Latest news with #Mintel


CNBC
5 hours ago
- Business
- CNBC
From Starbucks to Smoothie King, restaurants seek to cash in on consumers' protein frenzy
Restaurant chains are joining in on the protein frenzy, hoping to encourage diners to pay more for extra macronutrients during a time when many consumers aren't spending as much. From "gym bros" to users of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, many Americans are trying to add more protein to their diets, with the goal of building or maintaining their muscle mass and feeling more satiated after meals. Moreover, diet trends that don't emphasize protein intake, such as the ketogenic diet, have fallen out of favor. "A lot of younger consumers are more proactive about their health habits, so they're looking for ways to support health now but also to support their health in the future," said Julia Mills, a food and drink analyst for market research firm Mintel. "Generation Alpha, Gen Z, millennials — these consumers are very active on social media, so they're constantly being fed this message that you need more protein, and protein helps you gain muscle and makes you stronger." Roughly a third of consumers said they loved high protein in the second quarter of 2025, up from 24% three years ago, according to Datassential, which tracks restaurant menus and consumer preferences. The trend has fueled a protein takeover in grocery store aisles, from protein-packed Eggo waffles to Khloe Kardashian's Khloud protein popcorn. But it's also hitting the menus of restaurants that are seeking ways to encourage diners to pay for premium food and drinks. Take Starbucks, for example. The coffee giant said in late July that it will roll out a cold foam packed with 15 grams of protein later this year; the regular cold foam add-on typically costs customers an extra $1.25 per drink. The new foam comes as the chain's U.S. sales have been shrinking for the past year as coffee drinkers brew their java at home or seek out trendier options. Rival Dutch Bros launched a protein coffee in early 2024 and charges customers an extra $1 for the customization. The menu addition fueled strong same-store sales growth and profits for the upstart chain. Eateries are seeking to attract diners like Jared Hutkowski, a 42-year-old director of brokerage in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He works out six days a week and tries to hit his daily protein goal to improve his physique and overall health. When he dines out, he tries to maximize his protein, although he sometimes goes for pizza anyway. "The biggest factor is what I am in the mood for that day, and then I normally try and select a meal that has a least a serving of some type of protein in it," Hutkowski said. This year, 28.4% of U.S. restaurant menus call out "protein," up from 5.9% a decade ago, according to Datassential. And the trend looks like it has staying power. Datassential predicts that by 2029, more than 40% of eateries will highlight protein on their menus. "Protein is one of those things that's never been vilified, because no one's ever said that eating too much protein can be bad for you," Mintel's Mills said. In the short term, consuming more protein than your body needs likely won't cause health issues, but in the long term, it could cause kidney problems, according to Diane Han, a registered dietitian based in San Francisco and the founder of Woking Balance Wellness. The recommended daily amount of protein intake varies by body weight but is roughly 46 grams for women and 56 grams for men, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For restaurants, protein's step change happened several years ago. In 2021, protein only had a menu penetration of 11.5%; by 2022, more than a quarter of restaurant menus used the term, based on Datassential data. That year, Dine Brands' IHOP, for example, introduced pancakes with 18 grams of protein per flapjack. Fast-casual eateries are the restaurant segment most likely to call out protein on their menus, thanks to the common practice of asking customers to pick their protein or offering to double their portion, according to Datassential. Fast-casual salad chain Sweetgreen introduced a line of "protein plates" in late 2023 as part of an effort to introduce more hearty options for dinner customers. The menu addition has helped the company grow its dinner business from 35% of sales to about 40%, executives said in March. Many restaurants are also leaning into U.S. consumers' desire for convenience. Accessibility may be why Datassential found that consumers tend to prefer protein-packed beverages. For Smoothie King, protein has been a menu staple since its founding more than 50 years ago. But in October, the chain took one step further, launching a menu aimed at consumers who take GLP-1 drugs for weight loss or diabetes. The rapid weight loss that can occur from the medications can cause muscle mass to drop, so doctors often advise patients to increase their protein intake to maintain their muscle. "It's a convenient, on-the-go way to get in your protein that you're looking for in your diet," said Lori Primavera, Smoothie King's vice president of research and development and product marketing. Many restaurants are also choosing to highlight existing protein-packed options, rather than adding new menu items that would slow down kitchens or add to much complexity to their operations. For example, Panda Express introduced