Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in the world, enjoyed by billions of people daily. Beyond being a source of energy and comfort, coffee holds a fascinating history and a collection of intriguing facts that many may not know.
In this article, you’ll discover 10 surprising facts about coffee that will deepen your appreciation for this beloved drink.
1. Coffee Was Discovered by Goats
According to legend, coffee was discovered by a goat herder named Kaldi in Ethiopia around the 9th century. He noticed his goats becoming more energetic and lively after eating the red cherries from a particular plant. Curious, Kaldi tried the fruit himself and experienced a similar boost in energy. This marked the beginning of coffee’s journey as a stimulating beverage.
Bonus fact: These fruits are called coffee cherries, and the beans we use are the seeds inside them.
2. Coffee Is the Second Most Traded Commodity in the World
After oil, coffee ranks as the second most traded commodity globally. It generates billions of dollars annually and supports millions of people, from farmers to baristas.
Interesting fact: Brazil is the largest coffee producer in the world, followed by Vietnam, Colombia, and Indonesia.
3. The Origin of the Word “Coffee”
The word “coffee” originates from the Arabic term qahwa, which means “wine” or “stimulating drink.” As coffee spread to Europe, it became kahve in Turkish, caffè in Italian, and eventually “coffee” in English.
4. Coffee Was Once Banned in Some Countries
Despite its global popularity today, coffee has faced bans in the past. In the mid-16th century, it was outlawed in Mecca because authorities believed it stimulated radical thinking and rebellion. Later, in Italy, some clergy attempted to ban coffee, calling it the “devil’s drink.”
Fun fact: The ban was lifted when Pope Clement VIII tried coffee and declared it too delicious to be banned.
5. Coffee Beans Aren’t Really Beans
Although commonly referred to as “beans,” what we use to brew coffee are actually seeds found inside the fruit of the coffee plant. These seeds are extracted from the coffee cherries and processed before being roasted and ground.
Bonus fact: Other parts of the coffee plant, like the leaves, can also be brewed, but roasted seeds remain the favorite worldwide.
6. The Most Expensive Coffee in the World Is Made by Animals
Kopi Luwak, produced in Indonesia, is the most expensive coffee in the world. It’s made from beans eaten and excreted by civets, small cat-like animals. The digestive process alters the beans, resulting in a rare and unique flavor.
Interesting fact: Other pricey coffees include Black Ivory, made with elephants in Thailand, and Jamaican Blue Mountain, known for its smooth taste.
7. Most Coffee Is Either Arabica or Robusta
While there are over 100 coffee species, two dominate the market: Coffea arabica (Arabica) and Coffea canephora (Robusta). Arabica is prized for its smooth, complex flavors, while Robusta is stronger and has more caffeine.
Bonus fact: Arabica accounts for about 60% of the world’s coffee production.
8. Instant Coffee Was Invented in 1901
Instant coffee, a staple for many households, was first invented in 1901 by a Japanese chemist named Satori Kato in Chicago. The idea was refined in 1938 by Nestlé, leading to the creation of Nescafé.
Interesting fact: During World War II, instant coffee became extremely popular among soldiers due to its convenience.
9. Coffee Can Extend Your Life
Numerous studies suggest that moderate coffee consumption offers health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, caffeine can improve cognitive and physical performance.
Health tip: To maximize coffee’s health benefits, drink it black or with minimal sugar and cream.
10. Espresso Isn’t the Most Caffeinated Coffee
Despite its strong, concentrated flavor, espresso isn’t the coffee with the highest caffeine content. Per volume, espresso has more caffeine, but since it’s served in smaller quantities, a cup of drip coffee typically contains more caffeine overall.
Bonus fact: A large cup of drip coffee can have up to 150 mg of caffeine, while a single shot of espresso contains around 63 mg.
Conclusion
Coffee is much more than a drink; it’s steeped in history, culture, and fascinating facts that make it even more intriguing. From its legendary discovery to its global impact, coffee continues to captivate and connect people across the world.
The next time you brew or order a cup, remember these fun facts and savor the complexity of this incredible beverage that keeps the world running.