For many years, coffee connoisseurs have been debating whether drinking decaf coffee is like drinking water. The growing trend of convenience and health have seen many people replacing their regular coffee with decaf – but what exactly are they missing out on?
One common sentiment among those who have tried decaf is that it tastes like water. A survey of 200 coffee drinkers found that 75% of respondents agreed that decaf tastes like water. But the remaining 25% disagreed – and experts say that taste isn’t the only factor that makes decaf different.
Firstly, decaf coffee is not 100% free from caffeine. While the amount is usually a miniscule amount compared to normal coffee beans, it still contains enough caffeine to provide a subtle energy boost. For example, a large cup of decaf coffee contains about 2-8mg of caffeine, whereas a regular cup can contain up to 95mg – more than ten times more than decaf.
Additionally, decaf does not retain the same flavour and complexity of regular coffee. The flavour of coffee beans is the product of their origin – and more than half a dozen factors including altitude, soil type, climate and the process used to remove the caffeine.Regular coffee beans go through a roasting process that brings out the unique flavour, while decaf coffee beans require additional processes to completely remove the caffeine.
The implications of this difference extend to coffee-making as well. The perceived flavour of decaf can actually be enhanced with salt and spices, while regular coffee tastes best when kept pure and simple. In the same vein, some coffee connoisseurs have even suggested adding flavors and syrups to decaf coffee to add depth and complexity.
Although some may prefer their decaf to be as much like regular coffee as possible, one cannot discount the additional benefits it has for those looking for healthier alternatives. Studies have found that decaf drinkers have reduced levels of bad cholesterol, better digestion and more controlled weight gain.
The Environmental Impact
The replacement of regular coffee with decaf can have a significant environmental impact. Not only are decaf beans free from the adverse effects of caffeine production – the process of decaffeinating beans does not release any excess heat or carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. In fact, some studies have found that the production of decaf coffee is even more ecological as it requires less water, fewer chemicals and fewer by-products of production.
Furthermore, decaf production is an efficient way of reducing waste. Many of the regular coffee that is produced can be decaffeinated and used to produce decaf coffee, meaning that what would otherwise have been discarded can now be repurposed and used in decaf beverages.
Finally, drinking decaf can help to reduce the impact of caffeine on the body. Caffeine is a stimulant that can have adverse affects on the body when consumed in large quantities – and decaf offers a way to reduce this risk. As highlighted earlier, decaf contains a much lower level of caffeine than regular coffee and therefore can reduce the potential risk and associated symptoms of excessive caffeine intake.
The Health Benefits
Coffee has been found to contain many beneficial compounds that can improve overall health. As well as reducing the risk of certain diseases, coffee also contains many antioxidants that can boost the immune system – and decaf still contains these beneficial compounds.
Additionally, recent research has shown that drinking decaf is linked to several health benefits. For example, drinking decaf has been associated with a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes – and regular decaf drinkers have even been found to have a lower risk of certain types of cancers.
In terms of cognitive health, coffee – and therefore decaf coffee – has been linked to improved focus and better mood, although these benefits can vary depending on the individual. As a result, decaf coffee can be a great substitute for regular coffee for those looking for a milder, more health-focused drink.
Last but not least, decaf can offer a way to reduce insomnia. Caffeine – even at low doses – can affect sleep patterns, making it difficult to truly relax. Decaffeinated coffee can offer a way to still enjoy the flavour of coffee without the adverse effects of caffeine on s leep quality.
The Cost
Despite all its benefits, decaffeinated coffee can often be more expensive than regular coffee. This is due to both the additional processes needed to achieve decaf and the fact that it is deemed to be a higher-end product.
Additionally, many independent coffee shops have double the price – or more – for a decaf cup compared to a regular cup. This is likely due to a misunderstanding of what decaf is and the mark-up that is applied to the added instore and an additional convenience.
However, this does not necessarily mean that decaf drinkers have to pay over the odds for their coffee. There are many ways to save money when shopping for decaffeinated coffee beans – from searching for decaffeinated blends to looking for always-on deals.
Ultimately, decaf drinking has several different benefits for both regular coffee drinkers and those looking for a healthier alternative. And while it may cost more, decaf offers a tasty, fresher and ultimately more eco-friendly way to enjoy coffee.
The Non-Coffee Drinkers
Although decaf has traditionally been aimed at coffee drinkers, it has become increasingly popular among those who do not consume regular coffee. This includes young children as well as those who have a sensitivity to caffeine – such as pregnant women or those on certain medications.
Furthermore, decaf is often used in places such as hospitals or offices where caffeine is banned — but there is still a need for hot drinks such as coffee and tea. Decaffeinated drinks offer a great alternative for these environments, as it retains a similar taste and aroma to regular coffee but without any of the unwanted stimulants.
Finally, decaf has also been used in the food industry. For example, many restaurants offer decaf coffees as a way to provide a drink that still retains a “coffee taste” but without the stimulating effects of caffeine.
The Alternatives
As already mentioned, decaf is not the only alternative to regular coffee when it comes to reducing the amount of caffeine in one’s diet. There are several different types of beverages that can be consumed in order to enjoy the flavour of coffee without the stimulating effects.
Firstly, there are a number of herbal teas that have a similar flavour to coffee but without any of the stimulating effects. Many of these have additional health benefits and can be prepared to retain the same level of flavour as regular coffee.
Other alternatives include chicory coffee and yerba mate. Chicory coffee is made from steeping dried chicory roots in boiling water. This can give the drink a similar colour and aftertaste to regular coffee, but without the stimulating effects of caffeine. Yerba mate, meanwhile, is made from a type of holly leaf and is said to contain an array of beneficial compounds. It also has a surprisingly similar taste to coffee and has become increasingly popular in recent years.
Finally, there are numerous coffee substitutions available for those looking for a caffeine-free alternative. These herbal beverages usually contain a blend of natural ingredients – such as grains, nuts and spices – that offer a similar taste and aroma as coffee, but without any of the unwanted stimulants.
The Pros and Cons
Ultimately, it is clear that all coffee drinkers should consider the pros and cons of decaffeinated coffee before making the switch. While it has numerous health, environmental and practical benefits, decaf may still not be the right choice for everyone.
For some, the added cost or the lack of the stimulating effects of regular coffee may put them off. Additionally, the additional processes and time needed to produce decaf coffee can make it less convenient than regular coffee.
Furthermore, it is important to remember that decaffeinated coffee still contains a small amount of caffeine. Therefore, those with serious sensitivities may require additional measures if they are to truly eliminate any traces of caffeine from their diet.
Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether or not decaffeinated coffee is like drinking water. It all comes down to personal preference and understanding the pros and cons of the product. While decaf may not be the perfect substitute for regular coffee, it is certainly a healthier, more ethical and more efficient alternative – one that will certainly continue to grow in popularity.
