Does Barley Coffee Have Caffeine in It?

December 14, 2025 •

4 min read

According to research, one in three adults consumes more than the recommended daily limit of caffeine. Many are unaware that roasted barley, used to create the popular coffee alternative, contains no caffeine. This makes it an ideal option for those seeking a warm beverage with a familiar flavor without the stimulating effects of traditional coffee.

Quick Summary

Barley coffee, also known as caffè d'orzo, is made from roasted and ground barley grains, containing zero caffeine. This makes it a popular caffeine-free beverage suitable for all ages and perfect for those with caffeine sensitivity or those looking to reduce their intake. It has a rich, nutty flavor reminiscent of regular coffee but without the stimulating effects.

Key Points

Caffeine-Free: Barley coffee contains zero caffeine, making it a safe choice for those sensitive to stimulants, children, and pregnant women.
Not a True Coffee: It is made from roasted and ground barley grains, not coffee beans, which gives it a mild, nutty, and toasted flavor.
Digestive Aid: The high fiber content in barley coffee promotes healthy digestion and bowel regularity.
Rich in Nutrients: This beverage is a good source of minerals like potassium and magnesium, as well as B vitamins and antioxidants.
Gentle on the Stomach: Unlike regular coffee, it is less acidic and gentler on the digestive system, reducing the risk of discomfort.
Multiple Preparation Methods: Can be brewed using a moka pot, made from instant powder, or infused from roasted grains.
Contains Gluten: As a cereal grain, barley naturally contains gluten and is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease.
International Popularity: Known as 'caffè d'orzo' in Italy and 'mugicha' in Japan, this drink has a rich history across different cultures.

A Natural, Caffeine-Free Alternative

Barley coffee is a centuries-old beverage, particularly popular in Italy, Japan, and other parts of the world. It is made by roasting and grinding barley grains, which are naturally caffeine-free. The roasting process gives the drink a deep, toasty aroma and a flavor that is often compared to traditional coffee, but with a smoother, less acidic profile. This makes it an excellent alternative for those who enjoy the ritual and taste of coffee but wish to avoid the side effects of caffeine, such as nervousness, jitters, or insomnia. The complete absence of caffeine means it can be enjoyed at any time of day, including in the evening, without disrupting sleep.

Health Benefits Beyond the Lack of Caffeine

Beyond its caffeine-free nature, barley coffee offers several health benefits due to the nutritional properties of the barley grain. It is rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels. It also contains minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium, as well as B vitamins and vitamin E.

Here are some of the key health benefits associated with consuming barley coffee:

Digestive Health: Its high fiber content supports a healthy digestive system, promotes bowel regularity, and helps prevent constipation.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Barley contains beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that can slow the absorption of carbohydrates and help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Rich in Antioxidants: The antioxidants found in barley help protect the body's cells from oxidative stress.
Heart Health: Some research suggests that barley can help reduce cholesterol levels, supporting cardiovascular well-being.
Reduced Inflammation: Barley's anti-inflammatory properties can contribute to overall wellness.
Nutrient-Dense: It is a source of various vitamins and minerals, including B-complex vitamins, magnesium, and potassium.

Preparation Methods for Barley Coffee

Preparing barley coffee is straightforward, with several methods available depending on the product and your preference. You can find pre-roasted and ground barley coffee, instant soluble powder, or even pods and capsules for modern machines.

Moka Pot: Fill the bottom reservoir with water, add the ground barley to the filter basket (don't tamp too tightly), and place it on low heat. The resulting brew is rich and concentrated, similar to an espresso.
Instant Soluble: The quickest method involves simply dissolving a spoonful of instant barley powder in a cup of hot water. It can be enjoyed black or with milk and sweetener.
Traditional Infusion: For a more rustic approach, you can boil roasted barley grains in water for several minutes and then strain the liquid before serving.

