While at a photo shoot in Chicago last month, I walked into a Starbucks early in the morning to get some much needed energy for my early call time and discovered that Starbucks now offers oatmeal. Imagine my surprise and delight because I hadn't yet eaten.
For $2.45 I can pick two "mix-ins" for my oatmeal: dried fruit, nuts or brown sugar. Well, I know that dried fruit is loaded with sugar and of course, brown sugar would negate any health benefits of a great bowl of oatmeal, so I opt for the nuts and add my own Splenda and cinnamon. After adding just the right amount, I sit down and dig in.
Much to my disappointment I discovered that the oats are actually instant oats made with skim milk. Not only are instant oats less tasty than whole oats but they are much less nutritious. Not to mention the fact that no one behind the counter could tell me if this variety of instant oats was made with sugar. Also, most skim milk varieties have a fair amount of sugar as well. This was nothing short of a bowl of mushy oats and sugar with a few nuts to top it off.
My advice, skip the Starbucks "healthy" menu items, just order your tall black coffee with Splenda, and go.
A closer look at the new menu:
Oatmeal:
Cost: $2.45
Calories: 140 with no toppings, 390 with all three toppings
This whole-grain oatmeal will be served hot in a cardboard to-go bowl. The oatmeal comes with three "mix-ins" - dried fruit, nuts, or brown sugar. Remember it is instant oatmeal made with skim milk. Although it may be a healthier option, it is not better than the whole oatmeal you make at home with water.
Apple Bran Muffin:
Cost: $1.75
Calories: 330
Made with whole-wheat flour, oats, wheat bran, apples, cherries, and honey. Too calorie dense and too much sugar.
Multi-Grain Roll:
Cost: $1.60
Calories: 280
Made with seven seeds and grains, served with a side of almond butter or strawberry preserves. Slightly better than the apple bran muffin but skip the sides.
Chewy Fruit & Nut Bar:
Cost: $1.75
Calories: 250
This energy bar is made with oats, dried fruit, nuts, seeds, and honey. I'd like to see the nutrition break down of these. If you are a marathon runner, it may actually be a decent option.
Power Protein Plate:
Cost: $4.95
Calories: 330
This "healthy" smorgasbord consists of a hard-boiled egg, a small whole-wheat bagel, a 70-calorie pack of peanut butter, a cheddar cheese wedge, apple slices, and grapes. Healthier than some breakfastoptions if you skip the bagel.
Baked Berry Stella:
Cost: $1.75
Calories: 280
A whole-grain pastry featuring seasonal fruits. Pastry. Enough said!
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