There are more than 100 different species of coffee. Beyond that, you can have different roasts, blends, countries of origin, and more. All of this might sound overwhelming when you’re trying to pick your coffee. But there are two primary coffee beans that you’ll find: Arabica and Robusta.
Today, we’ll talk about some of the differences between Arabica and Robusta coffees and why you’ll find more Arabica coffee. If you’re looking for wholesale coffee beans, make sure you choose Kaldi Gourmet Coffee Roasters and browse our selection of Arabica coffee beans!
Shape
One easy way to tell the difference between an Arabica and Robusta bean is by the shape. Robusta beans are more circular, while Arabica beans tend to be more oval.
Sugar Content
When it comes to natural sugars, Arabica beans have also double the amount of sugar when compared with Robusta coffee. In addition, you’ll find 60% more lipids in Arabica coffee.
Taste
Robusta is known for its bitter taste, while Arabica beans are known for their fruitier flavor. This could partly be due to the higher sugar content and acidity levels found in Arabica coffee beans.
Caffeine Level
Robusta coffee has a higher caffeine content than Arabica. In fact, with up to 80% more caffeine, Robusta beans are often used to make instant coffee.
Cost
Robusta coffee beans are half the cost of Arabica beans. Arabica beans are seen as superior to Robusta beans. Part of that is due to the fact that Robusta coffees produce higher yields and are easier to produce.
Cultivation & Environmental Conditions
Since the Arabica bean is known for its sweeter taste, it makes up over 75% of the world’s coffee production with the remaining 25% being Robusta coffee beans. Right now, Brazil produces the most Arabica coffee beans while Vietnam produces the most Robusta beans.
In addition, Robusta coffee shrubs grow taller than Arabica shrubs. They can grow in climates with warmer temperatures and more rainfall, making them more tolerant and easier to grow. When it comes to yield, Arabica coffee beans produce less coffee per hectare than Robusta, further adding to the cost of Arabica beans.
How the Beans Are Used
Arabica and Robusta beans are used differently because they have different taste and caffeine contents. If you’re drinking instant coffee, it’s probably all Robusta coffee. Espresso blends can also contain Robusta beans, specifically Italian-style blends. Otherwise, most gourmet coffee blends and different countries of origin will be Arabica.
Order Wholesale Coffee Beans Today
Next time you look at coffee beans, look at the bean shape and see if you can tell the difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee!
At Kaldi Gourmet Coffee Roasters, we have a wide selection of Arabica coffee to choose from. Shop our wholesale coffee beans, pick your blend, choose your roast type, and we’ll freshly roast your beans to ensure that you’re getting the best coffee for your home or business.
