❓ What’s the difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee beans?

Arabica and Robusta are the two main commercial coffee species, each with distinct characteristics:

• Arabica: Grows at higher altitudes, contains less caffeine (about 1.5%), and has a smoother, sweeter taste with complex flavor notes like fruit and chocolate. Makes up about 60% of global production.
• Robusta: Grows at lower altitudes, has nearly double the caffeine content (2.7%), and features a stronger, often bitter taste with earthy notes. More disease-resistant and cheaper to produce.

Arabica is generally considered higher quality and is used in specialty coffee, while Robusta is common in espresso blends and instant coffee for its strong flavor and crema-producing properties.