Coffee Fun Facts
Chris Isidore
| 16-01-2025
· Food Team
Coffee stands as one of the most beloved drinks globally, with billions of cups consumed annually.
Since this aromatic beverage holds a special place in our hearts, it's only fitting to dive into some fascinating tidbits about it. Here’s a list of intriguing coffee facts sure to delight any coffee enthusiast.
Coffee’s history goes way back
Coffee’s origins can be traced back to 800 A.D., when goat herders in Ethiopia made an unusual discovery. They noticed their goats becoming lively after munching on a peculiar plant. Intrigued, the herders tried it themselves and experienced a burst of energy. Thus, coffee’s journey began.
Coffee is technically a fruit
Though referred to as a “bean,” coffee is, in fact, a fruit. These so-called beans are nestled inside a berry known as a coffee cherry, which grows on shrubs.
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Beethoven had a thing for coffee
The legendary composer Ludwig van Beethoven was known for his coffee obsession. He insisted on using exactly 60 beans per cup, meticulously counting them to achieve the perfect brew.
Brazil leads the world in coffee production
Brazil has long held the title of the world’s largest coffee producer, contributing about a third of the global coffee supply. Vietnam and Colombia follow close behind in this caffeinated race.
Finland drinks the most coffee
While Brazil grows the most coffee, Finland takes the crown for consumption. The average Finnish person drinks an impressive 12 kilograms of coffee annually, equating to around 1,680 cups per year.
Coffee helped Brazil participate in the Olympics
In 1932, Brazil faced financial struggles that made it difficult to send athletes to the Olympics. To fund the trip, the government loaded a ship with coffee beans and sold them en route to California.
Coffee wasn’t always a beverage
Long before coffee was brewed, it was consumed as a food. In East Africa, tribes ground coffee berries and mixed them with animal , creating an early form of energy snack.
There are two main coffee bean varieties
Coffee lovers often enjoy one of two main bean types: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica offers a smoother, less acidic flavor, while Robusta is known for its bold, bitter taste.
Decaf isn’t completely caffeine-free
For coffee to qualify as decaffeinated, it must contain less than 0.3% caffeine. So, even decaf drinkers still get a tiny caffeine kick.
Caffeine from decaf has surprising uses
The caffeine extracted during the decaffeination process doesn’t go to waste. It’s often sold to companies that make soft drinks or pharmaceuticals.
The first instant coffee was a breakthrough
Instant coffee owes its success to years of experimentation. In 1929, scientists developed a solution for Brazil’s surplus coffee, leading to the creation of the first instant coffee blends.
Coffee faced bans in history
Surprisingly, coffee hasn’t always been universally adored. In the 18th century, some governments banned it, fearing it encouraged rebellious thinking. In Sweden, even coffee-related items like cups and saucers were outlawed in 1746!
Coffee is more than just a morning pick-me-up; it’s a drink with a vibrant history and fascinating stories. So, the next time you enjoy a cup of coffee, remember these fun facts that make your brew even more special!
7 Facts About Coffee You Probably Didn’t Know
Video by BRIGHT SIDE