its own protein plates earlier this year. The line, created in partnership with a registered dietitian, includes pre-existing menu items but packages them as a balanced meal, highlighting protein and fiber content. Chipotle Mexican Grill employed a similar strategy back in 2019 when it introduced "lifestyle bowls," marketed to fit different dietary goals, like the paleo diet or offering double protein. Likewise, in July, Chick-fil-A put the spotlight on its own high-protein options in a company blog, highlighting its grilled nuggets and the Cool Wrap, which features a grilled chicken breast, cheese and lettuce in a tortilla. But for the eateries that want to add new menu items, nachos with a choice of protein, restaurant-made protein bars and egg dishes that highlight high protein content are all increasingly popular options, according to Datassential trendologist Claire Conaghan. Eggs are one reason why breakfast, brunch and lunch eatery First Watch has always been "protein forward," CEO Chris Tomasso told CNBC. The chain hasn't adjusted its menu specifically to address consumers' demand for more protein, but TikTok influencers have highlighted how to order a high-protein meal when visiting its restaurants. "We hope that continues to be a trend because we're right down the middle of the fairway on that," Tomasso said. Of course, protein isn't the only way to win over health-conscious consumers. Hutkowski said his primary issue with eating at restaurants is that most of the food is cooked in oils, butter and heavy greases that rapidly add to his intake of fats for the day. "A restaurant finding cleaner ways to cook would be much more attractive to me than overly loaded protein dishes," he said.


Associated Press
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Handel's Unveils Knot Your Average Dough Ice Cream
Prepare your taste buds for a swalty experience starting Aug. 5 YOUNGSTOWN, OH, UNITED STATES, August 4, 2025 / / -- Handel's Ice Cream, the beloved brand serving ice cream since 1945, is scooping up another bold new flavor with the launch of Knot Your Average Dough. Starting Aug. 5 at participating locations, this limited-time offering features cookie dough-flavored ice cream with salted pretzel ripples folded in and then loaded with cookie dough pieces. The launch taps into one of the fastest-growing flavor trends: the sweet and salty mashup. According to Mintel, consumer demand for flavor complexity is driving a surge in 'swalty' treats that satisfy both cravings at once. Knot Your Average Dough is an innovative, craveable, and carefully crafted way of bringing the trend to the palette and redefining cookie dough indulgence. 'We are obsessive about the craft of our ice cream, and we wanted to share something that feels fun, nostalgic, and totally crave-worthy,' said Hillary Frei, Chief Marketing Officer of Handel's Ice Cream. 'Our team sampled over 30 different cookie dough variations before landing on the perfect bite. Knot Your Average Dough combines the rich cookie dough flavor with salty pretzel flavor for a flavor that feels both nostalgic and new.' The name itself reflects Handel's whimsical, signature approach to flavor naming. 'Some of our most beloved flavors such as Graham Central Station and Spouse Like A House hint at what the flavor is, but still leave room for guests to be surprised,' continued Frei. 'We did the same thing here. Knot your Average Dough is a nod to the pretzel ripple, which is something completely unique.' This marks the fourth limited-edition flavor of 2025 celebrating Handel's 80th anniversary. Earlier this year, the brand introduced Sticky Fingers, followed by Raspberry Dream Cream in the Spring and Frosted Animal Cookie in the Summer. Guests can enjoy the new Knot Your Average Dough flavor and other Handel's favorites in a dish, cone, or shake. For those looking to take some home, Handel's also offers its ice cream in pints so that fans can enjoy it later. For more information, including the latest news on the 80th anniversary, visit or follow them on Facebook or Instagram. About Handel's Ice Cream Handel's Ice Cream has been making and selling ice cream since 1945. Founded in Youngstown, Ohio, the legacy of Handel's began with Alice Handel. The brand was later purchased by Lenny Fisher, and what started as a single ice cream parlor has now grown into a beloved brand with over 160 locations nationwide. Handel's is committed to quality, using abundant ingredients to create their ice cream, which is made by hand in small batches at each location. They offer 48 flavors every day, with more than 140 additional flavors that rotate seasonally. Handel's is ranked in Franchise Times ' Top 400 list, recognizing the largest franchise systems in the United States, and its 'Fast & Serious,' a list of the smartest-growing franchises for the year. The brand was also ranked on Fast Casual's Movers & Shakers 2025 list, while Jennifer Schuler, CEO of Handel's, was named one of the top 25 industry executives, an honor recognizing exceptional leadership and innovation in foodservice. Handel's is also recognized as a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur Magazine. Handel's currently has over 160 locations across 15 states and is growing. To learn more about Handel's franchise opportunities, visit Brianne Barbakoff Ink Link Marketing +1 850-789-0608 email us here Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.


