Coffee is a fruit

It's fascinating how many coffee lovers are unaware that their cherished beverage actually originates from a fruit. 

These fruits, known as coffee cherries, typically start as small, green berries before ripening into vibrant red or yellow fruits, depending on the variety. Inside each cherry are two coffee beans nestled within a sweet, juicy pulp layer. This unique aspect of coffee adds an extra layer of intrigue to the beloved beverage, highlighting its connection to nature and the plant kingdom.

Coffee Was Originally Chewed, Not Brewed

Did you know that people chewed coffee beans when coffee was first discovered? 

In Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee, ancient tribes are said to have mixed ground coffee with animal fat for an energy boost while hunting and gathering. The practice of brewing coffee emerged in the 15th century and spread globally across coffee-drinking communities. 

Even today, some Ethiopian tribes roast their beans over an open fire, making the idea of mixing coffee with animal fat less far-fetched.

Goats Discovered Coffee!

Legend has it that coffee was discovered in the 9th century when a goat herder named Kaldi noticed his goats became lively after consuming certain coffee plants. This led to the discovery of coffee's stimulating properties, revolutionizing the world's beverage culture.

Coffee Was Once Considered a Forbidden Beverage

It's a less cheerful fact, but it doesn't make it less interesting! 

During the reign of Ottoman Sultan Murad IV in the 16th century, coffee was deemed a forbidden beverage. Like many other religious leaders in the past, Sultan Murad IV branded coffee as dangerous, convincing his subjects that the bean had unwelcome mind-altering capabilities. 

As a result, he passed a law that would see anyone who sipped the cup subject to punishment by death. Thankfully, times have changed, and we can now enjoy coffee without fear of persecution.

Coffee is the Second Most Traded Commodity

The ranking of coffee as the second most traded commodity after crude oil is a topic of ongoing debate. While many studies support this assertion, it's essential to acknowledge differing opinions within the industry.

 Is it a myth or a fact? Well, that's still up for debate.  

Nevertheless, coffee's economic importance importance remains undeniable. With a global industry value exceeding $100 billion and a U.S. market value surpassing $500 million, coffee undeniably holds significant economic sway on both a global and national scale.

Finland Leads the World in Coffee Consumption

Did you know the average Finn consumes an impressive 25 pounds of coffee within a year? 

According to Business Insider, Finland's coffee consumption tops global charts, and there's a good reason behind it: Finnish culture deeply embraces coffee, and the "kahvitauko" (coffee break) is a cherished tradition. From business meetings to social gatherings, coffee is integral to Finnish coffee lover life.

Coffee Lovers are likely to Live Longer

Coffee lovers may have reason to celebrate beyond their morning ritual, as studies suggest they could enjoy a longer life. Coffee's rich antioxidants and caffeine content are linked to reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. 

So, sip your coffee and toast to a longer, healthier life!

The World's Most Expensive Coffee Comes from Elephant and Civet Poop!

Willing to pay top dollar? 

At a staggering $600 per pound, the black ivory coffee reigns as the most expensive coffee in the market. Why so pricey? The rare coffee is processed using cherries extracted from Thai elephant feces. 

As if that wasn't mind-blowing enough, the second most expensive coffee, Kopi Luwak, is derived from coffee cherries consumed and excreted by palm civets. You have to spend $130 for a shot of Kopi Luwak to enjoy the uniquely smooth and mild acidic flavor courtesy of a civet's poop!

The Coffee Belt Determines Flavor Profiles

Stretching between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, the Bean Belt fosters diverse coffee flavor profiles due to its unique climatic conditions. From the boldness of Kenyan coffee to the richness of Colombian beans, each region offers a distinct coffee experience.