Coffee Articles Archives

February 8, 2023February 8, 2023

Utilize Your Used Coffee Grounds in the Garden

Introduction to Coffee Grounds in the Garden

With springtime right around the corner, now is the perfect season to start thinking about your garden. And what better way to do so than by incorporating your used coffee grounds into your gardening routine. As a coffee roasting company, we are always searching for new and innovative ways to promote the many benefits of coffee grounds. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various ways to use coffee grounds in the garden and the benefits they can provide for your plants.

Coffee Grounds as a Soil Amendment

One of the most common uses for coffee grounds in the garden is as a soil amendment. Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, all of which are essential nutrients for plant growth. By adding coffee grounds to your garden soil, you can provide your plants with the nutrients they need to thrive. Additionally, coffee grounds can also improve the structure of the soil, helping it to retain moisture and nutrients.

Coffee Grounds for Composting

Another great way to utilize coffee grounds in the garden is through composting. Coffee grounds are a great addition to a compost pile, providing valuable nitrogen to the mix. This can help to speed up the composting process and produce a rich, nutrient-dense compost that can be used to amend your garden soil. To compost coffee grounds, simply mix them with other organic materials like leaves, grass clippings, and food waste.

Repel Pests with Coffee Grounds

In addition to improving soil health and providing valuable nutrients, coffee grounds can also be used to repel pests in the garden. The strong aroma of coffee is known to repel many common garden pests, including slugs, snails, and ants. To use coffee grounds for pest control, simply sprinkle them around the base of your plants or mix them into the soil. You can also make a strong coffee and use it as a deterrent spray to keep pests away.

Conclusion

In conclusion, coffee grounds can be a valuable addition to your garden, providing important nutrients and improving soil health. Whether you use them as a soil amendment, for composting, or to repel pests, coffee grounds are a versatile and eco-friendly option for your garden. So, the next time you finish a cup of coffee, don’t throw those grounds away – put them to good use in your garden!

January 11, 2023January 16, 2023

The Best Coffee Beans for Espresso: Arabica vs. Robusta

Best Coffee For Espresso

Espresso is a type of coffee that is made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans at high pressure. The result is a concentrated and flavorful shot of coffee that is the foundation for many popular coffee drinks, such as cappuccinos, lattes, and mochas. But what are the best coffee beans for espresso? Let’s take a closer look at the two main types: Arabica and Robusta.

Arabica vs. Robusta: Understanding the Differences

There are two main types of coffee beans: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica beans are known for their sweet, fruity, and complex flavor, as well as their lower acidity and higher sugar content. They are also softer and more delicate, with a lower caffeine content (around 1-1.5% by weight).

Robusta beans, on the other hand, are known for their strong, bold, and earthy flavor, as well as their higher acidity and lower sugar content. They are also harder and more resilient, with a higher caffeine content (around 2-2.7% by weight).

Which is the Best Option for Espresso?

So, which type of coffee beans is the best for espresso? It really depends on your personal preferences and the flavor profile you are trying to achieve. Many people prefer Arabica beans for espresso because of their sweet and complex flavor, while others prefer Robusta beans for their bold and earthy taste.

If you’re looking for a smooth and balanced espresso with a sweet and fruity flavor, we recommend using Arabica beans. Roastiva’s Espresso Blend, for example, is made using only the finest Arabica beans from sustainably-grown and organic sources. To try it for yourself, visit our shop page at https://app.roastiva.com/ and sign in to place an order.

If you prefer a bold and full-bodied espresso with a strong and earthy flavor, we recommend using Robusta beans. Keep in mind that these beans may produce a harsher taste as a result of their growing conditions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best coffee beans for espresso are those that suit your personal preferences and the flavor profile you are trying to achieve. If you prefer a smooth and balanced espresso with a sweet and fruity flavor, we recommend using Arabica beans. If you prefer a bold and full-bodied espresso with a strong and earthy flavor, we recommend using Robusta beans. Roastiva’s Espresso Blend is made using only the finest Arabica beans and is a great option for those looking for a smooth and balanced espresso with a sweet and fruity flavor. To try it for yourself, visit our shop page here and sign in to place an order. Regardless of which type of beans you choose, make sure to use the freshest and highest quality beans for the best espresso experience.

January 9, 2023January 16, 2023

Why Does Coffee Make Me Sleepy?

The Science Behind the Paradox of Caffeine

Have you ever noticed that, despite its reputation as a stimulant, coffee can sometimes make you feel sleepy? If so, you’re not alone. Many people report feeling drowsy after consuming coffee, even though it contains caffeine, a chemical that is known to promote alertness and energy. So what’s going on here? In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind the paradox of caffeine and offer some tips for maximizing the alertness-boosting effects of coffee. We’ll also discuss the inverse effect of caffeine on individuals with ADHD.

