Vegan Coconut Latte Debuts at 2,000 Coffee Shops

International coffee chain Costa Coffee added coconut milk and vegan-friendly beverages last week to the menu at more than 2,000 locations in the United Kingdom. The new plant-based milk option is also featured in a vegan Coconut & Vanilla latte and can be used in place of dairy milk in all of Costa’s prepared drinks. “January is the start of fresh beginnings for many,” Costa Global Innovations Director Russell Braterman said, “and it’s often a time when people are looking to try something new. Opting for dairy-free alternatives and natural flavors are growing trends, and coconut is becoming more and more popular. Coconut milk complements coffee perfectly and offers a fantastic alternative choice for our customers.” The chain also introduced a vegan food item—the Paradise Slice, a baked good made with raspberries, pistachios, and coconut cream topped with dark chocolate. Competing international coffeehouse Starbucks announced last week its addition of oat milk to menus across the UK, a sign that large companies are vying for consumers looking for plant-based milk options.