When you walk into a coffee shop, the aroma of roasted beans instantly tells you you’re about to sip something familiar – *but* there’s a quiet under‑current that many customers don’t noticechicoryBoth Starbucks and Dunkin’ have flirted with this root‑derived ingredient for decades, using it to stretch coffee budgets, mellow bitterness, and add a nostalgic New‑England flavor. In a market where sugar‑laden Frappuccinos and oversized iced coffees dominate the menu, understanding thebenefits and drawbacks of chicorycan help you make a healthier choice without sacrificing taste
What Is Chicory?
Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a leafy plant whoseroot is roasted, ground, and brewedmuch like coffee. Historically, it was a cheap coffee substitute during wartime shortages, and today it’s prized for itsinulin fibera prebiotic that fuels beneficial gut bacteria. The root also containspolyphenolschlorogenic acidsand a modest amount of caffeine‑like compounds, giving it a subtle, nutty‑earthy profile
> *Key point:* Chicory’sinulinis a soluble fiber that can improve gut health, but it is alsoFODMAP‑highmeaning it may trigger symptoms in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
How Starbucks and Dunkin’ Use Chicory
| Brand | Typical Chicory‑Based Drink | Approx. Chicory % | Serving Size | Calories (kcal) | Added Sugar (g) | Caffeine (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starbucks | Chicory Latte (espresso + steamed milk + 10 % chicory blend) | 10 % | 16 oz (473 ml) | 190 | 18 | 150 |
| Dunkin’ | Original Blend Coffee with Chicory (drip coffee) | 15 % | 14 oz (414 ml) | 5 | 0 | 120 |
| Starbucks | Cold Brew with Chicory (cold brew + chicory) | 12 % | 16 oz (473 ml) | 10 | 0 | 160 |
| Dunkin’ | Chicory Iced Coffee (iced coffee + chicory) | 15 % | 14 oz (414 ml) | 8 | 0 | 115 |
*Chicory % is an estimate based on publicly available blend information and typical barista recipes. Values can vary by location and customizations
Starbucks
Starbucks introduced achicory‑infused lattein select markets as a seasonal offering. The drink combines a standard espresso shot (≈ 75 mg caffeine) with steamed milk and a10 % roasted chicory blendThe result is a smoother, less acidic cup that still delivers the brand’s signature caffeine punch
Dunkin’
Dunkin’ has a longer history with chicory, especially in theNortheastwhere the classic “Original Blend Coffee with Chicory” remains a staple. Their drip coffee often contains15 % chicorywhich lowers the overall caffeine content while adding a distinct, slightly sweet earthiness. Dunkin’ also offers aniced versionthat retains the same chicory ratio
The Science Behind Chicory’s Health Claims
Prebiotic Power
Inulin makes up roughly70 %of chicory root’s dry weight. As asoluble fiberit resists digestion in the small intestine and ferments in the colon, feeding *Bifidobacteria* and *Lactobacilli*. This fermentation produces short‑chain fatty acids (SCFAs) likebutyratewhich support colon health, improveblood sugar regulationand may reduce inflammation
> For a deeper dive on how soluble fiber benefits gut health, seeSoluble Fiber: Boost Gut Health & Blood Sugar
Polyphenol Antioxidants
Chicory containschlorogenic acida polyphenol also abundant in coffee beans. During roasting, chlorogenic acid breaks down intoquinic and caffeic acidswhich have been linked toanti‑inflammatoryandanti‑agingeffects. The darker the roast, the more quinic acid forms, but excessive roasting can also increase bitterness
> Learn more about polyphenol benefits inPolyphenol‑rich foods: anti‑inflammatory & anti‑aging benefits
Blood Sugar Impact
Because inulin is alow‑glycemiccarbohydrate, chicory‑based drinks tend to have asmaller post‑prandial glucose spikecompared with sugary coffee beverages. However, many Starbucks and Dunkin’ drinks add flavored syrups, whipped cream, or whole‑milk bases that can quickly outweigh the low‑glycemic advantage
> Practical tips for stabilizing blood sugar are outlined inLow Glycemic Diet: 5 Practical Tips to Stabilize Blood Sugar
Drawbacks to Keep in Mind
Digestive Sensitivity
Inulin is aFODMAP‑highingredient. For individuals with IBS, small‑bowel bacterial overgrowth, or fructose malabsorption, chicory can causebloating, gas, and abdominal crampingA low‑FODMAP version of a coffee drink would need the chicory component reduced to≤ 0.5 g per servingwhich is far below the typical 10‑15 % blend used by both chains
Bitterness & Acidity
While chicory can *smooth* the perceived acidity of coffee, thechlorogenic acidspresent in both coffee and chicory can still contribute tostomach irritationfor sensitive users. Darker roasts increase quinic acid, which may aggravate acid reflux. This is especially relevant for thecold‑brewofferings that sit on a warmer for extended periods, allowing more acid extraction
Added Sugars & Calories
A plain chicory‑infused coffee is virtually calorie‑free, but thepopular Starbucks latteand manyDunkin’ flavored iced coffeesaddsyrups, whipped cream, and whole‑milkFor example, a *Starbucks Chicory Latte* can contain18 g of added sugar(≈ 45 % of the daily value) and190 kcalturning a health‑focused drink into a sugar bomb
Potential Allergen Concerns
Although rare, some individuals may be allergic tochicory pollenor experience cross‑reactivity withragweedSymptoms can range from mild oral itching to more severe respiratory reactions
Comparing the Two Chains: Which Is Better for Chicory Lovers?
