What is the difference between Robusta and Arabica coffee beans?
Of the many coffee beans cultivated today, there are two main species: Coffea arabica, known as Arabica, and Coffea canephora, known as Robusta. Robusta, as the name indicates, is more robust that the Arabica bean, but produces an inferior tasting beverage with a higher caffeine content. The taste range of the Robusta is fairly narrow with often with harsh overtones. Robusta beans are cheaper and easier to grow and are typically found in jars of instant coffee rather that at cafés. Arabica coffee accounts for 75 to 80% of the world’s production and produces a better tasting cup of coffee. In general, the best coffees are all Arabicas and the highest quality blends are pure Arabica blends. Arabica beans have much wider taste range, but it is important to remember the coffees that use them are not all equal in quality.
