Robusta Coffee: Definition, Growing, Taste, and Best Brands
Updated - Team Colipse
Robusta coffee (Coffea canephora) is a major coffee type in global trade. Robusta coffee originated in the lowland rainforests of Central and Western sub-Saharan Africa. Robusta coffee bean are the seeds of the Coffea canephora plant characterized by unique blossoms and a wide canopy. They grow mainly in Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America. Over 90% comes from Vietnam, Brazil, Indonesia, Uganda, and India. Robusta coffee has a strong, bold taste with nutty, chocolatey notes and a bitter edge. To choose the best Robusta coffee, determine your flavor preferences, check bean quality, and assess the origin. Look for the right coffee roast that matches your brewing method from brands like Colipse. Besides Robusta, Arabica, Liberica, and Excelsa are the four main coffee bean types.
What is Robusta Coffee?
Robusta coffee (Coffea canephora) is one of the two main coffee types that dominate global trade. Robusta is a species of flowering plant within the genus Coffea in the coffee family (Rubiaceae). The botanical name for Robusta coffee is Coffea canephora, first described by Louis Pierre in 1895. Robusta coffee beans are seeds from the C. Canephora Robusta plant, a shrub or small tree native to Central Africa's tropical rainforests. The two main forms of Coffea canephora are Erecta, a tall-standing coffee plant, and Nganda, a broad shrub. The two main varieties of Robusta coffee are Coffea canephora var. robusta and Coffea canephora var. kouilou, or Conilon coffee in Brazil. Robusta coffee cultivars are plants selectively bred or discovered for particular characteristics, such as BP 936 or BRS 2314. Hybrids result from crossbreeding different species or varieties, like CxR (a hybrid between Coffea canephora and Coffea congensis).
What Does C. Canephora Robusta Mean?
The C. Canephora Robusta is a specific species within the coffee plant family. The term "Canephora" comes from the Greek words kanos (cane or reed) and phoros (bearing or carrying), referring to the plant’s cane-like growth or fruit-bearing habit along its branches. The word "Robusta" comes from the Latin robustus, meaning "strong," "hardy," "vigorous," or "robust." This name reflects the Coffea canephora plant's resilience. Compared to Coffea arabica, it is more resistant to diseases like coffee leaf rust, pests, and thrives in hotter climates with irregular rainfall. The correct pronunciation of "Robusta" coffee is roh-BOOST-uh, with the emphasis on the second syllable.
What is the Origin of Robusta Coffee?
Robusta coffee originated in the lowland rainforests of Central and Western sub-Saharan Africa, spanning from Guinea to Uganda to Angola. The first documented cultivation began around 1870 in Congo, using genetic material from the Lomani River region in present-day Democratic Republic of Congo. In 1897, botanist Louis Pierre, working at the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle in France, formally described and named the Robusta coffee species as Coffea canephora var. Pierre ex A. Froehner.
Robusta coffee seeds from Congo were sent to Brussels and then Java, Indonesia. Farmers there adopted it due to its high productivity and resistance to coffee leaf rust. In the early 1900s, Indonesia became a center for systematic Robusta coffee bean breeding, using genetic material from Gabon and Uganda. Robusta coffee spread globally, reaching India from Java and later from West Africa. By 1910, selected material from Java was reintroduced to Central Africa and reached the Democratic Republic of Congo by 1916. In 1912, Robusta arrived in Latin America, with the Conilon group specifically reaching Brazil.
What are Robusta Coffee Beans?
Robusta coffee bean are the seeds of the Coffea canephora plant characterized by unique blossoms and a wide canopy. The plant has dark green leaves and produces cherries that turn bright red when ripe. Each cherry holds two small, roundish beans with a straight incision. In Peaberry Robusta, a Robusta coffee variety, only one round seed forms instead of the usual two. Robusta beans grow inside circular cherries that ripen in 10-11 months. The plants are compact, reaching up to 4.5 meters, with smaller leaves, and tolerate hot temperatures and full sunlight. Robusta plants grow at altitudes from sea level to 800 meters. They resist pests and diseases better than Arabica, making them ideal for tropical climates.
Robusta coffee beans are small, rounded, and often irregular with a rough texture and a thicker outer layer, giving them a rugged appearance. They usually have a straighter or absent crease compared to Arabica beans. Unroasted Robusta coffee beans are light brown. When roasted, they darken, ranging from light brown to almost black, depending on the roast level. A single Robusta bean weighs approximately 0.27 grams, according to a 2023 study by Eko Sutrisno in the Open Global Scientific Journal. A batch of 100 Robusta coffee beans typically weighs between 12 and 15 grams, while 100 Arabica beans weigh between 15 and 20 grams.
