The coffee giant removes extra fees on plant-based milk, joining other major chains in a push for affordability and sustainability.
Dunkin’ just made plant-based coffee drinks more affordable! The popular coffee chain has officially dropped the extra charge for plant-based milk at its 9,500+ locations across the US. This game-changing decision follows discussions with Mercy For Animals’ corporate engagement team and aligns Dunkin’ with Starbucks, Dutch Bros, Gregorys Coffee, and Scooter’s Coffee, making plant-based options more accessible than ever.
A Win for Equity and Sustainability
“Mercy For Animals applauds Dunkin’ for this landmark decision,” said Jennifer Behr, corporate relations manager at Mercy For Animals. "Plant-based milk upcharges create barriers for those who cannot or choose not to consume dairy, making this a win for equity and sustainability.”
Nearly 90% of East Asians, 80% of Native Americans, 65% of African Americans, and 50% of Latin Americans experience lactose intolerance, making the removal of this surcharge an important step in inclusivity. Eliminating the upcharge makes plant-based milk an option for millions who need or prefer it.
Courtesy of Dunkin'
The Environmental Impact
Dunkin’s decision isn’t just about accessibility—it’s a huge step for sustainability. Dairy production is resource-intensive, requiring significantly more land and water while generating higher greenhouse gas emissions. Comparatively, oat milk production produces three times fewer greenhouse gas emissions than dairy, uses 11 times less land, and requires 13 times less water. By making plant-based milk a standard, cost-free option, Dunkin’ encourages customers to make environmentally friendly choices without the financial burden.
More Coffee Chains Have Made the Switch
Dunkin’ isn’t the only coffee chain eliminating the upcharge. Starbucks, Dutch Bros, Gregorys Coffee, and Scooter’s Coffee have also recently made plant-based milk available at no extra cost. This growing trend reflects an industry-wide shift toward inclusivity and sustainability, making it easier for customers to enjoy their favorite drinks without added fees. As more chains take this step, plant-based options become the new standard.
Will Other Chains Follow?
While five major coffee chains have now eliminated the upcharge, Mercy For Animals urges others, including Bluestone Lane and Biggby Coffee, to follow Dunkin’s lead.
Behr said, “This is a major milestone for plant-based accessibility. We commend Dunkin’ for and urge other chains, including Bluestone Lane and Biggby Coffee, to follow their lead. Offering plant-based milk at no extra cost benefits both customers and the planet.”
