Pork-flavored coffee? Starbucks releases Lunar New Year-inspired drink

(NewsNation) — Coffee drinkers may enjoy some breakfast bacon with their hot cup of joe, but mixing the two might just go too far for some people. For those brave enough to try it, Starbucks released a new “braised pork latte” at its reserve stores in China.

The new drink was released to mark the Chinese Lunar New Year and was dubbed the “Abundant Year Savory Latte,” CNN reported.

To celebrate the Lunar New Year, 25 Reserve stores across China have released limited-time beverages that feature local flavor profiles and highlight traditional customs, a Starbucks spokesperson told NewsNation.

“The Abundant Year Savory Latte blends the flavor of Dongpo braised pork to create a salty and sweet taste that is a traditional celebration of Lunar New Year,” the spokesperson said.

For 68 yuan, or $9.45, consumers will receive a latte made from espresso, milk and Dongpo Braised Pork Flavor Sauce. It’s even garnished with extra pork sauce and a chunk of pork breast meat, the report said.

“Eating meat means prosperity in the coming year,” the Shanghai Starbucks Reserve Roastery wrote on Weibo earlier this month, just days before the Lunar New Year began.

The Abundant Year Savory Latte is one of the four limited-time beverages available through Feb. 26, or while supplies last.

The other three beverages offered in honor of the Chinese Lunar New Year include:

• The Black Crispy Latte: Inspired by black sesame rice balls
• The Red Date Rice Macchiato: Inspired by Shaanxi’s traditional snack steamer cake with red dates
• The Nafu Almond Macchiato: Inspired by traditional almond tea