What are the Characteristics of Robusta Coffee Beans?
Robusta coffee bean characteristics are the distinct traits and qualities of the Coffea canephora, setting it apart from Arabica. These characteristics include agronomic traits, adaptability to various climates, fruit properties, caffeine content, and more. The following table summarize the characteristics of Robusta coffee beans.
| Robusta coffee bean Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Coffee Bean Species | Coffea canephora |
| Agronomic Traits | Robusta coffee is hardy and resilient. It yields more crops per tree than Arabica and resists pests and diseases more effectively, requiring fewer fungicides and pesticides. It is also easier to grow and manage. |
| Elevation | Robusta coffee beans grow at altitudes from sea level to 800 meters. |
| Climate Adaptability | Robusta coffee plant thrives in hot, humid climates and tolerates full sunshine. It grows well at lower altitudes, particularly in tropical regions. It withstands high temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C. |
| Coffee Bean Varieties | Coffea canephora var. robusta, Coffea canephora var. kouilou (Conilon coffee in Brazil). Two main varieties: C. c. robusta and C. c. nganda. |
| Fruit Characteristics | Takes about 10–11 months for cherries to ripen. Produces circular, slightly smaller berries. Each cherry usually contains two small, roundish beans. |
| Coffee Bean Size | Generally smaller and rounder than Arabica beans. Geometric diameter (GM) of about 10.3 millimeters. The weight of 100 Robusta beans can vary between 12 and 15 grams. |
| Bean Color | Unroasted Robusta coffee beans have a light brown color. Robusta beans also tend to have a darker coloration, ranging from light brown to almost black, depending on the degree of roasting. |
| Caffeine Content | Robusta coffee beans contain 2.2% to 2.7% caffeine, while Arabica beans contain 1.2% to 1.5% caffeine. |
| Moisture Content | Green Robusta coffee beans typically have an initial moisture content ranging from about 11% to over 50% before drying, depending on the processing method and environmental conditions. |
| Fat Content | Robusta coffee beans typically contain 7% to 17% fat, averaging around 10% in green beans. |
| Protein Content | Robusta coffee beans typically contain 10% to 14.5% protein. |
| Carbohydrate Content | Robusta beans generally have less carbohydrate than Arabica. Arabica beans have 40-65% carbohydrates, while Robusta has 53-60%. |
| pH & Acidity | Robusta beans have lower acidity and pH than Arabica beans. |
| Processing | It can be processed using wet or dry methods. |
| Flavor Profile | Bold, robust flavor with earthy, woody undertones, often accompanied by noticeable bitterness and hints of chocolate and nuts. |
| Time to First Fruiting | Flowers irregularly. The plant takes about 10-11 months to reach maturation. |
| Productive Lifespan | Robusta coffee trees are most productive for 7 to 20 years. |
| Harvesting Method | Harvesting process is carried out by farmers hand-picking whole, red-ripe coffee cherries. |
| Post Harvest Processing | Post-harvest processing greatly affects coffee bean quality, cup quality, and sensory aspects. |
| Uses | Espresso blends, instant coffee production, coffee blends to balance flavors and reduce costs. |
| Most Producing Countries | Vietnam, Brazil, and Indonesia. |
What are the Different Types of Robusta Coffee?
The different types of Robusta coffee include BP 534, BRS 1216, KR1, Clon 24, Clon 28, and many others. These are cultivars of Coffea canephora, bred for specific traits like disease resistance, high yield, or adaptability. Robusta also has two main varieties: Erecta, a tall plant with a strong flavor, and Nganda, a spreading variety with a milder taste. A list of the main Robusta coffee types follows below.
- BP 534
- BP 936
- BP 939
- BRS 1216
- BRS 2314
- INIFAP 00-24 (Clon 24)
- INIFAP 00-28 (Clon 28)
- KR1 (NARO-Kituza Robusta)
- KR10 (NARO-Kituza Robusta)
- Roubi 1
- Roubi 9
- SA 237 (Kopi)
- Sln.1R (Congensis x Robusta)
- Sln.3R (Congensis x Robusta)
- TR9
- Xanh Lun
- Erecta
- Nganda
Where is Robusta Coffee Grown?