Time of India
27-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Velvet Bites, Smarter Choices: Is Chocolate the New Intelligent Nutrition?
New Delhi: As you read this, picture a square of rich, velvety chocolate melting on your tongue—its bittersweet complexity giving way to warm notes of roasted cocoa and a hint of vanilla. It's indulgence in its purest form—comforting, satisfying, and sinfully good. But what if we told you that this decadent delight is getting a glow-up? Once dismissed as a guilty pleasure, chocolate is now strutting into the world of intelligent nutrition —fused with protein, fiber, antioxidants, and even mood-boosting botanicals. No longer just a sweet escape, it's being reimagined as fuel for the mind, body, and soul. From stevia-sweetened bars for the sugar-conscious to cocoa-packed bites loaded with nootropics for brain power, today's chocolate is seducing your taste buds and your wellness goals. So yes, you can have your chocolate—and eat it smart, too? Chocolate began its shift from indulgence to intelligent nutrition in the early 2000s, as health-conscious consumers and food innovators started embracing functional snacking. The trend gained momentum with the rise of dark chocolate's antioxidant properties, followed by the integration of added proteins, fiber, vitamins, and low-GI sweeteners. By 2010, the global demand for dark chocolate had surged, with studies highlighting its cardiovascular benefits and high flavonoid content. According to a 2015 report by Mintel, nearly 48% of Indian consumers viewed dark chocolate as a 'healthier' alternative to milk chocolate. This perception has only strengthened with the clean-label and high-protein snack revolution. Today, chocolate is seen as a delivery system for clean energy, satiety, and wellness—especially in formats like protein bars, functional chocolates, and sugar-conscious alternatives. But is this the right approach? India's protein bar market, valued at over ₹600 crore in 2023, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20%, driven largely by chocolate-based products that align indulgence with fitness and nutrition goals. Functional chocolate brands are also leveraging sweeteners like stevia and erythritol, as 62% of Indian consumers now actively seek low- or no-sugar snacking options (Nielsen, 2022). This evolution reflects a broader shift toward mindful indulgence—where taste and health can co-exist—marking chocolate's transformation from guilty pleasure to intelligent nutrition. Kalpana Gupta, Clinical Nutritionist - Nutrition and Dietetics, Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, said, "With growing evidence on the benefits of cocoa polyphenols and the advent of clean-label formulations, my approach has shifted from restricting chocolate to allowing it in moderate amounts—especially dark chocolate and those with added protein or fiber—for people who are looking to manage weight while satisfying their sweet tooth." Dr. Vilas Shirhatti, Principal Adviser at Zydus Wellness (RiteBite Max Protein), said, "The clean-label movement is pushing for more transparency in labeling, fewer ingredients in formulations, and freedom from unrecognizable additives and preservatives. For chocolates, this means adding more cocoa; using natural, healthy sugar alternatives like coconut sugar and jaggery —or, for sugar-free options, monk fruit or stevia with natural flavorings like vanilla; removing dairy and nuts to achieve allergen-free claims; ensuring non-GMO and organic cocoa; and incorporating one or two functional ingredients such as ashwagandha, turmeric, or natural nootropics for added benefits. Manufacturers are also exploring the removal of emulsifiers, opting instead for cocoa butter and mechanical processing to improve smoothness and mouthfeel. The challenge lies in maintaining the indulgent taste and texture of chocolate." According to Gupta, chocolate can be considered 'intelligent nutrition' when it includes protein and fiber for satiety, low-GI or natural sweeteners, and is free from harmful additives and trans fats. Dr. Shirhatti added that 'intelligent nutrition' refers to food that is thoughtfully formulated to provide targeted health benefits beyond basic nutrition. 