Coffee Myths Busted: Separating Coffee Fact from Fiction

Coffee is more than just a drink; for many of us, it’s a daily ritual, a source of comfort, and sometimes, a much-needed boost to survive the day. But with coffee’s popularity comes a lot of myths and half-truths that can leave even the most enthusiastic coffee drinker confused. Let’s debunk some of the most common misconceptions about coffee, so you can sip your brew with confidence.

6 Coffee Myths Busted

Myth 1: Robusta Coffee is Low Quality

If you’ve heard that robusta coffee is inferior or tastes terrible, you’re not alone. Some say it’s bitter; others say it’s sour. The truth? It depends on the roast and the quality of the beans.

Robusta does naturally contain more caffeine and chlorogenic acid, which give it a more bitter edge compared to arabica. It also has less sugar, which can affect its flavor profile. However, this doesn’t mean all robusta is bad.

High-quality robusta can add body and crema to an espresso, providing a richer and more foamy texture. It also delivers a stronger caffeine kick, making it a popular choice for those needing a real pick-me-up. Plus, robusta plants are more resilient, grow faster, and thrive at lower altitudes, which lowers production costs. So, a lower price doesn’t necessarily mean lower quality—it could just mean it’s easier to grow.

Myth 2: Over-Roasted Coffee is Bad Coffee

What is “over-roasted” coffee, anyway? Coffee beans are roasted to different levels—light, medium, and dark—each with its unique flavor characteristics.

Lighter roasts tend to be more acidic and fruity, while darker roasts are more bitter and bold. Neither is wrong; it all comes down to personal preference.

If you prefer a milder, more acidic coffee, go for a light roast. If you enjoy a strong, robust flavor, a dark roast might be your perfect match. The key is finding what you like—there’s no such thing as “too roasted” if it suits your taste.

Myth 3: Ristretto Has More Caffeine Than Espresso

“Wow, that ristretto is strong!” We’ve all thought it. Ristretto, a short shot of espresso, is indeed bold and intense in flavor. But does it pack more caffeine? Surprisingly, no.

Caffeine extraction begins around the 11-second mark during brewing. Since a ristretto shot is pulled quickly, it actually contains less caffeine than a standard espresso. The strong taste is a result of the concentrated flavors, not an extra caffeine hit.

Myth 4: The Best Espresso Machines Have 15 Bars of Pressure

Espresso machine shopping can be overwhelming, especially with brands boasting about their 15 or even 17-bar pressure systems. More bars must mean better coffee, right? Not quite.

Professional baristas will tell you that the ideal pressure for espresso is around 9 bars. Home machines often advertise higher pressure because they use vibration pumps that require an overpressure filter to regulate flow. The result? Faster extraction and sometimes a less flavorful shot.

So, don’t be dazzled by high bar numbers. Focus instead on the machine’s overall quality and your brewing technique.

Myth 5: Exactly 7 Grams of Coffee is Needed for Espresso

The classic standard for a single espresso is 7 grams of coffee. But coffee brewing isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation.

The amount you need depends on the roast level. Darker roasts tend to require less coffee because they extract more quickly, while lighter roasts may need more grounds to achieve the right flavor.

As a general guide:

• Dark roast: 7-8 grams

• Medium roast: 8-9 grams

• Light roast: 9-10 grams

At home, you might need to use an extra gram or two because home machines often operate at higher pressures.

Myth 6: Decaf Coffee is the Healthier Option

Choosing decaf because you think it’s healthier? The reality is a bit more complex. Decaffeination is a detailed process that can alter the coffee’s natural characteristics.

There are different methods used to remove caffeine, including:

• Chemical solvents like triglycerides

• Water processing

• Carbon dioxide processing

While modern decaf processes are generally safe, it’s always a good idea to check how your decaf coffee is processed if you’re health-conscious.

Final Sip

Coffee is a wonderful and versatile beverage, but there are plenty of myths that can cloud our understanding. Whether you enjoy robusta or arabica, ristretto or espresso, dark roast or light roast—the best coffee is the one you love.

So, brew what makes you happy and don’t let the coffee snobs (or the marketing buzzwords) tell you otherwise!