I think Bar Shattya’s point is right in line with what bpt was saying in his OP.
My normal habit is to buy Starbucks “Pike Place” whole beans (they come in a 1lb sealed bag with an OU) and grind and brew my own coffee at home in the morning with my own equipment. It’s much cheaper that way, and tastes just as good. The thing is, when you buy a bag of beans, they offer you a free cup of coffee. In the past, I’ve always taken them up on it. After reading the cRc’s “Guide to Starbuck’s Beverages”, however, I had to think. What do I do when it’s time to buy more beans? Do I get the free coffee or say no thanks?
Yes there’s debate back and forth about the actual status of the coffee, and I found myself mentally making justifications… it must be OK! But honestly, once I removed the simple fact that I like getting good tasting, free, convenient Starbucks coffee from the equation, I was left with one question: Am I OK with buying and drinking something that has a serious question on its kashrus status? No, I’m not.
So the solution is simple. Get the beans and say “no thanks” to the free coffee, or buy the beans from a Starbucks “kiosk” if I really want the free coffee. Just a touch more effort to stay totally inside my limits. It’s amazing how such a small thing can be such a big battle.