'Cocoa powder by itself is intelligent nutrition,' he explained, 'as it is a rich source of protein, dietary fiber, and polyphenols—powerful antioxidants.' "Reducing sugar levels, using healthier fats, complementing cocoa with other protein sources to create a complete protein, and increasing cocoa content in formulations makes chocolate more intelligent," he said. He also added that the efforts are also underway to enhance chocolate with functional ingredients like L-theanine, lion's mane mushroom, MCT oil, and omega-3s for cognitive health; magnesium, adaptogens, and tryptophan for mood regulation; probiotics and prebiotics for gut health; and caffeine, theobromine, or B-vitamins for sustained energy. "There's even work on beauty-from-within chocolates with collagen, hyaluronic acid, and biotin for skin and hair health. All of this, of course, requires scientific backing and clinical validation," Dr Shirhatti adds. Consumers, he stressed, must understand all the ingredients, their intended benefits, and the required dosage to experience results. Clean snacking is a promising trend, and protein-enriched chocolates are an important part of that movement. Functional Chocolate for Specific Needs Can there be functional chocolates tailored for specific patient groups like athletes, diabetics, or stressed-out professionals? Yes, there are target-specific formulations available. Products are now aligned with individual dietary needs—keto, vegan, paleo, allergen-free, gluten-free, and low-GI—offering more personalized nutrition. Functional chocolates can be part of a healthy diet. However, any product must be evaluated as part of a broader lifestyle plan, including a balanced diet and safe consumption limits. Issues like chronic stress in young professionals or patients cannot be solved solely with functional chocolates and require proper medical attention. That said, functional chocolates are undoubtedly a better option than traditional indulgent chocolate, especially given its universal appeal. Dr. Ripen Gupta, Principal Director & Unit Head – Cardiac Sciences, Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, offered a cautious perspective. 'While dark chocolate contains more flavanols than other types, current data shows that the amount available in commercial chocolate may not be sufficient to provide a significant health benefit." Gupta adds that to make dark chocolate more palatable, sugar is often added, making it calorie-dense and unsuitable for overconsumption. In a 2017 controlled study, researchers found that a combination of raw almonds, dark chocolate, and cocoa helped reduce LDL ('bad') cholesterol in overweight individuals. However, when the almonds were removed, chocolate and cocoa alone had no significant impact on heart health. Researchers attributed this to the lower flavanol dose—274 mg compared to 586 mg in earlier studies—suggesting that such beneficial levels are unlikely to be achieved through regular chocolate consumption. The Cocoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), a large 2022 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, tracked over 20,000 older adults for a median of 3.6 years. Participants were given a cocoa extract capsule or a placebo. The study found no significant reduction in cardiovascular events linked to cocoa supplementation. "Still, chocolate, especially dark varieties, can play a positive role in mental well-being. It has been linked to mood elevation, improved cognitive function, and stress reduction. But, as always, moderation is key," Dr Gupta cautioned. So, is chocolate truly "intelligent nutrition"? The answer lies somewhere between science and sensibility. Dark chocolate, especially in clean-label, protein-packed, or functional formats, offers promising benefits—but it's not a shortcut to health. Its power lies in how it's made, how much you consume, and how well it fits into your broader lifestyle. For Indian consumers navigating crowded supermarket shelves and health claims flooding their social media feeds, one thing is clear: smart snacking starts with smarter choices. That means reading labels, understanding ingredients, and recognising that no single food however tempting can do it all. But if there was ever a reason to smile about eating chocolate, this might just be it. So go ahead—break off a square, let it melt slowly, and savour the taste of indulgence reimagined through the lens of intelligent nutrition.