Caffeine and Sleepiness

Caffeine is a stimulant that works by inhibiting the action of adenosine, a chemical in the brain that promotes sleepiness. When caffeine blocks adenosine, it can lead to increased alertness and energy. However, caffeine can also have other effects on the body, such as increasing heart rate and blood pressure, which can contribute to feelings of nervousness or anxiety.

The Paradox of Caffeine

So, if caffeine is a stimulant, why does coffee sometimes make people feel sleepy? There are a few potential reasons for this paradox. One theory is that the sleep-inducing effects of caffeine may be more pronounced in people who are sensitive to caffeine or who consume large amounts of it. Additionally, the sleep-promoting effects of adenosine may be more powerful in people who are sleep deprived or have disrupted sleep patterns.

Caffeine and ADHD

While caffeine is generally known to promote alertness and energy, it can have the opposite effect on individuals with ADHD. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, caffeine may be an effective treatment for reducing the symptoms of ADHD in children (Read Study). The study found that caffeine was able to improve attention, concentration, and memory in children with ADHD.

Maximizing the Alertness-Boosting Effects of Coffee

If you find that coffee makes you sleepy, there are a few steps you can take to maximize its alertness-boosting effects:

Limit your intake: It’s generally recommended to limit caffeine consumption to 400 mg per day, which is about 4 cups of coffee.
Drink coffee in moderation: Enjoying a cup or two of coffee per day is not likely to have a significant impact on sleepiness.
Choose high-quality coffee: At Roastiva Coffee Roasters, we source only the finest, sustainably-grown, and organic coffee beans to ensure that you get the most enjoyment out of your cup of coffee without any negative effects on your energy levels. Plus, as a company that values humanitarian efforts, we only source from women-owned plantations and use zero waste packaging. To browse our selection of high-quality coffee and place an order, visit us By Clicking Here.

Conclusion

In conclusion, coffee can make some people feel sleepy despite its caffeine content. This paradox may be due to factors such as caffeine sensitivity, sleep deprivation, or disrupted sleep patterns. Additionally, caffeine can have an inverse effect on individuals with ADHD, improving attention and concentration. By following the tips above and choosing high-quality coffee from a socially and environmentally responsible company like Roastiva, you can maximize the alertness-boosting effects of coffee and enjoy its many benefits.

January 8, 2023January 16, 2023

Who Discovered Coffee?

The History of the World's Most Popular Beverage

At Roastiva, we know that our customers love their daily cup of coffee. But have you ever stopped to wonder about the origins of this popular beverage? Who discovered coffee, and how did it become the world’s most widely consumed drink? In this blog post, we’ll explore the various theories and legends about the discovery of coffee.

The Legend of Kaldi

One of the most famous legends about the discovery of coffee involves a goatherd named Kaldi, who lived in the Ethiopian highlands in the 9th century. According to the legend, Kaldi noticed that his goats became more energetic and playful after eating the berries of a certain shrub. Curious, Kaldi tried the berries himself and found that they had a similar effect on him. He shared his discovery with the local monks, who began to boil the berries to create a drink that kept them alert during long hours of prayer. This legend is supported by historical evidence that coffee plants have been found in the Ethiopian highlands dating back to the 9th century (Read More Here). Ethiopia is still one of the largest producers of coffee today.

The Legend of Sufi Mystics

Another legend attributes the discovery of coffee to Sufi mystics in Yemen. According to this story, the Sufi mystics would chew the coffee beans to help them stay awake during long periods of meditation. They also brewed the beans to create a drink that would give them a boost of energy. The popularity of this beverage quickly spread throughout the Arab world, and coffee soon became a staple in homes and coffeehouses.

The Historical Evidence

While these legends are certainly interesting, there is also historical evidence that supports the idea that coffee was first cultivated and consumed in Ethiopia. Coffee plants have been found in the Ethiopian highlands dating back to the 9th century, and the country is still one of the largest producers of coffee today.

Conclusion

So, who really discovered coffee? It’s difficult to say for sure, as the origins of this beloved beverage are shrouded in legend and myth. However, it is clear that coffee has been enjoyed by people around the world for centuries and has played a significant role in many cultures and societies. Whether you’re a coffee lover or not, the history of coffee is a fascinating and rich subject that is worth exploring.

January 6, 2023January 16, 2023

Can Coffee Cause High Blood Pressure?

