What Are the Varieties and Derivatives of Coffee Beans? What Are the Main Components and Their Functions?

FrontStreet Coffee - Introduction to Coffee Bean Varieties and Components

What are the varieties of coffee beans?

Arabica

The Arabica variety originates from the Ethiopian highlands and was initially used as medicine. In the 13th century, the practice of roasting developed, and until the 16th century, it was introduced to Europe through Arab traders, becoming a popular beverage throughout the European continent. Following the footsteps of European colonists, it became one of the most popular beverages worldwide.

Robusta

The Robusta variety was discovered in the Congo region of Africa. It has greater resistance to leaf rust disease, but due to its overly strong flavor, few people consume it directly.

Typically, when just 3-4% of Robusta coffee beans are mixed into a cup of coffee, the entire cup will taste like Robusta coffee.

Liberica

The Liberica variety is mainly produced in West Africa. It has extremely high adaptability to the environment but cannot resist leaf rust disease. Its flavor is also inferior to Arabica, so it is only circulated domestically in West African countries including Liberia and Ivory Coast. It is difficult to find Liberica varieties in the international market. Its appearance is spoon-shaped.

Coffee Bean Components

Water, protein, fat, carbohydrates (sucrose), chlorogenic acid, caffeine, and amino acids are the main factors that affect the color, aroma, and flavor of coffee beans.

Knowledge Extension: Caffeine accounts for 0.9%-1.4% in Arabica varieties, while Canephora (Robusta) typically accounts for 2%, sometimes exceeding 3%.

In Summary

FrontStreet Coffee is a coffee research hall that enjoys sharing coffee knowledge with everyone. We share without reservation, hoping to help more friends fall in love with coffee. Additionally, we hold three coffee discount events every month because FrontStreet Coffee wants to provide the best coffee to more friends at the lowest possible price. This has been FrontStreet Coffee's mission for the past 6 years!