Dunkin’ is eliminating non-dairy milk upcharges starting March 5, following customer demand and industry trends. Find out how this impacts coffee lovers and sustainability efforts.
Dunkin’ Ends Non-Dairy Milk Upcharges Nationwide
In a major shift towards customer inclusivity, Dunkin’ has announced that it will eliminate the extra charge for non-dairy milk alternatives, aligning itself with competitors like Starbucks and Dutch Bros. Beginning March 5, customers can enjoy oat, almond, or soy milk at no additional cost in their favorite Dunkin’ beverages.
This change follows overwhelming consumer feedback, calling for greater affordability and fairness for individuals with dietary restrictions and those opting for plant-based options. It also comes after a class-action lawsuit challenged the legality of extra charges on non-dairy substitutes.
The ‘Milk Tax’ Era is Over
For years, coffee chains have justified plant-based milk upcharges by citing supply chain costs, but customers have increasingly viewed them as an unnecessary penalty. With this move, Dunkin’ joins other major U.S. coffee chains—including Starbucks, Tim Hortons, Dutch Bros, and Scooter’s—in eliminating these fees.
“The era of the ‘milk tax’ is ending,” said Taylor Warren, President of the Center for Responsible Food Business. “This shift represents a win for consumers who have long pushed for fairness in pricing.”
With over 29,000 coffee shop locations nationwide adopting this change, the coffee industry is moving towards greater accessibility and sustainability.
Why Did Dunkin’ Make the Change?
Dunkin’s decision is not only consumer-driven but also influenced by legal pressure. In December 2023, a class-action lawsuit was filed in California federal court, accusing Dunkin’ of discrimination by imposing higher costs on individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. While the lawsuit was initially dismissed in May 2024, the plaintiffs continued to push for action.
Attorneys representing 10 plaintiffs, all of whom have milk allergies or lactose intolerance, stated:
“We believe our lawsuit played a key role in forcing Dunkin’ to eliminate this illegal surcharge.”
“We will continue to fight for compensation for affected customers.”
Impact on Consumers & the Environment
For many, Dunkin’s new policy means more than just savings—it’s a step towards sustainability and equity. According to Mercy For Animals, nearly 90% of East Asians, 80% of Native Americans, 65% of African Americans, and 50% of Latin Americans are lactose intolerant. By eliminating upcharges, Dunkin’ is making plant-based choices more accessible for all customers.
From an environmental standpoint, plant-based milks have a lower carbon footprint compared to dairy, with oat and almond milk requiring significantly less water and land resources. As more coffee chains adopt sustainable practices, this shift could encourage eco-conscious consumer habits without financial penalties.
What’s Next? Will Other Coffee Chains Follow?
With Dunkin’ and Starbucks leading the way, the question remains—will smaller coffee chains follow suit? Chains like Peet’s Coffee and Caribou Coffee still impose non-dairy surcharges, leaving them behind in a shifting industry landscape.
For now, Dunkin’ customers can enjoy their favorite lattes, cappuccinos, and cold brews with plant-based milk at no extra cost starting March 5.
FAQs
1. When does Dunkin’ remove the non-dairy milk upcharge?
Dunkin’ will officially eliminate all extra charges for non-dairy milk alternatives starting March 5, 2025.
2. What types of non-dairy milk will be available for free?
Customers can choose from oat milk, almond milk, and soy milk at no additional cost.
3. Does this apply to all Dunkin’ locations?
Yes, this policy is being implemented across all Dunkin’ stores nationwide.
4. Why did Dunkin’ make this change?
The decision was influenced by consumer demand, legal challenges, and competition from other major coffee chains that have already removed non-dairy upcharges.
5. Are other coffee chains also eliminating non-dairy surcharges?
Yes! Major brands like Starbucks, Tim Hortons, Dutch Bros, and Scooter’s have already removed extra charges for plant-based milk. Smaller chains may follow suit in the future.
Stay Updated with MoneyOye 🚀
For more breaking news on finance, business trends, and consumer updates, follow us on X (Twitter) and Telegramto never miss an update! ✅
