Starbucks Brings Back Pumpkin Spice Latte, Corporate Media Says "Treat Yourself"

As summer ends, Starbucks marks the season with their Pumpkin Spice Latte, or "PSL." First introduced in 2003, the PSL has become an "iconic part of fall." With the drink's return imminent, here's what you need to know:

When can I get my hands on a PSL?

• In 2023, Starbucks launched their fall menu on Thursday, August 24.
• Looking back at the past 5 years, the launch date has varied:
  • 2022: Tuesday, August 30
  • 2021: Tuesday, August 24
  • 2020: Tuesday, August 25
  • 2019: Tuesday, August 27
  • 2018: Tuesday, August 28
• Based on this, predicted launch dates for 2024 are Thursday, Aug. 22 or Tuesday, Aug. 27.
  • A Starbucks employee confirmed to USA TODAY that the launch date is expected to be Aug. 22. Leaked information supports this.

What's in a PSL?

• The PSL is made with espresso, steamed milk, real pumpkin flavor, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
• The whipped cream topping is also spiced.
• You can order it hot, cold, or blended.
• A Grande (16-ounce) PSL made with 2% milk, two shots of espresso, milk foam, and whipped cream contains:
  • 390 calories
  • Total fat: 14 g (18% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg (17% DV)
  • Total carbohydrates: 52 g (19% DV)
  • Protein: 14 g (28% DV)
  • Caffeine: 150 mg
  • 50 grams of sugar (FDA daily recommended limit for added sugars)

The PSL is back, and according to USA TODAY, it's a "good source of calcium." So, go ahead and treat yourself.

References:

Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte History: https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2023/psl-turns-20-the-story-behind-starbucks-pumpkin-spice-latte/

Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Returns in 2023: https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2023/starbucks-pumpkin-spice-latte-returns-for-its-20th-year-on-aug-24/

Nutrition Facts: https://www.starbucks.com/menu/product/418/hot/nutrition

FDA Added Sugars Recommendation: https://www.fda.gov/food/new-nutrition-facts-label/how-understand-and-use-nutrition-facts-label

FDA Caffeine Guidelines: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/caffeine/#:~:text=Recommended%20Amounts&text=%5B5%5D%20The%20U.S.%20Food%20and,healthy%20adults%20to%20consume%20daily.