Protein surge reshapes menus at Starbucks, Subway and other chains.

Restaurants including Subway and Starbucks are adding higher-protein items such as Subway's Protein Pockets and Starbucks' protein lattes; chains like Sweetgreen and Cava and food firms such as Rä Foods are also expanding protein-focused offerings as companies link the shift in part to appetite changes tied to GLP-1 weight-loss drugs.

Restaurants and fast-food chains are adding more protein items to menus as consumer interest in higher-protein meals grows. Subway introduced Protein Pockets described as soft tortillas with chicken, ham or turkey and said each contains more than 20 grams of protein and costs under $4. Starbucks rolled out Protein Cold Foam and protein lattes with roughly 15 to 36 grams of protein per 16-ounce drink. Other chains, including Sweetgreen and Cava, are expanding protein offerings, and food tech firm Rä Foods says it is focusing on nutrient quality and functional ingredients. What we know: - Subway announced Protein Pockets with more than 20 grams of protein and a price point under $4, and it is adding daily "Sub of the Day" protein-focused specials. - Starbucks began rolling out Protein Cold Foam and a line of protein lattes in September, with about 15 to 36 grams of protein per 16-ounce beverage. - Sweetgreen launched a Function Menu with Function, introduced a Protein Max Bowl containing 106 grams of protein, increased chicken and tofu portion sizes by 25% without raising prices, and now lists more than 10 menu items with 30 grams of protein or more; it also added a macronutrient calculator to its app. - Cava's leadership signaled plans to expand premium protein offerings, including adding roasted salmon. - Rä Foods is adding protein across its portfolio while emphasizing "living nutrition," nutrient quality, bioavailability and function. The company said changes in appetite tied to GLP-1 drugs have made people more intentional about what they eat. - The article reports that the rise of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and Zepbound has helped push consumers toward higher-protein meals, and that experts note a proposed "upside-down" food pyramid emphasizing protein. Summary: Many chains and food companies are emphasizing higher-protein options and related tools such as app-based macronutrient breakdowns in response to shifting consumer preferences. Companies and founders cite changing appetite patterns, product innovation and broader nutritional debates as drivers of the trend. Undetermined at this time.