What are the differences between Arabica and Robusta?

The variety of coffee

Coffee is an evergreen shrub native to Ethiopia, East Africa. Generally, the main tree species can be divided into three original species: Arabica, Robusta and Liberia. At present, in the world coffee bean trade, the most important coffee beans mainly come from two original species: Arabica and Robusta. The cultivation methods, growth environment, shape and other conditional characteristics of this kind of coffee beans are different, and even the caffeine content is quite different.

In the classification of the plant kingdom, there are actually several different varieties under the genus Coffee. Arabica and Robusta are two more common and widely drunk varieties; strictly speaking, the species of the same grade as Arabica is called "Canephora", and Robusta is its subspecies, but it is often called because it is too famous.

The difference between Arabica and Robusta

1. Bean shape:

The Arabica species are flat and oval, while the Robusta species are more round and sturdy than the Arabica species.

two。 Aroma and flavor:

Arabica seed fruit has obvious sour taste and heavy aroma. Robusta species has a bitter taste, no obvious acidity, and less pure fruit flower aroma (baking aroma) like Arabica seeds.

3. Altitude and harvesting method:

The altitude of Arabica species is about 500~2300mm, and that of Robusta species is below 500mm.

Therefore, the Arabica species are harvested artificially, and most of the Robusta species can be harvested by machines.

4. Caffeine content:

Arabica species are about 1.1 to 1.7% (1.2% of bean volume) and Robusta species are about 4.5 to 4.7 (2.3% of bean volume).

Robusta

Judging from the above brief introduction, Robusta has the advantages of low altitude, good resistance to diseases and insect pests, and fast growth, so the price is low, and it is a very favorable condition in commerce, and it is often used for mixing and seasoning. It is even used to make "instant coffee", "three in one" and so on. Since the cost of coffee beans is much lower than that of Arabica, it is also suitable for blending into low-priced or large quantities of chain coffee to maintain economic benefits (Arabica and Robusta mix). In terms of flavor, Robusta beans have a strong sour taste, with pepper, spice flavor, obvious bitterness, high thickness and other characteristics. Robusta species also has a high caffeine content. After adjustment, it is either too watery or too milky, or cause palpitations, sleeplessness, and so on. People with allergies can clearly feel it when they drink it.

Arabica

Arabica beans are just the opposite of Robusta, which has poor resistance to diseases and insect pests, high altitude and slow growth, but also because of this, sugar and nutrients accumulate more in the beans, showing fine acidity and fruit aromas. rich sweetness and other characteristics. Arabica seeds are harvested artificially to avoid destroying flavor and taste and affecting health. The right amount of caffeine can make drinkers feel comfortable and relaxed without feeling tired.