Dunkin’ Donuts Is Eliminating Its Plant-Based Milk Up Charge—Here’s Why It’s a Win for Everyone
Great news for almond milk lovers—Dunkin’ Donuts is making a major pricing change that benefits customers who prefer plant-based options.
Beginning March 5
Starting March 5, Dunkin’ Donuts will no longer charge extra for plant-based milk substitutes in any of its beverages. Previously, customers had to pay an additional fee to swap dairy for almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk. Now, a latte made with almond milk will cost the same as one made with whole milk, making Dunkin’ Donuts a more inclusive choice for all coffee drinkers.
This move follows in the footsteps of other major coffee chains like Starbucks, Dutch Bros, Tim Hortons, and Scooter’s, which have recently eliminated plant-based milk upcharges. The shift gained momentum after a lawsuit in California argued that charging extra for dairy-free milk could violate the Americans with Disabilities Act by unfairly impacting those who are lactose-intolerant.
Advocacy groups, including Mercy for Animals, have been pushing for this change and worked closely with Dunkin’ Donuts to make it happen. Jennifer Behr, corporate relations manager for the nonprofit, praised the company’s decision.
Mercy For Animals applauds Dunkin’ Donuts for this landmark decision,” Behr said in a statement. “Plant-based milk upcharges create barriers for those who cannot or choose not to consume dairy, making this a win for equity and sustainability.
With the price adjustment just around the corner, Dunkin’ Donuts customers can soon enjoy their favorite coffee drinks—whether with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based alternative—without the extra cost. Until then, why not celebrate by making a Cold Brew Coffee at home and adding a splash of almond milk?
