Did you switch to decaffeinated coffee to avoid caffeine? Well, think again. A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Florida reveals that almost all decaf coffee contains some level of caffeine. It turns out that caffeine may still find its way into your cup, even when you opt for decaf. So, how much caffeine is actually in your beloved decaf coffee?
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The Unexpected Caffeine Content
Caffeine is the world’s most widely consumed drug, and coffee is a major source of this popular stimulant. If you thought decaffeinated coffee would be caffeine-free, you might be in for a surprise. The University of Florida researchers found that even decaf brews can pack a punch of caffeine.
According to co-author Bruce Goldberger, Ph.D., director of UF’s William R. Maples Center for Forensic Medicine, someone who drinks five to ten cups of decaf coffee could easily consume the same amount of caffeine as a cup or two of caffeinated coffee. This revelation raises concerns for individuals advised to reduce their caffeine intake due to medical conditions like hypertension, kidney disease, or anxiety disorders.
The Study’s Findings
To determine the caffeine content of decaffeinated coffees, UF researchers conducted a two-phase study. They purchased 10 different 16-ounce decaf drip-brewed coffee beverages from various national chains and local coffee houses. The caffeine content was isolated from each coffee sample and measured using gas chromatography.
Surprisingly, every serving, except for instant decaffeinated Folgers Coffee Crystals, contained caffeine. The caffeine levels ranged from 8.6 milligrams to 13.9 milligrams. In comparison, an 8-ounce cup of regular drip-brewed coffee contains approximately 85 milligrams of caffeine.
In the second phase of the study, scientists analyzed 12 samples of decaffeinated espresso and brewed coffee from a single Starbucks store. The espresso drinks contained caffeine levels ranging from 3 milligrams to 15.8 milligrams per shot. The brewed coffees had caffeine concentrations ranging from 12 milligrams to 13.4 milligrams per 16-ounce serving.
Potential Effects and Considerations
While the amount of caffeine in decaffeinated coffees is relatively low, some individuals could still develop a physical dependence on these beverages. Mark S. Gold, M.D., a distinguished professor at UF’s College of Medicine, suggests that decaf coffee with just enough caffeine may stimulate its own consumption. Therefore, individuals who have been advised to follow a caffeine-free diet should avoid frequent consumption of large cups of decaf coffee.
Even moderate levels of caffeine can increase agitation, anxiety, heart rate, and blood pressure in susceptible individuals, warns Goldberger. Roland Griffiths, Ph.D., a professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, adds that even low doses of caffeine, as low as 10 milligrams, can produce noticeable effects in sensitive individuals.
It’s essential to acknowledge that “decaffeinated” is not synonymous with “caffeine-free.” So, if you’re trying to eliminate caffeine from your diet, be aware that popular espresso drinks like lattes can contain as much caffeine as a can of Coca-Cola, roughly 31 milligrams.
With this surprising revelation, it’s clear that switching to decaf doesn’t guarantee a caffeine-free experience. So, the next time you reach for your favorite decaf coffee, keep in mind that there might still be a little boost hidden in every sip.
For more information about decaffeinated coffee and other delightful offerings, visit Marmalade Cafe.