Yahoo
19-07-2025
- Yahoo
Swap pricey summer getaways for these UK hidden gems
With the cost of living crisis continuing to hit people's wallets, many travellers are looking to stay closer to home for their summer holidays. Indeed, nearly three-quarters (71%) of Brits say cost is a key factor in choosing staycations over trips abroad, according to Mintel. Meanwhile, many holiday-makers are increasingly concerned about their carbon footprint and looking at alternatives to flying, making staycations popular. To avoid navigating sky-high flight prices, scrambling to find accommodation abroad and having to do lots of background research into potential hidden costs of a foreign trip, here are four 'dupe' holiday locations that channel the vibes of popular – and often pricier – far-flung destinations. 1. Choose Staithes, Yorkshire over Cinque Terre, Italy Italy's Cinque Terre is popular among tourists for its narrow streets, pastel villages and rich history. A slightly quieter and cheaper UK alternative could be Staithes – a charming Yorkshire fishing village with similar coloured cottages, winding cobbled streets and panoramic coastal views. Read more: How to save money on your holiday to Switzerland as Women's EURO 2025 kicks off Enjoy fresh fish and chips after exploring the cliffside along the Cleveland Way or go fossil hunting on the beach when the tide is out. With cheaper accommodation options and free activities such as beach-combing and hikes, Staithes is a lesser-known alternative to the popular Italian staycation. 2. Opt for Fowey, Cornwall instead of Santorini, Greece With its whitewashed houses and turquoise waters, the Greek island of Santorini is a top pick as a honeymoon destination for newlyweds. Fowey in Cornwall is a great alternative for couples looking for a cosy retreat with beautiful sunsets in the UK. With many Instagrammable hotspots, Fowey has a dreamy aesthetic with pastel cottages and estuary walks. For a romantic excursion, you can even kayak to a hidden beach. The peninsula is served by trains arriving at Par, followed by a short bus ride. You can stay at a harbourside Airbnb for a little over £100/night while enjoying a fresh crab sandwich for less than a fiver. 3. Explore Portmeirion, Wales instead of Portofino, Italy Italy's Portofino lures travellers with its luxury yachts and glamorous Riviera atmosphere. For an equally dreamy escape closer to home, head to Portmeirion; a unique Welsh village that feels like the Mediterranean, sandwiched between Snowdonia's mountains and the sea. Portmeirion was designed in the 1920s to mimic an Italian coastal town; it entices visitors with its candy-coloured villas, distinct architecture and hidden gardens. Take a direct train from London Euston to Bangor, then a short 30-minute taxi to Portmeirion. Stay at a quirky cottage for £90/night and stroll the peaceful estuary, explore subtropical woodlands, or relax on the quiet nearby beaches without the crowds of its Italian counterpart. Hike the Gwyllt woodland trails or visit Harlech Castle. To get a taste of Italy, there are also a number of highly-rated gelato spots in Portmeirion. 4. Swap Skye in Scotland for Dungeness, Kent For travellers on a tighter budget who want to experience the dramatic landscapes of Scotland's Isle of Skye, Dungeness in Kent offers a similar sense of peaceful isolation at a fraction of the cost and distance. Both offer dramatic landscapes dotted with decaying fishing boats that seem frozen in time. While Skye has its jagged peaks and peat bogs, Dungeness also offers dramatic contrasts, featuring vast shingle ridges and saline marshes. This part of the Kent coast is also Britain's only desert. Read more: How to save money on a holiday to Dubai Each destination is also known for its rich wildlife, with Skye home to puffins, sea eagles and red deer, while Dungeness has over 600 rare plant species, from samphire to lichens, in its protected wetlands. However, getting to Skye in the Inner Hebrides can be tricky given its remote location and may come with the disadvantage of crowds in peak season, with accommodation costing over £120/night. On the other hand, Dungeness is relatively reachable by train or car from across the UK and seaside Airbnbs can start at £60/night. It's a great dupe for those looking to explore a remote and striking coastal location without the complex in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data


NBC News
10-07-2025
- Business
- NBC News
Trump's tariffs on Brazil could make your coffee even more expensive
