Questions and answers related to Coffee

Coffee is an experience that holds countless secrets! In this article, we will answer some questions that many coffee lovers ask about its influence on health, nutritional values, storage and preparation and much more. If you are a coffee enthusiast or simply want to deepen your knowledge about this drink, take a moment to discover the answers to the most frequently asked questions.

Health and Nutrition

1. Does coffee make you fat? 

Answer : coffee, being calorie-free, is to be considered a light drink and, in itself, does not constitute a factor in weight gain, since the caloric intake is minimal . However, the issue becomes delicate when sugar is introduced: just one teaspoon of sugar is enough to significantly triple your calorie intake.
It is important to underline that we are talking about relatively small quantities, which in themselves should not affect physical fitness, unless drinking sweetened coffee during the day becomes a frequent habit.
For those who are following a slimming diet or a balanced diet, the suggestion is to opt for bitter coffee . In this way, without having to give up the pleasure of enjoying this drink, you can continue to enjoy its flavor and benefits without running the risk of accumulating excess weight.

2. Is coffee dehydrating?

Answer: the widespread belief that coffee has a dehydrating effect and that it must necessarily be accompanied by a glass of water to compensate for the loss of liquids is now outdated. In the past, this recommendation was based on a misinterpretation of data from studies from a few years ago. However, current research shows that a glass of water and a cup of coffee similarly affect the body's water balance .
A quantity of coffee between three and four cups per day is considered moderate and can easily fit into the recommended daily intake of liquids, which is around 1.5 litres.
In conclusion, the need to drink water to compensate for coffee is now considered unnecessary, and the practice of drinking water after coffee can result in excess fluid intake.

3. What are the nutritional values ​​present in a cup of espresso coffee?

Answer : The nutritional values ​​of coffee depend on several factors, including the type of coffee and the brewing method .
Here is a rough overview of the nutrients present in 100 ml of espresso:

- Water: 97 g
- Protein: 0.12 g
- Lipids: 0.18 g
- Carbohydrates: 1.67 g
- Calcium: 2 mg
- Iron: 0.13 mg
- Magnesium: 80 mg
- Phosphorus: 7 mg
- Potassium: 115 mg
- Sodium: 14 mg
- Zinc: 0.05 mg
- Vitamin C: 0.2 mg
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): 0.001 mg
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): 0.177 mg
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin): 5,207 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.002 mg
- Vitamin B9 (Folic acid): 1 µg
- Vitamin E: 0.01 mg
- Vitamin K: 0.1 µg

- Caffeine: the amount of caffeine can vary depending on the blend used, whether Arabica or Robusta . Typically, coffee contains 1-2g of caffeine per 100g of coffee powder. A cup of coffee prepared with approximately 6 g of powder can contain from 50 to 120 mg of caffeine, depending on the preparation method and the type of blend chosen, which can be espresso or mocha.

4. Does coffee aid digestion?

Answer: According to recent research from the Institute for Scientific Information on Coffee (ISIC), coffee may play a beneficial role in digestion . The report, titled "Coffee and its effect on digestion" , indicates that coffee consumption could reduce the risk of digestive disorders such as gallstones and pancreatitis, offering a potential protective effect . Furthermore, coffee appears to have benefits on intestinal motility and intestinal microflora .
Professor Carlo La Vecchia, author of the report and belonging to the Department of Clinical and Community Sciences of the University of Milan, underlines that the research highlights the benefits of coffee against common digestive disorders, such as constipation, and potentially reduces the risk of diseases chronic liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), gallstones and pancreatitis.
The report also indicates that coffee may promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, such as Bifidobacterium spp. Furthermore, it is suggested that coffee consumption can promote digestion through the release of gastric juices, bile and pancreatic secretions. In summary, research suggests that coffee may play a positive role in digestive health, offering several benefits for the gastrointestinal tract.

Storage and Preparation

5. Should coffee be stored in the fridge?

Answer: coffee should not be stored in the refrigerator because humidity could compromise the quality of the coffee and negatively affect the aroma. For this reason, you should store coffee beans or ground coffee in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dry place , avoiding contact with sources of heat and humidity. It is preferable to use airtight vacuum containers to avoid the penetration of external odors and to ensure that oxygen does not go rancid.
For more information on how to store coffee, read our in-depth article .

6. How long does ground coffee last?

Answer: Properly stored ground coffee can last up to 3-5 months, but to ensure the best flavor, it is best to use it within 2 weeks.
The freshness of the coffee is maximum in the first ten days after roasting, maintaining a good flavor for up to approximately 30 days. Although coffee beans can be drinkable for an extended period, the quality of the taste is closely linked to their freshness which therefore depends on correct storage.

7. Can coffee capsules be reused?

Answer: Coffee capsules are designed for single use and are not meant to be reused.

8. How to prepare coffee with the Moka?

Answer: Pour previously heated water, with a temperature between 60 and 90 degrees Celsius, into the moka boiler, making sure it reaches the level below the valve. Next, dose the coffee into the filter with a ratio of 1 part coffee to 10 parts water. For example, if you are using a 3-cup moka pot, pour 150 ml of water and 15 grams of coffee, distributing the latter evenly without forming a mound.
Place the moka on the stove and adjust the flame to low intensity. While juicing, leave the lid open to monitor the process. Turn off the flame when the coffee exceeds half of the extraction chamber; the residual pressure in the boiler will guarantee a continuous flow of coffee, avoiding the accentuation of bitter parts in the cup. Avoid letting the moka bubble during extraction, as this could result in over-extracted coffee. Finally, mix the coffee with a teaspoon before pouring it into the cups to ensure even distribution of the aromas.

