Starbucks' Largest Size Is Only Available For Certain Drinks

While the Starbucks secret menu isn't exactly the most exclusive information around, it still feels cool to expertly order something that not everyone knows about, such as a Raspberry Cheesecake Frappuccino or a Medicine Ball. Starbucks even has a secret drink size: The Trenta, which, at 31 ounces is its largest size. This super-sized cup is perfect for the days when you really need a pick-me-up but be advised that it is only available for certain cold beverages.

You can't order items like hot chocolate, lattes, or even plain hot coffee in a Trenta size. And in general, espresso-based drinks like iced Americanos and cappuccinos are also unavailable in a Trenta. If you want an extra large Starbucks drink, your only options are cold drinks like iced coffee, cold brew, iced tea, and Refreshers, but you can ask to add a shot of espresso. Unfortunately for fans of the frozen, Trenta Frappuccinos are also not available.

If you're bummed that you can't indulge in 31 ounces of Java Chip Frappuccino, rest assured that there are still plenty of delicious drinks available. You could order a Trenta of the classic Pink Drink, any version of Starbucks' tasty lemonades and Refreshers, or a Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew, which happens to be one of the best items on the menu.

Why Trenta sizes may be limited

Starbucks hasn't been too vocal as to why the Trenta options are so limited, but we can make some reasonable assumptions, like that there would simply be way too much caffeine in one drink. For example, a 16-ounce Starbucks Caramel Macchiato has about 150 milligrams of caffeine or a little over 9 milligrams per ounce. That means a 31-ounce Trenta would have almost 300 milligrams of caffeine, which is equal to more than four shots of espresso — enough to make even the biggest caffeine fiend a little shaky.

Though the idea of a jumbo White Chocolate Mocha is nice, it may be an example of too much of a good thing. For now, we should enjoy Trenta-sized drinks for what they are: A novel way to enjoy a large, refreshing beverage on a hot day. 

If you're unsure if your preferred order is available in a Trenta, you can always ask your barista. Or, scroll through your app.