Which? measured the caffeine in drinks at five big coffee chains and found “huge differences”.
Image source, Getty ImagesIf you pick up a coffee when you’re out and about the levels of caffeine could vary hugely depending where you stop, new research suggests.
Consumer group Which? measured the caffeine in cappuccino, espresso and filter coffee at Caffè Nero, Costa, Greggs, Pret a Manger and Starbucks.
It found Pret’s single espresso had six times as much caffeine as Starbucks’s.
While a strong coffee might be just the boost you need, Which? said consumers should be alert to caffeine levels.
“Our research shows you may be consuming significantly more, or less, caffeine than you bargained for,” said Shefalee Loth, a nutritionist at Which?
“Most of the time this shouldn’t be an issue but if you drink a lot of coffee or need to limit your caffeine intake you might want to consider what you’re ordering and where from.”
Caffeine is a natural stimulant that affects your brain and nervous system, making you more alert and increasing attention.
However, some people are sensitive to it or need to avoid it for health reasons, such as being pregnant.
The caffeine charts
- Costa had the strongest medium cappuccino with 325mg of caffeine – equal to four cups of tea
- A Starbucks cappuccino contained the least at 66mg – less than the 75mg in a single tea bag
- Greggs and Pret a Manger had the second and third-strongest cappuccino at 197mg and 180mg respectively
- Pret‘s single espresso was strongest at 180mg
- Starbucks’ espresso was bottom of the table at just 33mg
- Pret topped the list for the most caffeinated filter coffee at 271mg a cup
- Greggs was a close second at 225mg
- Starbucks was again the least caffeinated at 102mg
Source: Which?
One factor that can impact caffeine content of drinks is the type of coffee bean. Of the two main types used, Arabica beans contain around half the caffeine of Robusta beans, and there are also variations in taste between the two.
Which? said consumers seeking a bigger caffeine boost might want to opt for a drink with a higher amount. However, people who need to limit their intake should avoid the stronger coffees.
Costa Coffee said the amount of caffeine in its drinks varied depending on size of a drink and the type of coffee used.
“We would encourage customers to be aware of the caffeine content in their favourite Costa coffee to ensure it is right for their dietary requirements or lifestyle choice,” a spokeswoman said.
The BBC has contacted Caffè Nero, Greggs, Pret a Manger and Starbucks for comment.
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