President Donald Trump 's proposed 50% tariff on Brazilian imports is bad news for coffee drinkers. Brazil, the largest U.S. supplier of green coffee beans, accounts for about a third of the country's total supply, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Coffee beans need to grow in a warm, tropical climate, making Hawaii and Puerto Rico the only suitable places in the United States to farm the crop. But, as the world's top consumer of coffee, the U.S. requires a massive supply to stay caffeinated. Mintel estimates that the U.S. coffee market reached $19.75 billion last year. The increase in trade duties could leave consumers with even higher costs after several years of soaring coffee prices. Inflation-weary consumers have seen prices for lattes and cold brew climb as droughts and frost hit the global coffee supply, particularly in Brazil. Earlier this year, coffee bean futures hit all-time highs. They rose 1% on Thursday, although still well below the record set in February. To be sure, there's still time for Brazil to strike a deal with the White House before the tariffs go into effect on Aug. 1. Plus, food and beverage makers are hoping that the Trump administration will grant exemptions for key commodities. U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said in an interview in late June that the White House is considering exemptions for produce that can't be grown in the U.S. — including coffee. But if that doesn't happen, coffee companies like Folgers owner J.M. Smucker, Keurig Dr Pepper, Starbucks and Dutch Bros will face much higher costs for the commodity. Giuseppe Lavazza, chair of Italian roaster Lavazza, said on Bloomberg TV on Thursday morning that the latest tariff could mean 'a lot of inflation' for the coffee industry. Roasters will try to mitigate the impact of the higher tariff, but it won't be easy. 'Every company is always trying to eke out the next efficiency, to dial into their operations or find the way to minimize inflationary pressures, but a 50% tariff on a commodity that fundamentally is not available in the U.S. — you can't really do much with that,' Tom Madrecki, vice president of supply chain and logistics for the Consumer Brands Association, a trade group that represents the consumer packaged goods industry. One mitigation tactic could be to import beans from countries other than Brazil, but companies will likely still be paying more for the commodity. 'A characteristic of tariffs, especially when you have tariffs on multiple countries at once, is that not just the inbound cost rises. It allows the pricing floor to also rise,' Madrecki said. 'If you have cheaper coffee in a country different than Brazil, you're not inclined to sell it at a 30% lower cost. You're going to try to bump your coffee up a bit more, too.' At-home coffee brands, like JM Smucker's Dunkin' and Kraft Heinz's Maxwell House, have already been hiking their prices this year in response to spiking commodity costs. More price increases could be on the way for consumers, although retailers may push back. Keurig Dr Pepper would consider additional price hikes in the latter half of the year to mitigate the impact of tariffs, CEO Tim Cofer said in late April, after Trump introduced his initial round of so-called reciprocal duties. And Smuckers warned investors on its quarterly conference call in early June that tariffs on coffee were weighing on its profits. Coffee accounts for roughly a third of the company's revenue. 'Green coffee is an unavailable natural resource that cannot be grown in the continental United States due to its reliance on a tropical climate,' Smuckers CEO Mark Smucker said. 'We currently purchase approximately 500 million pounds of green coffee annually, with the majority coming from Brazil and Vietnam, the two largest coffee-producing countries.' Vietnam, which announced a tentative trade deal with the White House earlier this month, supplies about 8% of the U.S.'s green coffee beans. Under the agreement, the U.S. will impose a 20% duty on Vietnamese imports. Consumers who prefer a caramel macchiato from Starbucks for their caffeine hit will likely see a more muted impact on their wallets. After several quarters of sluggish U.S. sales, Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol said in late 2024 that the company wouldn't raise prices in 2025, in the hopes of winning back customers who had complained about how expensive its drinks had gotten. While it waits for its turnaround to take hold, Starbucks might choose to swallow the higher coffee costs. The coffee giant also benefits from its diversity — both in suppliers and the breadth of its menu, which now includes the popular Refreshers line. Starbucks imports its coffee from 30 different countries, and roughly 10% of its cost of goods sold in North America comes from coffee. The new trade duty could mean a 0.5% increase in Starbucks' North American cost of goods sold, assuming about 22% of its beans come from Brazil, TD Cowen analyst Andrew Charles wrote in a note to clients on Thursday. Starbucks' packaged drinks, which are distributed by Nestle, could see their cost of goods sold increase 3.5%. Altogether, that represents a 5-cent drag on annual earnings per share, according to Charles. For rival Dutch Bros, higher coffee costs also wouldn't hurt its bottom line much. Coffee accounts for less than a tenth of the drive-thru coffee chain's cost of goods sold. Assuming that Dutch Bros sources more than half of its coffee from Brazil, its cost of goods sold would rise just 1.3%, according to Charles' estimates.