10 Interesting Facts About Coffee

Coffee is one of the world’s most beloved beverages, enjoyed by millions of people every day. But, did you know that there’s more to coffee than meets the eye? Here are 10 interesting and not well-known facts about coffee that will surprise and delight coffee lovers everywhere.

1. Coffee is the second most traded commodity in the world, after petroleum. This is a testament to the global popularity and demand for coffee.
2. The world’s oldest coffee plant is over 100 years old and still producing coffee beans in a botanical garden in Jamaica. This ancient coffee plant serves as a reminder of the long and rich history of coffee cultivation.
3. The world’s largest coffee producer is Brazil, producing over 2.7 billion pounds of coffee per year. Brazil’s favorable climate and vast farmland make it the perfect location for coffee cultivation.
4. The world’s smallest coffee producer is San Marino, a small country located within Italy, producing only 60 pounds of coffee per year. San Marino may be small, but it is still proud of its coffee heritage.
5. In ancient Ethiopia, coffee was believed to have magical powers and was only consumed by the wealthy and powerful. Coffee was considered a sacred drink, and its consumption was restricted to the elite.
6. The first coffeehouse in Europe, called the “The Little Angel”, opened in Venice in 1683. This historic coffeehouse helped to popularize coffee in Europe and served as a model for the many coffeehouses that would follow.
7. Coffee was once banned in several countries, including Mecca in the 16th century and Sweden in the 18th century. The ban in Mecca was due to religious concerns, while in Sweden it was seen as a threat to the country’s beer and wine industry.
8. Coffee is actually a berry, not a bean. The “beans” that we use to make coffee are the seeds inside the coffee berry. This fact is not well known but is a interesting one for coffee enthusiasts to know.
9. The world’s most expensive coffee is called “Kopi Luwak” and is made from beans that have been digested by a civet, a small mammal found in Southeast Asia. The process of digestion imparts a unique flavor to the beans, making them highly sought-after and expensive.
10. The world’s first coffee plant was discovered in the Kaffa region of Ethiopia, which is why coffee is often referred to as “Kaffa” in some cultures. This region is considered the birthplace of coffee and holds a special place in the history of coffee cultivation.

These 10 interesting facts about coffee showcase the fascinating history, global impact and unique characteristics of coffee. From its origins in Ethiopia to its status as a global commodity, coffee is much more than just a drink, it’s a cultural icon that continues to evolve and inspire. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or a casual coffee drinker, these facts will give you a deeper appreciation for the rich and complex world of coffee.