Discover Arabica and Robusta Coffee Beans differences from its taste and caffeine content. Learn about it’s price, origin and uses which suits for you.
Introduction
When you choose for a coffee, you’ll almost always come across two names: Arabica and Robusta. But exactly what does these two name means? 800 to 1600 meter above sea level grown coffee is basically called Arabica Coffee whereas up to 800 meter sea level grown coffee which does not require high elevations is know as Robusta Coffee. Arabica grows at high altitude whereas Robusta grows at low altitudes. Arabica Coffee is known for its sweet, aromatic and fruity flavors whereas Robusta Coffee is known for its bitter flavor. Majority of coffee production area in Nepal grows in the altitude from 800 m to 1600 meters which is considered good for coffee production.
Here are the 10 Key Differences Between Arabica and Robusta.
| Basis | Arabica | Robusta |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Discovered in Ethiopia and later spread to Yemen. | Originated in Congo and Uganda. |
| Area of Cultivation | Grows at 800m-1600m, requires cooler climates. | Grows at 200m-800m, requires hotter climates. |
| Flavor Profile | Floral, Fruity, Sweet and Smooth. | Strong, Bold, Earthy and Bitter. |
| Shape & Size | Oval, Larger and Curved Crease | Round, Smaller and Straight Crease |
| Caffeine Content | Around 1.2%-1.5% | Around 2.2%-2.7% |
| Price | Expensive | Cheaper |
| Market Share | 60-70% of World Coffee | 30-40% especially in Instant Coffee |
| Challenges | Vulnerable to Pests and Climate Change | Hardy and Resilient |
| Uses | Specialty Coffee, Cold Brew and Pour-over. | Instant Coffee, Espresso Blends and Strong Traditional Brews. |
| Health Impact | Low Caffeine and Smooth Taste. | More Antioxidants and High Caffeine. |
Arabica and Robusta Popular Coffee Blends
Arabica and Robusta coffee beans are mostly combine to give the strength and to balance it’s taste. For example, Italian espresso blends and Vietnamese coffee.
- Italian espresso blends- It often mixes Arabica beans for it’s smooth and aroma whereas it mix Robusta beans for it’s high caffeine and for rich flavor.
- Vietnamese coffee- It relies heavily on Robusta beans for it’s dark, strong and bitter profile.
Arabica and Robusta Consumer Preferences
Between Arabica and Robusta Coffee Beans consumers have different preferences around the world. Those who drinks Specialty coffee beans prefer Arabica Beans whereas who drinks Instant coffee mostly prefer Robusta beans. Arabica beans are popular for it’s smooth and aroma while Robusta beans are more popular for it’s strong and instant coffee. Nowadays, espresso and cold brew are gaining more popularity around the world which blends both beans. It is done to offer the ideal mix of strength, aroma and flavor.
Arabica and Robusta in Nepal
In Nepal, Arabica coffee grows very well. It grows between 1000 to 1650 meters above sea level. The cool climate and the fertile soil contribute to high quality Arabica coffee with some distinct flavor and fruity notes. The main Coffee growing regions in Nepal are Syangja, Gulmi, Palpa, Nuwakot, Lamjung, Kaski and Dhading. These hills are best land for growing Arabica Beans. Arabica Coffee is smooth, floral scent and has variety of flavors which include fruity, toffee and chocolate. To compete in the Specialty Coffee market worldwide Nepali Arabica Coffee Beans helps to attract International buyers. Robusta Coffee grows in lower altitude regions which has it’s strong and bitter profile.
Future Trends
Both Arabica and Robusta beans is influenced by the climate change and global demand. Production may be vulnerable because the Arabica beans are more sensitive to temperature. Robusta beans are consistent even in the harsh conditions. Countries like Nepal, Ethiopia and Colombia has the rising demand for it’s organic farming of Arabica beans. To capitalize the International market Nepal should more focus on more areas to produce the quality Arabica beans. Government and Cooperatives supports plays the vital role to compete in the International market.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Arabica and Robusta Coffee Beans it totally depends upon whether you want a smooth or bitter, refined or bold. In the Coffee World both Arabica and Robusta Coffee Beans plays a vital role. Arabica is favored for its flavor, aroma and fruity whereas Robusta is flavored for its strength and affordability. Arabica Coffee Beans contain less caffeine and Robusta Coffee Beans contain High caffeine.
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