Robusta coffee is primarily grown in Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America. Over 90% of global Robusta coffee comes from Vietnam, Brazil, Indonesia, Uganda, and India. Most Robusta coffee grows in the "Bean Belt" near the Equator, between 25° north and 30° south. Robusta coffee is cultivated in regions with hot, humid climates, temperatures between 22°C to 30°C, ample rainfall, and well-drained soil, according to the Centre for Applied Climate Sciences at the University of Southern Queensland.
Robusta coffee is grown in various regions, including Laos, Thailand, and Ivory Coast. In Africa, other countries cultivating Robusta include the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Madagascar, and Nigeria. In Colombia, Robusta serves as a new crop option, particularly along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts or in the Eastern lowland regions of Orinoquía and the Altillanura. Ecuador introduced Congolensis-type Robusta in 1951. Mexico also cultivates this Robusta coffee variety.
Which Countries Produce Robusta Coffee?
Five major robusta coffee-growing countries are listed below.
- Vietnam
- Brazil
- Indonesia
- Uganda
- India
1. Vietnam
Vietnam leads global Robusta coffee production, contributing around 70% of the global supply. It is also the second-largest coffee producer overall, with Robusta accounting for about 95% of its total coffee output. Vietnam's robusta coffee production for the 2024/25 marketing year is forecasted to reach 27.85 million 60-kg bags, according to the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service. Vietnamese Robusta coffee beans are grown mainly in the Central Highlands, including Buon Ma Thuot and Long Khanh.
2. Brazil
Brazil is the largest global coffee producer and exporter. Robusta coffee plays a key role in domestic consumption, with its production steadily increasing, though it remains smaller than Arabica output. Brazil's Robusta coffee production for the 2024/25 harvest is projected at 21 million bags, according to the USDA. This figure is slightly lower than in previous years due to adverse weather conditions affecting crop yields. The main variety of Robusta coffee beans grown in Brazil is called Conilon. It is primarily cultivated in the states of Espírito Santo, Bahia, and Rondônia, with Espírito Santo being the largest producer.
3. Indonesia
Indonesia ranks as the world’s third-largest producer of Robusta coffee. Its vast land and diverse microclimates create ideal conditions for Robusta cultivation. In 2023/2024 coffee season, Indonesia produced around 9.5 million 60kg bags of robusta coffee, according to Statista. Indonesian robusta coffee beans are categorized by processing methods, such as dry or washed, and by quality grades. Indonesia’s main robusta coffee regions are in Sumatra, particularly Lampung, South Sumatra, and Bengkulu, which contribute most of the country’s robusta output. Smaller volumes are produced in Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Bali, and Flores.
4. Uganda
Uganda produces mainly Robusta coffee, contributing about 80% of the country's coffee output. In the 2023/24 marketing year, Uganda produced approximately 5.87 million bags of Robusta coffee. The USDA projects a slight increase in production in the coming years. Uganda's Robusta coffee is primarily used in instant coffees and blends due to its strong, bold flavor and higher caffeine content. Robusta coffee thrives in Uganda’s lowland areas, particularly in Central, Eastern, and Western regions, including areas around Lake Victoria.
5. India
India ranks as the fifth-largest global producer of Robusta coffee, contributing 72% of its total coffee output. India produced 4,530 thousand 60-kilogram bags of Robusta coffee in the 2023/2024 market year. The primary regions for growing Robusta coffee in India are Karnataka, which produces over 70%, followed by Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Major Indian Robusta coffee varieties include CxR, S.795, Robusta Cherry, and Kaapi Royale. Malabar Robusta is a coffee variety grown in Kerala’s Malabar region. Monsooned Malabar Robusta refers to Malabar Robusta beans processed through "monsooning," a unique method that exposes beans to monsoon winds and moisture to enhance their flavor and reduce acidity.
How is Robusta Coffee Produced?
Robusta coffee production involves several key stages, from cultivation to processing. Robusta coffee is typically planted using vegetative propagation, like clonal propagation, to maintain desirable traits such as high yields and drought tolerance. Robusta coffee plants need substantial water, requiring heavy rainfall during fruit development and reduced rain as the fruit ripens. Robusta beans are harvested either by selective or strip picking. Selective picking, where only ripe cherries are chosen, is more labor-intensive and typically used for Arabica, though it can ensure higher Robusta quality. Strip picking, common for Robusta, removes all cherries at once, regardless of ripeness, and is less labor-intensive but can lower bean quality.
