Arabica e Robusta: differenze tra gli antagonisti del mondo del caffè - Costiera Caffè & Design

Arabica and Robusta: differences between the antagonists of the world of coffee

Let's make a small list of differences between Arabica and Robusta, the two great antagonists of the world of coffee

Between chemistry and flavours

  • Let's start by noting a first big difference, Arabica coffee has less caffeine than Robusta coffee . In fact, the first blend contains 1.5% caffeine while the other 2.7%. This can be important for people concerned about the negative effects of too much caffeine. Caffeine also has a bitter taste so the mixture with less caffeine is also less bitter.

  • Still on the subject of sweetness, arabica contains almost twice as much sugar as its rival and given that most people prefer sweet flavors to bitter ones, this probably explains why its greater popularity.

  • Arabica contains about 60% more lipids (fats, oils, waxes, some vitamins, hormones…).

  • Arabica coffee has a higher acidity than Robusta which reinforces the fruit, chocolate and nutty flavors typical of this variety. Robusta, on the other hand, has a lower acidity and favors flavors tending towards woody and toasted.

  • Continuing to analyze the flavor, that of the arabica blend appears more pleasant, its flavor is in fact described as rich, with hints of chocolate, nuts, fruit and berries. The other, on the other hand, has a bitter, earthy and chewy taste.

Cultivation and other notes

  • Arabica is more expensive than its antagonist. This happens for two reasons: because it is more difficult to cultivate due to its sensitivity to the environment and because less is produced per hectare. Plus the fact that it tastes better increases the demand for it.

  • Arabica is more fragile, preferring a constant climate (no harsh changes) while Robusta can handle higher temperatures and harsher changes in climate.

  • Arabica also prefers a humid climate over Robusta, which can handle more direct sunlight and more drastic changes in rainfall.

  • Arabica usually grows at higher elevations and takes longer to ripen, which adds to its full flavor. It is also more susceptible to pest damage than Robusta.

  • Arabica beans are shaped and colored differently than Robusta beans. The former is slightly larger with an oval shape while the latter is rounder.

  • The annual production of Arabica is lower than that of Robusta. Per hectare, the Arabica coffee plant produces less per year than the Robusta coffee plant. This makes the Arabica more expensive to grow than its rival.

Arabica and Robusta: which is the best blend?

After such an in-depth analysis, the question is a must, which is the best? Most critics tend to point out that between Arabica and Robusta, Arabica is the best bean. However, if you love a coffee with more caffeine or a more bitter taste, it is likely that you prefer Robusta, in short, try to believe and the choice is yours.

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