The Link Between Coffee and Blood Pressure

As a coffee roasting company, we know that our customers love their daily cup of coffee. But some people may be concerned about the potential negative effects of coffee on their health, particularly when it comes to blood pressure. Can coffee really affect blood pressure? Let’s find out.

What is Blood Pressure?

Before we delve into the relationship between coffee and blood pressure, it’s important to understand what blood pressure is and how it affects the body. Blood pressure is the measure of the force of blood against the walls of the arteries as it is pumped by the heart. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other serious health problems.

Coffee and Blood Pressure

Now, let’s examine the role of coffee in blood pressure regulation. It’s true that caffeine, which is found in coffee, can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure. However, the effects of caffeine on blood pressure vary from person to person and tend to be more pronounced in people who don’t regularly consume caffeine.

But it’s important to note that coffee itself may not be the cause of high blood pressure. A review of studies published in the American Journal of Hypertension found that coffee consumption was not consistently associated with high blood pressure (Read This Study). Other factors, such as genetics, diet, and lifestyle, play a bigger role in blood pressure regulation.

Tips for Enjoying Coffee Without Negative Effects on Blood Pressure

So, can coffee affect blood pressure? The answer is not necessarily. While it’s true that caffeine can temporarily increase blood pressure, the overall impact of coffee on blood pressure is not clear. If you are concerned about your blood pressure, it’s always a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional. In the meantime, here are a few simple steps you can take to enjoy your coffee without negative effects on blood pressure:

Limit your intake: It’s generally recommended to limit caffeine consumption to 400 mg per day, which is about 4 cups of coffee.
Drink coffee in moderation: Enjoying a cup or two of coffee per day is not likely to have a significant impact on blood pressure.
Choose high-quality coffee: Look for coffee that is sustainably sourced and roasted to perfection. This can help you get the most enjoyment out of your cup of coffee without any negative effects on your health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is no clear evidence that coffee causes high blood pressure. As with any food or beverage, it’s important to consume it in moderation and pay attention to how your body reacts to it. If you have any concerns about your coffee consumption, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional.

January 5, 2023January 16, 2023

Can Coffee Stunt Your Growth?

Coffee is a beloved beverage enjoyed by people all around the world, but some may be wondering if it could have any negative effects on their growth. It’s a common myth that coffee stunts growth, but is there any truth to it?

To answer this question, we need to first understand how the human body grows. Growth is primarily determined by genetics, but proper nutrition and adequate sleep also play important roles. When the body doesn’t get enough nutrients or rest, it can affect overall growth and development.

Now, let’s examine the role of coffee in this process. As a stimulant, coffee can have some negative effects on the body if consumed in large amounts. It can cause insomnia, nervousness, and an increased heart rate. It can also lead to digestive problems in some individuals.

However, moderate coffee consumption is not harmful and can actually have some health benefits. Coffee is a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. It can also improve mental alertness and physical performance.

So, to answer the question of whether coffee stunts growth, the answer is no. A study conducted by the Department of Human Biology at the University of Cape Town found that coffee consumption had no effect on growth in adolescents (View This Study). There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that coffee has any impact on height. As with any food or beverage, it’s important to consume it in moderation and pay attention to how your body reacts to it. If you have any concerns about your coffee consumption, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional.

December 26, 2022January 16, 2023

How Much Caffeine Is In A Cup Of Coffee?

Coffee is a popular beverage that is enjoyed by many people around the world. One of the reasons for coffee’s popularity is its caffeine content, which can provide a much-needed boost of energy in the morning or throughout the day. But just how much caffeine is in coffee? The answer can vary depending on several factors.

First, it’s important to note that the amount of caffeine in coffee can vary depending on the type of coffee bean used. Different types of coffee beans contain different levels of caffeine, with some beans having higher levels than others. Additionally, the method of brewing can also affect the caffeine content of coffee. For example, a cup of drip coffee will typically have less caffeine than a cup of espresso.

On average, a cup of brewed coffee contains approximately 95-165 mg of caffeine. This can vary depending on the type of coffee bean used and the method of brewing. However, it’s important to note that a single “cup” of coffee can vary in size, with some cups being larger or smaller than others.

In addition to the caffeine content of the coffee itself, other factors can also affect the amount of caffeine you consume. For example, adding milk or cream to your coffee can dilute the caffeine content, while adding a shot of espresso to your coffee can increase the caffeine content.

To sum up, the amount of caffeine in coffee can vary depending on the type of coffee bean used, the method of brewing, and other factors such as the size of the cup and whether milk or other ingredients are added. On average, a cup of brewed coffee contains approximately 95-165 mg of caffeine, but this can vary.