After harvesting, the cherries are sorted by floating them in water to separate ripe cherries from debris and damaged ones. Dry processing involves sun-drying the cherries until their moisture content reaches 10–13%, after which the dried fruits are milled to remove the husks. Wet processing removes the pulp and skin by using washing and aerobic fermentation. Wet hulling, common in Indonesia, dries beans to 20–24% moisture before further processing. Robusta beans are less dense with a more rigid structure and need different roasting than Arabica. Higher charge temperatures and longer development bring out chocolate and spice flavors, and darker roasts mask bitterness.
What Does Robusta Coffee Taste Like?
Robusta coffee has a strong, bold taste with nutty and chocolatey notes and a bitter edge. Its common tasting notes include earthy, rubbery, chocolatey, nutty, and spicy flavors. Factors influencing Robusta's taste include roasting level, brewing method, processing method, and bean origin.
Light roast Robusta coffee has a lighter body, pronounced bitterness, and subtle notes of chocolate and nuttiness. These beans are roasted to a light brown color at temperatures between 380°F and 400°F (193°C–204°C) for a shorter time.
Medium roast Robusta coffee offers a strong, earthy flavor with notes of chocolate, nuts, and a hint of smoke. It has low acidity and avoids excessive bitterness. The beans are roasted to an internal temperature of 400°F–430°F (204°C–221°C) over 10–15 minutes.
Dark roast Robusta coffee offers a bold, intense flavor with earthy, smoky, and bitter notes. It has low acidity and a fuller body, often carrying hints of dark cocoa or spices. These beans are roasted to high temperatures until the second crack, producing a dark brown to nearly black color with visible surface oils.
Brewing, processing, and farming methods affect the taste of Robusta coffee. Espresso, French press, moka pot, and drip brewing highlight its strong, full-bodied flavor. Washed Robusta offers a cleaner, more defined taste, while natural processing brings earthy, nutty notes. Organic Robusta often tastes better than conventional coffee, according to enthusiasts.
Is Robusta Coffee Acidic?
Robusta coffee is less acidic than Arabica coffee. Although Robusta lacks the citrus and phosphoric acids that give Arabica its bright, fruity flavors, it still contains some acidity. It contains more chlorogenic acid, which provides health benefits but does not affect the acidity level found in Arabica. A 2024 study by Robrecht Bollen published in Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems found that Robusta coffee has varied flavors, including sour notes in some hybrids. While smoother, Robusta has some acidity, though less than Arabica.
Is Robusta Coffee Strong?
Yes, Robusta coffee is generally considered strong in both flavor and caffeine. Its strong flavor and high caffeine content make it popular in espresso blends and instant coffee, contributing to a rich crema. Robusta coffee contains about twice as much caffeine as Arabica, typically ranging from 2.2% to 2.7% by weight, which gives it a stronger, more stimulating effect.
How Much Caffeine is in Robusta Coffee?
An 8-ounce (237 ml) cup of Robusta coffee can contain up to 265 milligrams of caffeine, significantly higher than Arabica coffee’s 80-100 milligrams. A 1-ounce (30 ml) shot of Robusta espresso contains approximately 141 mg of caffeine. Robusta coffee beans contain nearly double the caffeine of Arabica beans. Their caffeine content typically ranges from 2.2% to 2.7%. However, a 2023 study by Eko Sutrisno in the Open Global Scientific Journal found that caffeine levels can vary between 1.7% and 4% by weight, depending on brewing method, time, and other factors.
What are the Effects of Robusta Coffee on Health?
Robusta coffee has several health effects, both positive and negative, due to its high caffeine and antioxidant content. According to a 2024 study by Karim Habibi published in GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, chlorogenic acids in Robusta coffee are linked to reduced inflammation, improved blood sugar control, and potential protection against certain cancers. However, excessive caffeine consumption may lead to insomnia, nervousness, increased heart rate, digestive issues, caffeine addiction, and dehydration due to its diuretic effect.
What Are the Benefits of Robusta Coffee?
Potential health benefits of drinking Robusta coffee include improved glucose metabolism, fat oxidation, and muscle health, as well as possible anti-tumor effects. These benefits are supported by the following studies.
- Robusta coffee improves glucose metabolism and fat oxidation, which may support weight loss, according to a 2019 study from the Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine at Aarhus University Hospital. In the study, 14 healthy men consumed either Robusta coffee or a placebo for 4 weeks. Participants who consumed Robusta coffee showed a significant increase in glucose metabolism and fat oxidation compared to the placebo group.
- Robusta coffee combined with exercise may lower myostatin levels, a protein that inhibits muscle growth and contributes to age-related muscle loss. A 2024 study in GSC Advanced Research and Reviews analyzed 46 research papers from 2019 to 2024 and found this combination improves muscle health and may help manage muscle-wasting conditions.
