If you use an office coffee service, there’s probably a lot of debate among employees about light and dark roast. Disputes over which type tastes better or which one has more caffeine are likely common in your workplace. While the only thing that really matters is that they enjoy the coffee, it does make one wonder: Is one better? Does one type have more caffeine?
The Difference Between Light and Dark Roast Coffee
The distinctive features in taste between the two different kinds are a result of how the beans are roasted. A light roast is exposed to heat for less time than a dark roast, which means it retains more of the bean’s original flavor. It also means it will be higher in acidity, so if you’re one whose stomach easily gets upset, a light roast might not be your best choice.
With a darker roast, the beans are exposed to higher heat at longer intervals. This method creates a flavor that is sweeter, heavier, and much less acidic.
Which Type Has More Caffeine?
When a coffee bean is roasted, the natural oils are drawn out from it, as well as the caffeine it contains. So the longer the bean is roasting, the more oils and caffeine content are extracted. That said, lighter roasts have more caffeine because they are exposed to heat for a shorter amount of time than dark roast.
Settling the Dispute Among Employees
Despite the fact that lighter roasts have more caffeine, it’s really a personal choice as to which kind tastes better. The best way to settle this difference among employees is to provide them with a full variety of coffee choices.