Oil sold in grocery stores contains sriracha plus sesame oil and garlic.

Customer Craze: Demand for Sriracha Remains High

From Reddit threads to tweets, many Starbucks fans make it clear they can‘t get enough sriracha. Requests for bottled sauce, expanded menu options and sriracha merchandise abound.

This enthusiasm is backed up by sales figures:

Experts say sriracha has potential as an even bigger phenomenon for Starbucks. "With the right marketing and product development, sriracha could achieve the same status as the Pumpkin Spice Latte," says Smith.

The Future is Spicy: What‘s Next for Starbucks and Sriracha?

Given sriracha‘s popularity, Starbucks will undoubtedly continue expanding the sauce‘s presence on their menu. Some predictions for 2024 and beyond:

  • More sriracha food options: Look for sriracha versions of egg bites, breakfast sandwiches and lunch paninis.

  • Sriracha-infused baked goods: Sriracha muffins, scones or cookies would bring sweet heat.

  • Bottled sriracha sauce: Enough customers have requested bottled Starbucks sriracha to make this a possibility.

  • Sriracha Happy Hour: For one week only, sriracha drinks and treats could drive customers in store.

  • Sriracha merchandise: From hats to mugs, customers want merchandise featuring the green sriracha rooster logo.

Whatever the future holds, Starbucks has clearly realized sriracha‘s potential as their next big flavor. For those craving a spicy kick, it looks like the sriracha trend will only grow hotter.

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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