- Robusta coffee extract reduced the growth of human breast, colorectal, brain, and bone cancer cells, according to a 2021 study in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity. The extract was especially effective against breast cancer cells by disrupting their cell cycle, preventing reproduction, and triggering programmed cell death. These anti-tumor effects were confirmed in both traditional 2D and advanced 3D cell models.
What Are the Side Effects of Robusta Coffee?
Drinking Robusta coffee may cause five potential side effects listed below.
- Increased heart rate due to its high caffeine content.
- Digestive issues like acid reflux and stomach irritation.
- Anxiety and jitteriness from excessive caffeine intake.
- Sleep disturbances affecting sleep quality and duration.
- Increased blood pressure posing risks for hypertensive individuals.
What are the Best Robusta Coffee Brands?
The five best Robusta coffee brands are listed below.
- Colipse Coffee
- Nguyen Coffee Supply
- Trung Nguyen Coffee
- Biohazard Coffee
- Banned Coffee
1. Colipse Coffee
Colipse Coffee is an online store specializing in freshly roasted-to-order specialty coffee. Colipse offers Arabica, Robusta, single-origin, and blended coffees. Colipse's India Cherry Robusta beans are some of the best, with a rich, full-bodied flavor of molasses, rye, and dark chocolate, plus low acidity. Each 12-ounce bag is freshly roasted to order (with free U.S. shipping and no minimum orders) for maximum freshness and flavor and arrives within 5 business days.
2. Nguyen Coffee Supply
Nguyen Coffee Supply is the first specialty Vietnamese coffee company in America, importing robusta beans directly from Vietnam and roasting in Brooklyn. Truegrit Coffee, a 100% Peaberry Robusta, delivers a bold coffee experience with strong flavor and high caffeine content. It has tasting notes of Scotch, grapefruit zest, and bitter melon. Nguyen Coffee Supply products are available at Whole Foods, Target, Albertsons, and online.
3. Trung Nguyen Coffee
Trung Nguyen Coffee leads the Vietnamese coffee market with high-quality Robusta beans. G7 Instant Coffee is the best Trung Nguyen Coffee Robusta product due to its convenience, rich flavor, and widespread popularity. Trung Nguyen Coffee's Robusta coffee delivers a strong, bold, and slightly bitter taste with a rich aroma, defining Vietnamese coffee culture. The price of Trung Nguyen Coffee's Robusta products varies by product and location. These products are available in over 60 countries through distributors and retail outlets.
4. Biohazard Coffee
Biohazard Coffee ranks among the strongest robusta coffee brands, delivering 928 mg of caffeine per 12 oz cup. It offers a bold, earthy flavor, making it ideal for those seeking maximum energy without sacrificing taste. Biohazard Coffee is available in 1lb and 5lb bags for $19.99 and $69.99, respectively, with free U.S. shipping. International shipping is not available.
5. Banned Coffee
Banned Coffee is a leading Robusta coffee brand for its balanced taste and strong kick. Banned Coffee's best product is its medium-dark roast Arabica-Robusta blend. It has smooth, bold flavor and high caffeine content, offering a unique combination of taste and energy. It offers a rich, smooth taste with berry and chocolate notes, mild sweetness, and a smooth aftertaste. Banned Coffee is available exclusively on Amazon, with prices varying based on package size and type, including ground or whole beans in 1- and 2-pound bags.
How to Choose the Best Robusta Coffee Beans?
To choose the best Robusta coffee beans, start by following these five steps below.
- Determine Flavor Preferences: Robusta offers bold, earthy, and bitter flavors with hints of chocolate.
- Check Bean Quality: Select fresh, high-quality beans from reliable suppliers.
- Assess Origin: Beans from different regions vary in taste due to altitude and climate.
- Choose the Right Roast: Medium to medium-dark roasts enhance Robusta’s flavor.
- Match to Brewing Method: Robusta is ideal for espresso, French press, and cold brew.
At Colipse, we offer a range of Robusta coffee beans and grounds suitable for espresso, French press, cold brew, pour over, drip, and Moka pot. For optimal flavor, we recommend using freshly roasted Robusta beans, ideally within two weeks of the roast date. Colipse does not sell Robusta decaf coffee beans.
What are the Best Robusta Coffee Beans for Espresso?
The best Robusta coffee beans for espresso are those that offer a balance of strength and flavor. These beans provide a powerful caffeine kick and a rich crema.
