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FAQs
How should coffee be stored?
Once a coffee package has been opened, it should be stored in an opaque, airtight container in a cool, dry place. Do not freeze or refrigerate as this may cause coffee to pick-up unwanted odors and flavors.
Is there more caffeine in a dark roast or light roast coffee?
Neither. The roasting process doesn’t affect caffeine levels. However, caffeine levels between beans from different regions and varieties may vary dramatically.
Is there more caffeine in an espresso than regular coffee?
No. Espresso is brewed quickly allowing limited contact between the water and the coffee grounds so the caffeine is typically lower in a standard espresso shot than a cup of filter coffee.
Do espresso coffees need to be dark?
No. Authentic contemporary espresso, as enjoyed in cities like Milan, are relatively light. Very dark roasted espresso was popularized in the Pacific Northwest region of North America.
What is Swiss Water Process decaffeination?
Basically, this is a chemical-free method of removing 99% of caffeine from coffee beans. The decaffeination process occurs near Vancouver, Canada and is widely recognized as the industry-leading technique. For more information, visit swisswater.com.
What is the difference between Arabica and Robusta beans?
Arabica (Coffea Arabica) and Robusta (Coffee canephora) are different species of coffee trees. Arabica beans are higher quality, handpicked and grown at higher altitudes. They typically have about half the caffeine of their Robusta counterparts. Robusta beans are typically grown on flat terrain at lower altitudes and may be harvested by machine. They are generally harsh and bitter in comparison with Arabica coffees. Reunion Island has never roasted Robusta coffees.
Why do coffee prices fluctuate?
Coffee is a commodity that is traded on world stock exchanges and is subject to fluctuation as a result of demand. The expectation of a shortage due to poor crops or a surplus can have a dramatic effect on the coffee prices that all roasters pay. In addition to the base price for green coffee established on commodity markets, countries and individual farms assign a “differential” to their pricing which is determined by their coffee’s quality or rarity. The differential may be above or below the market green price.
Please email your coffee question to apesce@ricoffee.com and watch this page for updates.
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