Aside from water, coffee stands as the world's most consumed beverage. Across various cultures and lifestyles, people have savored this brew for centuries.

With its extensive and vibrant history and its integral role in people's daily routines, there's much to discover about coffee, along with many misconceptions that persist and even grow over time.

Indulging in the rich aroma of a perfectly roasted cup of coffee to kickstart the day is invigorating. The belief that darker roasts contain more caffeine than lighter roasted coffee beans is a common misconception.

Dark roasted beans, with their bright color and full aroma, might seem like they pack more caffeine punch, but the truth is that most coffee beans contain a similar amount of caffeine, regardless of the roast.

The variance lies in the roasting methods. As raw coffee beans are heated, they gradually darken. The longer the roasting, the darker the bean; interestingly, heat reduces caffeine content.

Lighter roasts retain slightly more caffeine, making them ideal for the traditional breakfast pairing. Even if you prefer a robust, dark roast, the caffeine difference is minimal and won't significantly impact your morning brew.

Coffee Rumor 2: Coffee Must Be Drunk While Hot

The allure of a steaming cup of coffee is undeniable, but the misconception that coffee must be consumed piping hot is worth debunking. The optimal flavor is achieved when enjoying coffee in the 60-80°C temperature range.

Beyond 80°C, oxidation accelerates, leading to bitterness. If your coffee cools too much, a quick cooling method, like adding ice, can salvage it. Avoid brewing with water close to boiling, as it may burn the coffee grounds, masking the delightful flavors.

Coffee Rumor 3: The Freshest Beans Brew the Best Coffee

While freshness is crucial for a great cup, the belief that the freshest beans always brew the best coffee is a misconception. After roasting, coffee beans release carbon dioxide over 12 to 72 hours.

Brewing too soon results in residual carbon dioxide, affecting the extraction and causing a bitter aftertaste.

The peak period for optimal flavor typically starts two to three days after roasting, reaching its highest point and gradually diminishing between the tenth and fourteenth day. Checking the roast date ensures you enjoy your coffee at its flavor peak.

Coffee Rumor 4: Freezing Coffee Beans Keeps Them Fresh and Extends the Best Flavor Period

Preserving coffee beans in the refrigerator might seem like a good idea, but it's essential to understand the natural enemies of fresh coffee: air, moisture, and heat.

Coffee beans, being porous, can absorb moisture and odors in a humid environment. While the refrigerator might seem like a cool, dark place, the moisture can compromise the flavor.

Storing coffee beans in an airtight container, away from heat, light, and moisture, is the key to maintaining freshness. An excellent, dry kitchen or cabinet proves ideal for storing fresh coffee beans, ensuring they retain their optimal flavor without absorbing unwanted elements.