Which Country Drinks the Most Coffee in the World?
It’s no surprise that coffee is a global favorite, but what country drinks the most of it? The answer might surprise many. According to the International Coffee Organization (ICO), the average person in Finland drinks the most coffee of any country in the world, with a staggering 12 kg of coffee per capita per year.
Before Finland topped the list, in 2018 the United States held the number one spot for coffee consumption with a reported annual average of 9.25 kg per capita. However, according to the latest ICO data, the United States now ranks third amongst top consumers worldwide, behind Finland and Norway.
Conflicting data exists on the exact amount of coffee that’s consumed. For example, the World Atlas report estimates the average per capita in Finland to be 5.87 kg yearly, while the ICO data suggests 12 kg. Similarly, the World Bank report estimates the average per capita in the United States to be closer to 4.74 kg.
It’s possible the different statistics attribute to a lack of clear-cut criteria for measuring coffee consumption and the data sources don’t agree on how the coffee is being measured. Some will measure the frequency of coffee with espresso drinks and others with filter coffee, and some may choose to measure the quantity of beans imported or brewed.
Regardless of the conflicting statistics, one thing is certain – on average, many countries now consume far more coffee annually than in the past. In the early 2000s, the average per capita globally was just 1 kg. Data from the United Kingdom shows that their coffee consumption has increased threefold since then.
The increasing demand for coffee globally has led to a growth in coffee culture, café fashion, and coffee art. Different countries have their own distinct coffee culture and a favorite way to prepare coffee. For instance, espresso and cappuccino are favored in Italy, and filter coffee is served in most Scandinavian countries.
Specialty Coffee
Many coffee drinkers prefer specialty coffee, which is made with freshly roasted and ethically sourced coffee beans. Specialty coffee has a distinct flavor profile, usually described as sweet and with bouquets of all kinds of fruit, caramel, and nuts. People are now more willing to pay more for specialty beans for that unique, distinct flavor.
The specialty coffee industry is also playing an important role in sustainability, considering the potential effects of climate change on coffee-producing regions worldwide. For example, some coffee companies are now offering direct trade coffee, which would allow the farmers to receive a larger share of the profits from their coffee sales.
Sustainability is notably becoming more popular and driven more by consumer demand. The specialty coffee trend continues to spread to more countries and, as a result, coffee farmers and companies are looking towards more sustainable practices, such as training coffee farmers in new agronomic practices and offering better prices for quality beans.
The specialty coffee industry isn’t just transforming coffee, it’s also transforming coffee culture, roasting methods, and the supply chain. Coffee farmers and baristas alike are continually innovating the industry and searching for better ways to brew the perfect cup of joe.
Brewing Methods
Coffee consumption varies according to the type of brewing method used. For example, the French press offers a rich and strong flavor, and the paper filter method offers a cleaner taste. Cold brew offers more subtle notes. Different brewing methods result in very different tastes, so it’s no wonder that each country has its own unique style of coffee.
Some countries prefer more intense, full-bodied coffee, while others opt for more light and fragrant options. Nordic countries, for example, like their coffee extra strong and concentrated, with a rich, thick texture. In the United States and Canada, Americans favor light roasted coffee with smooth texture.
The industry also needs water to keep up its production. Some regions have access to soft water, while others have hard or salty water. The quality of the water used to make coffee can have an impact on its flavor, so the method of brewing and the type of water being used are important consideration when selecting a brand of coffee.
Coffee Grades
The quality and taste of coffee also depends on the sourcing and roasting of the beans. Coffee producers can grade their beans from light- to dark-roast. Different countries have different preference in terms of grade, but it is generally accepted that the higher the quality bean, the better the taste of the coffee.
Light roast coffees are typically more aromatic and have a more acidic flavor. This type of coffee is popular in the United States. On the other hand, dark roast coffees are known for their intense flavor and are typically less acidic. These are popular in Scandinavian countries.
Roasters also have different preferences when it comes to the amount of caffeine used in their blends. Coffee drinkers can choose from a variety of different coffees, from high-caffeine to low-caffeine options, and everything in between.
Organic Coffee
Organic coffee has also become increasingly popular over the years, particularly in the U.S. The benefits of organic coffee include reduced exposure to chemicals and improved environmental protection. Organic coffees are often produced in smaller batches and can be more expensive, but the taste of the coffee can be more intense and unique.
Coffee productions also vary depending on the location, due to different climates and growing conditions. Ethiopia is a popular source of organic coffee, and the city of Harar is known for its mild, chocolatey flavor. Colombia is another popular country of origin, and its coffees are known for their high-acidity.
Organic coffee is relatively new in the market and producers are still finding ways to create better tasting coffee while being conscious of the environment.
