In the early hours of the morning, many people need a caffeinated beverage to help them perk up. However, while walking into BHA, one can observe the emergence of one specific type — the classic Dutch Bros drink. From teachers to students, this recent obsession has taken the school by storm, and it is not unlikely to see many plastic cups with the iconic logo throughout the school on a daily basis. Not only that, but the prize for most of BHA’s competitions is often a $10 Dutch Bros gift card, a treasured reward. But, why is this? What has caused BHA to focus on one store’s drinks?
First, let’s take a look at the store’s proximity. Dutch Bros is about a five minute drive from BHA, and many families pass it on their way to school. Some juniors and seniors — during their allotted lunch break — opt to head to the nearby store for a mid-day pick-me-up. The store’s bright blue exterior and pictured items also makes its drinks an appealing treat. In addition, The Dutch Bros menu has a wide variety of drinks to choose from. Customers can pick from a selection of coffees, teas, and caffeinated soda drinks, called “Rebel Energy Drinks.” They also have the option to have their beverage hot, iced, or blended, making each trip to Dutch Bros a unique and delicious experience. Finally, many students have decided to boycott Starbucks, an immensely popular coffee shop, in solidarity with Palestine. While Starbucks is just across the street from Dutch Bros, it doesn’t get nearly as much business as the latter does, particularly from BHA students and teachers. “I personally go to Dutch Bros mainly because it’s the only non-boycott cafe nearby that is open early in the morning.” explains high school junior Eman Hayee. “It definitely isn’t my first choice, though–the tea store across the street, Feng Cha, tastes much better, but doesn’t open until later in the day.”
With the restricted schedules of high school students at BHA, finding a reliable coffee option in the morning is definitely a priority for many. When running short on time, sometimes it is easier to buy a drink then make one at home. “I like Dutch Bros because it’s open early, and tastes good. However, it definitely isn’t cheap. One drink alone usually sets me back $6!” says high school junior Shifa Alhaddad.
However, there is a question to be asked: why don’t students opt for the cafe just across from BHA — “1418 Coffee?” It is certainly closer than Dutch Bros, and like Dutch Bros, it also has a diverse menu with many options to choose from. “I believe that it’s probably because Dutch Bros has a drive-through, while the other coffee shop, 1418 Coffee, doesn’t,” states eighth-grade student Nadine Hussien. In the morning, students need a quick and reliable option to choose from in the morning, and having a drive through definitely improves Dutch Bros’ appeal.
However, opting for a sugary coffee drink in the morning is not the best way to start the day, especially as a busy student. One should eat a healthy breakfast in the morning, preferably with protein, complex carbs, and fiber, while avoiding excessively sugary and oily foods. According to the American Heart Association, “Men should consume no more than 9 teaspoons of added sugar per day. Women should consume no more than 6 teaspoons per day.” The average drink at Dutch Bros contains about 50 grams of sugar, with drinks ranging from 6 to 81 grams of sugar per drink, the former being from their “No Sugar” beverage line. Beginning the day with 50 grams of sugar is not good for anyone, no matter their age. Although it is okay to enjoy such a drink every once in a while, it should not be seen as a staple morning beverage, and students should opt for home-brewed coffee or tea instead.
There are a variety of factors contributing to BHA’s current obsession with Dutch Bros, including its close proximity, hours of operation, and easy access. While students should think twice before consuming so much sugar, Dutch Bros is certainly an iconic part of BHA culture, and something that all students have come to love.
