National Coffee Day, Recognize the Difference between Arabica and Robusta

National Coffee Day is celebrated on March 11 2020. Indonesia is known as one of the best producers of coffee beans. Even though there are many types, some coffee comes from Arabica and Robusta coffee beans.

There are differences between Arabica and Robusta coffee. Starting from the physical to the characteristic taste. Robusta coffee is the second most popular coffee in the world after Arabica.

In bean form, Arabica coffee beans are more oval, curved and have a complex taste. Meanwhile, robusta has a round shape, straight slits and tastes more monotonous.

Difference between Arabica and Robusta:

1. Plants

Arabica is widely considered to be the most popular coffee among premium coffee lovers. Arabica coffee beans have a soft, light taste so they are easier for people to enjoy. Brazil is one of the arabica coffee producers and Vietnam is one of the leaders in robusta coffee producers.

Arabica coffee is grown in plains less than 700 meters above sea level. Meanwhile, Robusta coffee grows in the lowlands, namely below 700 meters above sea level.

2. Caffeine content

Robusta coffee beans contain more caffeine than Arabica coffee beans. Robusta beans contain 2.7 percent caffeine content. And Arabica coffee beans generally contain 1.5 percent caffeine.

Apart from caffeine, there are also differences between arabica and robusta in terms of antioxidant content. Robusta coffee beans contain 7 to 10 percent chlorogenic acid but arabica only about 5.5 to 8 percent.

Difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee. Photo: iStock

3. Seed Form

In terms of shape, Arabica and Robusta coffee beans are also different. Arabica coffee has a slightly elongated and slightly flat bean shape with a rather large size. Robusta coffee beans are slightly rounded and look denser.

4. Taste and Aroma of Coffee

Robusta coffee has a taste that tends to be bitter. This coffee is suitable for making espresso. Meanwhile, Arabica coffee tends to have a more fruity and sweeter taste.

When roasted, Arabica coffee can emit a fragrant aroma ranging from fruit, flowers and nuts. Meanwhile, robusta when roasted has a nutty aroma.

Differences between Arabica and Robusta coffee beans. Photo: iStock

5. Which is Better?

Both Arabica and Robusta coffee each have their fans. If so, which is better? Both have their own characteristics. Some coffee sellers also combine robusta and arabica coffee types.

(erd/ddn)