8 Coffee Facts You Didn't Know: From History to Prices

8 Fascinating Coffee Facts You Probably Didn't Know

Coffee is a beloved beverage enjoyed by millions worldwide. It's more than just a morning pick-me-up; it's a global phenomenon with a rich history and fascinating trivia. Let's delve into 8 intriguing coffee facts you probably didn't know.

1. Espresso: Not About Speed

The word "espresso" originates from the Latin phrase "to press out", referring to the method of extraction, not speed. It's a misconception that espresso is about speed. In reality, it's about pressure, using a machine to force hot water through finely-ground coffee beans to produce a concentrated shot of coffee.

2. Coffee's Ban in England

In the 17th century, coffee became incredibly popular in England. However, King Charles II, concerned about the influence of coffee houses, closed them all in 1675. He believed they were detrimental to the kingdom, but public outcry eventually led to their reopening.

3. Brazil: The Coffee King

Brazil dominates the global coffee market, producing about 40% of the world's coffee supply. This equates to approximately 2.6 million metric tons of coffee annually. The country's ideal climate and vast plantations make it a major player in the coffee industry.

4. Finland: A Nation of Coffee Lovers

Finland has a deep-rooted coffee culture, with an average annual coffee consumption of 12 kilograms per person in 2022. Coffee is a vital part of daily life in Finland, enjoyed throughout the day in various forms. This high consumption rate highlights the country's passion for coffee.

5. Decaf Coffee: Not Completely Caffeine-Free

While the name suggests complete caffeine removal, decaffeinated coffee still contains small amounts of caffeine. The caffeine content varies but typically ranges from 2 to 12 milligrams per serving, significantly lower than regular coffee.

6. Mocha Coffee: From Yemen to the World

The delightful blend of coffee and chocolate we know as Mocha has its roots in Yemen. Al Moka, or Mocha, served as a significant coffee trading port in the 15th century. Today's Mocha coffee draws inspiration from Bicerin, a popular Italian beverage.

7. Caffè Sospeso: An Italian Coffee Tradition

In Naples, Italy, a unique tradition called "caffè sospeso" exists. A person orders two coffees, consumes one, and pays for both. The second coffee is then gifted to another customer free of charge. This tradition emerged in the late 19th century and flourished during World War II, reflecting a sense of community and generosity.

8. The World's Most Expensive Coffee: From Elephant Dung!

While civet coffee is famous for its unique flavor and high price, elephant dung coffee, also known as "black ivory", takes the title of the most expensive and rarest coffee in the world. Produced in southern Thailand, it commands an exorbitant price, starting at $2,000 per kilogram. This expensive coffee is a result of elephants' digestive process, which alters the coffee beans, giving them a distinctive flavor and aroma.