US Starbucks to Switch to 'Small Ice'... "No Change in Taste"

Using Smaller 'Nugget Ice' Than Traditional Ice
CEO: "We Will Improve Business by Advancing Technology"

Starbucks in the United States is set to change the size of its ice cubes to smaller ones than before.

According to a report by CNN on the 18th (local time), Starbucks' cold beverages will now contain smaller-sized ice called 'Nugget Ice.'

Since drinks with ice account for about 75% of Starbucks' total sales, American netizens are showing great interest in the new ice.

This photo is not directly related to the content of the article. [Image source=Pixabay]

Some netizens pointed out that "the new ice breaks apart more easily than the existing ice."

There were also opinions that the ice is similar to the 'Pellet Ice' used by Coffee Bean or Sonic.

Additionally, concerns were raised that the ice might melt quickly and change the taste or texture of the beverage.

Starbucks stated, "Nugget Ice does not melt faster," and "Since baristas use the same ice scoop, the amount of ice is not reduced."

They added, "We received very positive feedback when testing the new ice."

[Image source=Pixabay]

Meanwhile, Starbucks' new CEO, Laxman Narasimhan, is exploring various possibilities for business improvement, including installing new equipment.

Starbucks also has a goal to reduce water usage by half by 2030.

In a statement, Starbucks said, "The new ice machines use less water and will be rolled out to all stores within the next few years."

In early performance announcements this month, Narasimhan stated, "We will advance our technology and find fundamentally better ways to operate by using innovative equipment."

Additionally, Starbucks recently announced that an extra $1 charge will apply if customers request no water when ordering 'Refresher' beverages.

According to the U.S. daily newspaper New York Post, Starbucks explained, "This decision was made because adding customization to Refresher drinks involves additional ingredients."