Difference Between Arabica and Robusta Coffee

Happy Wednesday Friends! Today we're going to talk about the two most popular coffee species in the world: Arabica and Robusta. Whether you prefer your coffee black or with cream and sugar, the species of coffee you choose can have a significant impact on your overall coffee experience.

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, and it all starts with the coffee plant. The National Coffee Association estimate that there are anywhere from 25 to 100 species of coffee plants (kind of a wide range but let’s go with it), but the two most common are Arabica and Robusta. These two species differ in their taste, growing conditions, and price, among other things.

Let's start with taste, shall we? Arabica coffee has a smoother, more delicate flavor with a slightly acidic taste. It's like drinking a fine wine, but in coffee form. Robusta, on the other hand, has a potent, more vigorous flavor, with a nutty, earthy, or chocolaty taste. It's like a punch in the face, but in a good way.

But taste isn't the only thing that sets these two apart, there is a major difference in caffeine between the two species. Robusta has almost twice as much caffeine as Arabica, with an average caffeine content of 2.7% compared to Arabica's 1.5%. This is due to the fact that Robusta plants grow at lower altitudes and in warmer climates, which allows them to produce more caffeine as a natural defense against insects. Interesting don’t you think?

Now, let's talk growing conditions. Arabica plants require a higher altitude to grow, between 2,000 and 6,000 feet above sea level, with a temperature range of 60-70°F. They also require a significant amount of rainfall, with an annual rainfall of 60-100 inches. Robusta plants, on the other hand, can grow at lower altitudes, between sea level and 2,000 feet, with a temperature range of 75-85°F. They require less rainfall than Arabica, with an annual rainfall of 60-80 inches. Fun fact, Vietnam is the leading producer of Robusta coffee globally. Over 90% of the coffee grown and produced in Vietnam is of the Robusta variety.

Lastly, we have production and price. Arabica coffee is the most widely produced coffee in the world, accounting for around 60% of the total coffee production. Robusta coffee, on the other hand, accounts for around 40% of the total coffee production. However, Robusta is much cheaper than Arabica due to what some, mainly rude people, would say is “inferior” taste and lower demand. I personally don’t find Robusta to have an “inferior” taste. It’s all about how you roast that bean, and I’ve had some amazing Robusta coffee. So, suck on that nerds.

There you have it folks. Arabica and Robusta coffee may look similar, but they're very different in taste, caffeine content, growing conditions, and price. Now go out there and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee, whatever species you choose. And remember, stay curious, stay caffeinated, and stay awesome.