Light vs Dark Roast: One Coffee's Biggest Caffeine Myth

Discover the truth about caffeine in light vs dark roast coffee. Learn how measurement methods affect caffeine content and choose the right roast for your perfect cup.

COFFEE EDUCATION

Zaheen Hamidani

7/26/20231 min read

Dark roast has more caffeine because it's roasted longer' - we've all heard this common coffee myth. As your local Mexican coffee roasters, let's break down the science behind roast levels and caffeine content.

The Caffeine Truth

Here's something that might surprise you: the roasting process barely affects caffeine content. The real difference comes down to how you measure your coffee.

Measuring by Scoop:
  • Light roast beans are denser, so you get more coffee per scoop.

  • More coffee = more caffeine

This is why light roasts like our Cherry Jaguar might seem more energizing.

Measuring by Weight:
  • Dark and light roasts have almost identical caffeine content

  • 200g of Cherry Jaguar (light roast) = 200g of Chocolate Coati (medium roast) in caffeine content the difference is less than 1%

What Actually Changes During Roasting?
  • Bean size: Dark roasts expand more

  • Density: Light roasts stay denser

  • Flavor compounds: These change dramatically

  • Oil content: Increases with darker roasts

Why Choose Light or Dark Roast?
Light Roast (Our Cherry Jaguar):

Bright, complex flavors, dense beans, more original bean characteristics it's perfect for pour-over methods.

Heavy Medium Roast (Our Chocolate Coati):

Balanced flavor profile, rich chocolate notes and versatile brewing options it's a great option for espresso if you enjoy the most traditional flavours.

The Dark Roast Myth