Quaker meets the 'Bucks

Starbucks is unleashing yet another gimmick in an attempt to be the leader of the healthy food race: oatmeal. "Morning Source" is the title of the coffee giant's new menu that will feature smarter breakfast options to accompany your grab-and-go triple shot, extra foam, extra whip latte. Hopefully, this will not encourage cappuccino consumers to forgo the sugar-free syrup, whip-less, skim milk alternatives that have made their drinks healthier as well. Regardless of the efforts to stay healthy, the chain still has its faithful sippers who will never change their morning blend orders unless the economy really gets out of hand and they end up spending $40 a week on coffee. It's a pretty smart technique, however; if the healthier menu lures healthier people into one of the four stores on the block, the scintillating scent of the brewed bevs is likely to persuade visitors to order that $4 mocha with their energy bar.

Toppings for the oatmeal will include brown sugar, a fruit medley, and a nut blend. Other new items include a chewy fruit and nut bar, a "power protein plate" with 13 grams of protein, and the standard apple bran muffin, but made with whole wheat flour, oats, and wheat bran for its re-emergence on the menu. But don't worry; sweet teeth can still be satiated with venti mocha frappucinos or chocolate chip muffins.