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Did you know that exports of Arabica coffee totalled 84.68 million bags according to the International Coffee Organisation, whereas Robusta exports came to a total of 52.60 million bags?
Although there are over 120 types of coffee trees grown around the world, only two of these trees are grown commercially and at scale.
Arabica and Robusta coffee are two of the most common types of coffee beans, and they differ in many ways. But, what exactly are the differences between Arabica and Robusta coffee? That’s what we will be exploring in this blog. Keep reading to find out more!
Arabica coffee arrived in Arabia in the 7th century, which is where it got its name, ‘Arabica coffee.’ These beans are delicate and require specific growing conditions. This coffee is grown in high-altitude regions, such as:
Arabica is the most popular type of coffee bean in the world, making up 60% of the world's coffee production. These coffee beans usually have a smoother, sweeter flavour with notes of fruit, chocolate, caramel, and nuts
Arabica coffee requires a hot and humid environment with a temperature of 15–24 degrees Celsius during cultivation. It is high in antioxidants and has a smooth, complex taste and floral aroma. This coffee is known for its sweet flavour profile with notes of fruit, chocolate, and berry aromas.
The taste of Arabica coffee varies depending on:
Proper roasting and brewing are crucial. Over-roasting can make the coffee bitter, burnt, or oily, while over-brewing can release chemicals that result in a bitter and unpleasant taste. To maintain flavour and aroma, Arabica coffee should be brewed for 5-10 minutes.
Robusta coffee is made from the seeds of the Coffea Canephora plant. It is the second most popular type of coffee in the world, accounting for 40% of global coffee production. This type of coffee is mostly used for making espressos and is grown primarily in tropical regions of Asia and Africa.
Robusta coffee is grown in countries such as:
Robusta coffee is less expensive and easier to produce, with Vietnam being the largest producer. It offers a wide range of health benefits and is high in antioxidants.
Robusta coffee typically has a strong, bitter, and earthy taste with notes of dark chocolate and nuts. It often leaves a peanutty aftertaste that some people enjoy, while others may find it off-putting.
Just like Arabica coffee, Robusta's taste depends on:
Now that you have a better understanding of Arabica and Robusta coffee, let's explore the differences:
| Arabica Coffee | Robusta Coffee |
|---|---|
| More expensive | Less expensive |
| More acidic | Less acidic |
| Harder to grow (requires specific environmental conditions) | Easier to grow and more resilient to pests |
| Lower caffeine content (1.5%) | Higher caffeine content (2.7%) |
| Smoother, fruity, and sweeter flavours | Stronger, bitter, and nutty flavours |
If you enjoy coffee with notes of berries or citrus, then Arabica coffee is the coffee for you. However, if you prefer a slightly nuttier coffee with notes of dark chocolate, then Robusta is the coffee for you!
Here at Crosby Coffee, we offer a wide range of coffee beans, including Arabica coffee. We specialise in Arabica coffee, known for its smooth, sweet flavour profile that includes notes of fruit, chocolate, caramel, and nuts.
We offer different types of Arabica coffee using various processing methods. For example, our Trio Blend combines natural Brazilian, washed Ugandan, and washed Colombian coffees to create a unique flavour profile.
Contact us to find out more about our Arabica coffee selection. We look forward to hearing from you!
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