Starbucks is one of the most popular coffee brands in the United States, and it’s also one of the most addictive out of all of the options available, but do you know why that is?
Well, if you’ve been wondering why Starbucks is so addictive, continue reading to find out what I’ve discovered while researching this topic to answer all of your questions!
Why Is Starbucks So Addictive In 2024?
The main reason why Starbucks is so addictive is that most Starbucks drinks contain high levels of caffeine in 2024. Caffeine is an addictive substance and our brains crave caffeine when we no longer have it. Starbucks also is addictive because of the high levels of sugar and fat that are found in drinks such as Frappuccinos.
Do you want to know about the other reasons why Starbucks is so addictive, and why it makes you keep coming back for more? If so, continue reading below to find out additional details!
1. Caffeine
The biggest reason why Starbucks is so addictive is because of the heavy caffeine content found within Starbucks drinks, and caffeine is an addictive substance similar to nicotine.
Furthermore, when you ingest caffeine, dopamine, which is a feel-good chemical, is released and it makes you crave the substance even more.
2. Adrenaline Is Released Into Your Brain
Adrenaline is a chemical that is released into your brain when you drink Starbucks, thanks to the caffeine content, and this chemical will wake you up and give you energy.
Additionally, when you have adrenaline, your heart beats quicker and it makes you feel like you’re on top of the world and can do anything within a matter of minutes instead of hours.
3. High Sugar Content
Starbucks is known for producing drinks that contain high sugar content, and sugar is also an addictive substance and gives us a rush when we consume it.
Further, sugar can be addictive in the same way cocaine is according to some experts, and it produces dopamine and activates the opioid receptors in our brains, causing addiction.
4. Milk Fat
In combination with sugar and caffeine, milk fat is addictive, and it creates a yearning for more Starbucks drinks filled with cream or whipped topping along with the espresso/ coffee beans.
In addition, dairy can trigger the opioid response in the brain just as sugar can, and you’ll go through withdrawals if you try to quit the substances with milk fat in them cold turkey.
5. Salt
We already know how addicting salt is, and when you combine salt with sugar, caffeine, and milk fat, you get a more intense addiction, which is exactly what most Starbucks drinks contain.
Also, our brains seek out salt, and drinks such as the Caramel Frappuccino give us pleasure because of the salt content found within caramel and milk products.
6. Starbucks Coffee Is Strong
Some people don’t like Starbucks because it’s strong, while other people become addicted to Starbucks because of how strong the coffee is.
However, the reason that Starbucks coffee is so strong is that the company uses darker beans than most other restaurants.
Starbucks also roasts the beans at a higher temperature, which allows the company to produce more in less time.
7. Easy Mobile App Ordering & Pay
While a little different from other reasons why Starbucks is addictive, the company’s mobile app gives customers an easy way to order and pay for their drinks any time they want!
For example, Starbucks has said that customers pay for drinks using their smartphones over 7 million times a week, which is an incredible feat for any company!
Starbucks has managed to get people engaged with the mobile app, and with the ease of ordering and paying, has produced an even more addictive product due to accessibility.
8. Starbucks Is Everywhere
We can’t walk down the street without running into another Starbucks, and the fact it’s everywhere and easily accessible makes it more addicting.
Furthermore, with more than 15,000 locations throughout the United States, Starbucks has made sure that you’ll crave coffee and espresso no matter where you live!
9. Starbucks Rewards
Starbucks has a rewards program available and the rewards program itself can be addicting, especially if you’re someone that regularly goes to Starbucks.
For example, the green tier gives you 2 stars for each $1 that you spend, a free birthday reward, and other cool rewards.
Gold is the middle tier rewards membership, and you will get monthly double-star days as well as extra rewards for each set of 125 stars, and even receive a gold membership card!
Also, Starbucks has a hammered gold membership, which was given out to 14 people when it first launched, and it’s said to give you free Starbucks for your entire life!
10. Friendly Staff
One thing that keeps customers coming back to Starbucks is the fact that the baristas are all very friendly, warm, and smile when you walk into the room.
Similarly, you’ll find that the staff is helpful and willing to help customers find the perfect drink if they’re looking for something special.
It’s the friendly staff and knowing you’re walking in and getting great customer service that can make going into Starbucks addicting.
11. Starbucks Is a Coping Mechanism
Drinking Starbucks is a coping mechanism for many, whether it’s because they’re tired and need a pick-me-up or just want to feel special, or like they’ve pampered themselves with coffee.
For example, if you’re feeling depressed, you might grab a Starbucks drink to make you feel better because it’s indulgent and the caffeine makes you feel good inside and out.
To know more, you can also read our posts on why is Starbucks so popular, why is Starbucks so expensive, and what is Starbucks.
Conclusion
Starbucks is addictive because the drinks sold contain high levels of caffeine, and a lot of specialty drinks contain high levels of milk fat, sugar, and salt, which are all addictive.
Furthermore, when combined, our brains react and release dopamine and adrenaline, and even trigger our opioid receptors. Starbucks is also addicting because it’s everywhere, easily accessible, and has a friendly staff that makes you feel good.