What are the Best Robusta Coffee Beans for Cold Brew?
The best Robusta coffee beans for cold brew are those that have a bold flavor profile. These beans should be low in acidity, offer chocolate and nutty notes, and produce a smooth, full-bodied cold brew.
What are the Best Robusta Coffee Beans for French Press?
The best Robusta coffee beans for French press are the ones that have a medium-dark roast. These beans offer a full-bodied flavor with a strong, bold taste.
Where to Buy Robusta Coffee Beans?
Robusta coffee beans and grounds are available for sale from a variety of online and in-store retailers. Some companies, like Colipse, specialize in freshly roasted Robusta beans, offering both whole bean and ground options to cater to customer preferences. Colipse has a wide range of single-origin Robusta coffees and Robusta blends to suit diverse tastes. Colipse offers Robusta coffee for sale online in convenient 12 oz bags.
What is the Price of Robusta Coffee?
At Colipse, we offer a variety of Robusta coffee online, each with its own price. Our most affordable option is the Italian Roast Blend, priced at $19.95 per bag. Our blends featuring a mix of Robusta and Arabica beans are generally priced around $22.50 per bag. For the discerning palate, we offer our single-origin 100% Robusta coffee beans and grounds from India, a premium coffee priced at $24.50 per bag. All orders ship for free.
Is Robusta Coffee Good?
Yes, Robusta coffee is good for strong flavor and high caffeine content. It has a bold, bitter taste with earthy and nutty notes. Robusta beans contain more caffeine than Arabica, making them ideal for espresso blends. They are also more resistant to pests and grow at lower altitudes, making them easier to cultivate.
What are some Coffee Bean Types besides Robusta?
Besides Robusta, other three coffee bean types are Arabica, Liberica, and Excelsa. Arabica beans are the most popular coffee beans, making up about 60–70% of all coffee grown worldwide. They have a smooth, tasty flavor. Liberica and Excelsa beans are less common. They have unique fruity or tart flavors and are often mixed with other beans for special coffee blends.
What is the Difference between Robusta vs Arabica?
Robusta and Arabica coffee beans differ in growing conditions, chemical makeup, and flavor. Robusta originates in equatorial African rainforests, growing at lower altitudes (up to 1,500 meters) in hot, humid climates. It resists coffee rust and some pests. Arabica originates in the Ethiopian highlands, requiring higher altitudes (1,300–2,000 meters) and cooler temperatures. Robusta needs cross-pollination to reproduce, while Arabica can self-pollinate. Robusta yields more than Arabica, contributing to its lower cost. Robusta has a stronger, bitter taste due to higher caffeine, often used in instant coffee and blends. Arabica has a sweeter, nuanced flavor, favored for specialty coffees. Robusta's higher caffeine content is a natural defense against pests and diseases.
Which is Better Robusta or Arabica?
Arabica coffee is often considered better than Robusta coffee for its smoother taste and complex aromas, although recent trends suggest that the lines are blurring. The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) notes a growing interest in developing specialty Robusta coffee beans with higher quality hybrids of Robusta and Arabica, such as the Timor Hybrid, that have higher cupping scores and are more resistant to leaf rust.
The commission also observes that while many consumers prefer Arabica coffee, several major coffee brands, such as Blue Bottle Coffee, Peet’s Coffee, and Starbucks, are either considering serving Robusta or have already begun offering 100 percent Robusta options. This indicates a potential shift in consumer perceptions and a growing appreciation for the unique qualities of Robusta.
What Are the Facts About of Robusta Coffee?
The five facts about Robusta coffee are listed below.
- Record Prices: Robusta futures reached record highs in 2024—Reuters reported that robusta prices hit a 47‑year peak as tight supplies and weather challenges squeezed the market.
- Supply Challenges: Adverse weather conditions in major producing regions (like Vietnam and Brazil) led to a tightening of robusta supplies, with forecasts indicating potential production deficits for the 2023/24 season.
- Breeding Innovations: World Coffee Research launched a global robusta breeding initiative in 2024. Their program, which began crosses in April 2024, aims to develop clones with improved yield, disease resistance, and climate resilience.
- Production Forecasts: Industry forecasts for 2024/25 predicted that Vietnam’s robusta production could reach around 30–32 million bags, while Brazil’s production might rise to 18–20 million bags, driven by more favorable growing conditions.
- Export Market Impact: Global export dynamics were affected as robusta became even more valuable—news reported that in India, robusta was fetching a premium (about $250 per ton over benchmark prices), contributing to tighter global supply conditions.