9. What is the ideal proportion of coffee and water for the moka?

Answer: the ideal proportion of coffee and water to prepare an espresso with the moka is 1/10. This means that the perfect amount is 1 gram of coffee for every 10 grams of water. Maintaining this proportion is essential to ensure correct extraction of the coffee and obtain an optimal result in terms of aroma and flavour.

Capsules and Specialty Coffee

10. Are the compatible capsules of inferior quality?

Answer: absolutely not. For example, Cellini Caffè capsules offer the highest quality coffee thanks to a meticulous selection of high-quality coffee origins. Each bean is carefully chosen to contribute significantly to the unique characteristics of the blend. Roasting, carried out slowly with a traditional approach, is essential to develop the desired aromatic profile. The roasting curve is carefully designed for each blend, ensuring specific attention to enhance its particular characteristics. Furthermore, Cellini Caffè's compatible capsules preserve the coffee from humidity, light and oxygen.

11. What does "Specialty Coffee" mean?

Answer: the term Specialty Coffee or "Specialty Coffee" identifies a high quality coffee, introduced in the 1970s in the United States and regulated by the SCA (Specialty Coffee Association). This coffee, carefully selected during the production process, follows rigorous criteria to guarantee a unique aromatic profile free from defects . The high standards are also reflected in the tasting phase, known as "cupping" or "Brazilian style," where every aspect of the coffee is carefully evaluated following precise protocols.

12. How can I best taste a Specialty Coffee?

Answer: to fully appreciate a specialty coffee, it is advisable to follow some key steps during tasting . Initially, using filtered water with a suitable carafe is essential to ensure that there is no unwanted flavor interference when brewing the coffee. The use of quality water helps to enhance the aromatic nuances and distinctive flavors present in specialty coffee.
Another crucial aspect is to respect the recommended proportions between the quantity of coffee and water. This ensures that the blend is extracted correctly, maintaining an optimal balance between strength and complexity of flavours. The recommended proportions vary based on the coffee preparation method , whether espresso, filter or other. Following these instructions carefully will help to obtain a well-balanced cup rich in sensory characteristics.
During tasting, it is advisable to pay attention to the different aromas and flavors that are revealed. Tasting allows you to fully savor the coffee by capturing the nuances of its aromatic profile.

Do you want to delve deeper into the world of Specialty Coffees?

• Specialty Coffee: what it is, how to prepare it and where to find it
• Specialty Coffee: a journey into unique flavours
• How to recognize a real Specialty Coffee: the guide (link to

Various

13. Does decaffeinated coffee have caffeine?

Answer: Decaffeinated coffee is essentially coffee with a caffeine percentage reduced to below 0.1% of its weight . This reduction occurs through the decaffeination process, which is applied to green coffee beans before roasting. This process takes place in specialized industrial plants, where caffeine is extracted through various methods. While significantly reducing the presence of caffeine, it is important to note that residual traces may still remain in decaffeinated coffee , making it suitable for those who wish to limit caffeine consumption but not eliminate it completely.

14. Can I use coffee for cooking?

Answer: yes, absolutely! Coffee can be a versatile ingredient in the kitchen and can be used in many recipes, both sweet and savory , to add depth of flavor and a touch of bitterness. You can experiment with coffee in meat marinades, barbecue sauces, desserts, meat rubs, and even mixed drinks. Its aromatic richness can help create more complex and interesting dishes.

15. What is the difference between Arabica and Robusta?

Answer: Arabica is known for its subtle sweetness, fruity notes and lively acidity, Robusta is known for its spicier, woodier taste and its higher caffeine content. The choice between the two varieties depends on individual tastes, with some preferring the complexity and liveliness of Arabica, while others appreciate the strength and intensity of Robusta. The diversity between the two offers coffee lovers the chance to explore a rich range of flavor experiences. Find out more about the differences between Arabica and Robusta .

16. American coffee vs espresso: what are the differences?

Answer: Drip coffee is a drink that has gained popularity around the world due to its unique preparation method and versatility. Unlike espresso, drip coffee is made through a filtering process, in which hot water is poured over ground coffee through a filter. This produces a less concentrated drink, with a more delicate flavor and balanced taste. The coarser grind, the controlled temperature of the water and the conical filter are key elements in the preparation of this drink. American coffee is often appreciated for its adaptability and the ability to customize it with various accompaniments. In American culture, in particular, it is common to serve it with milk, sugar, flavored syrups, and whipped cream, offering a range of options to suit individual tastes. For a more in-depth understanding of drip coffee, you can read our article .

17. Can coffee expire?

Answer: T he concept of expiration for coffee is a little different than many other food products. Coffee does not have an expiry date in the traditional sense, as it does not immediately become harmful or dangerous to your health after a certain period. However, coffee is very susceptible to oxidation, humidity and the absorption of external odors. Coffee beans contain natural oils and volatile compounds that contribute to their unique flavor profile. Over time, these oils in contact with air can oxidize, negatively affecting the flavor of the coffee. Additionally, humidity can cause mold to grow on the beans or in the ground coffee, compromising the quality of the product. While coffee is not unsafe to consume even several months after its production date, freshness is critical to obtaining a high-quality cup of coffee.