December 23, 2022January 16, 2023

Swiss Water Decaf Coffee: The Lowdown on Decaf

If you’re a coffee lover who is trying to cut back on caffeine, you’ve probably heard of Swiss water decaf coffee. This type of decaf coffee is unique in that it is decaffeinated using a chemical-free process that is gentle on the beans and produces a high-quality, flavorful cup of coffee. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at caffeine in Swiss water decaf coffee and why it’s a great choice for those looking to reduce their caffeine intake.

To understand the caffeine content of Swiss water decaf coffee, it’s important to first understand how caffeine is removed from coffee beans. Most decaf coffee is decaffeinated using one of two methods: the chemical method or the Swiss water method. In the chemical method, the beans are soaked in chemicals that extract the caffeine from the beans, leaving behind a decaffeinated product. In contrast, the Swiss water method uses only water and a natural filter to extract the caffeine from the beans.

The Swiss water method is considered to be a more gentle and natural way to decaffeinate coffee because it does not use any chemicals. This means that the beans retain more of their natural flavor and aroma, resulting in a high-quality cup of decaf coffee. Additionally, the Swiss water method is able to remove nearly all of the caffeine from the beans, so Swiss water decaf coffee has a very low caffeine content.

So how much caffeine is in Swiss water decaf coffee? The exact amount can vary depending on the type of beans and the roasting process, but in general, Swiss water decaf coffee has less than 0.1% caffeine. This is significantly less than regular coffee, which typically has between 95 and 200 milligrams of caffeine per cup. So if you’re looking to reduce your caffeine intake but still want to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee, Swiss water decaf is a great option.

In conclusion, Swiss water decaf coffee is a high-quality, flavorful option for those looking to reduce their caffeine intake. Thanks to the chemical-free Swiss water method of decaffeination, this type of decaf coffee has a very low caffeine content, making it a great choice for coffee lovers who want to enjoy all of the flavor without the caffeine.

December 21, 2022January 16, 2023

Is Coffee Vegan?

Coffee is a popular beverage enjoyed by many people around the world. But for those following a vegan diet, the question arises: is coffee vegan? The answer is yes, coffee itself is vegan.

Coffee is made from the roasted seeds of the coffee plant, which are typically referred to as coffee beans. These beans do not contain any animal products, making them suitable for a vegan diet. In fact, coffee beans are naturally vegan as they are simply the seeds of a plant.

However, not all coffee is created equal and some types of coffee may not be suitable for vegans. For example, some flavored coffees may contain non-vegan ingredients such as milk or honey. Additionally, some coffee products may be processed using animal-derived products such as bone char, which is used in the decaffeination process.

To ensure that your coffee is vegan, it is important to check the ingredients list and look for any non-vegan additives. It is also a good idea to choose coffee that is labeled as organic, as this ensures that it has not been processed using any animal-derived products.

In conclusion, coffee itself is vegan, but it is important to check the ingredients and processing methods to ensure that your coffee is suitable for a vegan diet. By choosing organic and carefully reading labels, you can enjoy your coffee without worrying about consuming any non-vegan ingredients.

December 19, 2022January 16, 2023

Green Coffee: The Unroasted Beans that Make Delicious Coffee

Most people are familiar with roasted coffee beans, but did you know that coffee beans start out as green, unroasted seeds? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at green coffee and why it’s an important part of the coffee-making process.

Green coffee beans are the seeds of the coffee plant, known scientifically as Coffea. These seeds are found inside the fruit of the coffee plant, which is called the coffee cherry. When the cherries are ripe, they are picked, and the seeds are removed and dried. At this stage, the seeds are still green and have a slightly grassy, earthy aroma.

But why are coffee beans roasted? The roasting process is what gives coffee its delicious aroma and flavor. When the green coffee beans are heated to high temperatures, the chemical composition of the beans changes, and they begin to release gases. This is what gives roasted coffee its characteristic aroma and flavor. Different roasts, from light to dark, are achieved by roasting the beans for different amounts of time at different temperatures.

The roasting process also has an impact on the caffeine content of coffee. As the beans are roasted, some of the caffeine is burned off, so light roasts tend to have more caffeine than dark roasts. Additionally, the roasting process can affect the acidity of coffee, with darker roasts tending to be less acidic than lighter roasts.

In conclusion, green coffee beans are the unroasted seeds of the coffee plant. They are transformed into the delicious, aromatic roasted coffee that we know and love through the roasting process. Whether you prefer light, medium, or dark roasts, the green coffee beans are an essential part of the coffee-making process.