Coffee

Guide Note

Coffee is an important beverage to many cultures around the world for ritualistic and culinary reasons. This revered drink originates in a bean from a coffee bush. Ripe coffee beans cannot be consumed raw; they must be dried, roasted, then ground and brewed with hot water to make the drink we call coffee.

Coffee originated in 9th century Ethiopia, spread to the Middle East, then Europe, then the Americas. Today most coffee is grown in Latin America, Southeast Asia and Africa. Coffee is the world's seventh largest crop, and can be a very expensive commodity to buy. In recent years, Fair Trade coffee has become trendy, as many activists contend that coffee growers see little of the economic benefits associated with the coffee trade.

Coffee's effect on health is disputed, as some studies suggest coffee in moderation may be good for you, while others says it has negative effects on health. Its caffeine content makes it a controversial beverage. A cup of coffee can contain from 65 to 175 mg of caffeine depending on the way it is prepared. The physical and psychological effects of caffiene, which is a stimulant, are beleived to be addictive.

Also see Mahalo's Guide to espresso drinks for information on specialty coffee beverages.

Fast Facts

1. Starbucks is America's largest coffee retailer
2. Comes from the roasted seed of the coffee plant
3. 7 oz. drip coffee contains 115-175 mg of caffeine
4. Grown in Latin America, Asia and Africa