| Aspect | Starbucks | Dunkin’ |
|---|---|---|
| Chicory Ratio | 10 % (latte) – 12 % (cold brew) | 15 % (drip & iced) |
| Typical Caffeine | 150 mg per 16 oz (espresso‑based) | 115‑120 mg per 14 oz (drip) |
| Sugar‑Free Options | Yes – order “no‑syrup” or use stevia | Yes – plain drip/iced coffee has 0 g sugar |
| Customizable Milk | Almond, soy, oat, dairy‑free (adds fiber) | Skim, 2%, whole, or dairy‑free alternatives |
| Low‑FODMAP Friendly? | Only if chicory is omitted or reduced | Same – need to request “no chicory” |
| Price (average) | $3.75 for 16 oz latte | $2.25 for 14 oz iced coffee |
Bottom Line
-If you prioritize gut healthand can tolerate FODMAPsDunkin’offers a higher chicory concentration, delivering more inulin per cup
-If you need a caffeine boostwithout extra acidity, theStarbucks espresso‑based latteprovides more caffeine while still delivering a modest chicory dose
-For low‑calorie, low‑sugar drinksboth chains can be customized to be sugar‑free, butDunkin’ plain drip coffeeis the simplest, lowest‑calorie choice
How to Order a Healthier Chicory Coffee
1Ask for “no added syrups.”Both chains allow you to replace sugary flavorings withsteviaorcinnamon
2Choose a plant‑based milkwith extra fiber (e.g., oat milk) to complement the prebiotic effect of chicory
3Request a “half‑caff”if you’re sensitive to caffeine but still want the chicory flavor
4Opt for a smaller size(12 oz / 355 ml) to keep calories in check while still enjoying the health benefits
5If you’re low‑FODMAPexplicitly ask the barista toomit chicoryor request a “light‑chicory” version (≈ 5 % blend). While not standard, many locations will accommodate a reduced‑chicory brew
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does chicory contain caffeine?
A: Chicory itself is caffeine‑free, but most commercial drinks pair it with coffee or espresso, so the caffeine content comes from the coffee component
Q: Can chicory replace coffee entirely?
A: Yes, you can brew 100 % chicory root for a caffeine‑free, coffee‑like beverage. It will be sweeter and less bitter, but the flavor profile is distinct
Q: Is chicory safe for pregnant women?
A: In moderate amounts (up to 2 cups per day), chicory is generally recognized as safe. However, high doses of inulin may cause gastrointestinal upset, so moderation is key
Q: How does chicory affect blood pressure?
A: Thepotassiumin chicory may have a modest blood‑pressure‑lowering effect, but the impact is minimal compared to overall diet and lifestyle
The Bigger Picture: Coffee, Chicory, and Your Health
Coffee itself is apolyphenol‑rich beveragethat can improve mental alertness, support metabolic health, and even lower the risk of certain neurodegenerative diseases. Adding chicory introducesprebiotic fiberandadditional antioxidantspotentially amplifying these benefits—*provided* you avoid excess sugar and stay within your tolerance for FODMAPs
When you weigh thepros(prebiotic fiber, lower caffeine, extra antioxidants) against thecons(possible GI distress, added sugars in specialty drinks, increased acidity), the decision comes down topersonal tolerance and customizationBoth Starbucks and Dunkin’ give you the tools to tailor a chicory‑infused coffee that aligns with your health goals
TakeawayIf you love the earthy notes of chicory and can handle a bit of inulin, try aplain Dunkin’ drip with chicoryfor a low‑calorie, high‑inulin start to your day. If you need that extra caffeine kick and enjoy a milk‑based latte, aStarbucks chicory latte with oat milk and no syrupcan be a satisfying middle ground
*Ready to explore more about how coffee components affect your body? Dive into our other nutrition deep‑dives:*
-Polyphenol‑rich foods: anti‑inflammatory & anti‑aging benefits
-Soluble Fiber: Boost Gut Health & Blood Sugar
-Low Glycemic Diet: 5 Practical Tips to Stabilize Blood Sugar
Enjoy your next cup of coffee—chicory or not—knowing you’ve got the science on your side
Sources and Further Reading
1Low FODMAP Choices At Starbucks & Dunkin' Donuts
2The Unhealthiest Coffee Drinks At Popular Chains
3Coffee craze: the good and bad of coffee
4Coffee Guide: Nutrition, Benefits, Side Effects, More
5Is Coffee Good for You? Benefits, Nutrition, Risks and Side
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