How can I tell the difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee beans?

Arabica and Robusta are two main types of coffee beans that differ in taste, caffeine content, growing conditions, bean shape, acidity, and price. Coffee lovers usually prefer one or the other based on their taste preferences. This was reported by SSPDaily.

News Bytes writes: "Some coffee blends also include both types to achieve the desired flavor balance. Let's see how they differ from each other depending on certain factors."

Flavor differences

Arabica beans are known for their milder, more delicate and complex flavor profile. They often contain floral, fruity and sour notes, making them popular among coffee connoisseurs.

Robusta beans, on the other hand, have a stronger, bitter flavor with nutty or woody notes. Therefore, Robusta is considered a less refined variety compared to Arabica.

Different growing conditions

Arabica coffee trees are more delicate and require special conditions for normal growth. They are grown at high altitudes at low temperatures. These plants are also more vulnerable to pests and diseases.

Robusta coffee trees are hardy and not afraid of high temperatures, which simplifies the process of growing them, but affects the delicacy of the taste.

Caffeine content and acidity

Robusta beans contain more caffeine (sometimes twice as much!) than Arabica beans. This results in a stronger and more bitter taste of robusta.

Unlike robusta, arabica has a bright acidity and a complex flavor profile.

Appearance and price

Arabica beans are distinguished by their oval shape with a sinuous fold on one side, while Robusta beans are rounder and smaller. The difference in the shape of these beans can affect the size of the grind and the brewing process.

Arabica is usually more expensive than Robusta because of its more pleasant flavor and difficulty in growing.