Barley Coffee vs. Regular Coffee Comparison


Feature	Barley Coffee	Regular Coffee
Caffeine Content	Zero. Naturally caffeine-free.	High. Contains significant amounts of caffeine.
Taste Profile	Nutty, toasted, slightly sweet, and less acidic.	Robust, bitter, and typically more acidic.
Effect on Body	Calming. Provides a mild, sustained energy boost from nutrients.	Stimulating. Causes energy peaks and crashes due to caffeine.
Digestive Impact	Gentle on the stomach; can improve digestion due to fiber.	Can cause stomach acidity or irritation for some individuals.
Nutritional Value	Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins (B, E), and minerals.	Offers some antioxidants but less fiber.
Sleep Impact	Safe to drink in the evening as it does not disrupt sleep.	Can cause insomnia and restlessness if consumed later in the day.
Best for...	Those sensitive to caffeine, children, or seeking a calming beverage.	Those who want a significant energy boost and enjoy the taste of traditional coffee.

Conclusion: A Wholesome Alternative for a Calmer Day

Barley coffee is more than just a substitute; it is a delicious and healthy beverage in its own right, celebrated for centuries around the world. Its complete lack of caffeine removes the risk of jitters, insomnia, and digestive upset that many experience with regular coffee. With its rich, nutty flavor and a host of health benefits, it provides a perfect option for anyone looking for a warm, comforting drink at any time of day. Whether you are cutting back on caffeine, sensitive to its effects, or simply exploring healthier alternatives, roasted barley offers a satisfying and nutritious choice.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

While generally very safe and well-tolerated, barley coffee is not without its considerations. As barley is a cereal grain, it does contain gluten, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity. Additionally, like any toasted starchy product, the roasting process can create trace amounts of acrylamide. However, this is typically only a concern with excessive consumption, and moderate intake is considered safe. For those with no gluten issues, it remains a fantastic option for a healthy, caffeine-free beverage.

Learn more about barley's general nutritional properties on the USDA's FoodData Central website (Note: This link does not specifically detail coffee but covers the nutritional profile of the base grain).

How to Make Your Own Barley Coffee

To prepare your own barley coffee from whole grains, simply follow these steps:

Roast the Grains: Spread cleaned, hulled barley grains on a baking sheet. Roast them in an oven at 160-170°C (325-340°F) for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15-20 minutes until they are a deep golden brown and fragrant.
Cool and Grind: Allow the roasted grains to cool completely. Grind them into a fine powder using a blender or a coffee grinder.
Brew: Brew the ground barley just as you would regular coffee, using a moka pot, French press, or a coffee maker. Adjust the brewing time and amount of powder to your desired strength.

Conclusion

For those wondering, “Does barley coffee have caffeine in it?”, the clear and definitive answer is no. This traditional grain-based beverage offers a rich, comforting flavor and numerous health benefits without the stimulating effects of caffeine. Its versatility in preparation, from instant powder to traditional brewing, makes it an accessible and attractive option for a wide audience seeking a healthy, calming, and delicious drink.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, barley coffee is widely considered a healthy beverage. It is rich in nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and its caffeine-free nature and low acidity can be beneficial for those with sensitive stomachs or caffeine sensitivity.

Barley coffee has a unique flavor profile that is often described as nutty, toasted, and slightly sweet. It mimics the aroma and ritual of regular coffee but with a milder, smoother, and less bitter taste.

Yes, because it is completely free of caffeine, barley coffee is a safe and healthy beverage option for pregnant women and children.

Yes, you can drink barley coffee in the evening. Since it contains no caffeine, it will not disrupt your sleep and is an excellent calming, warm beverage to enjoy before bed.

No, barley coffee is not gluten-free. As barley is a cereal grain, it naturally contains gluten, and therefore it should be avoided by individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

The main differences are that barley coffee is made from roasted barley and contains zero caffeine, while regular coffee is made from roasted coffee beans and is high in caffeine. Barley coffee is also less acidic and has a different flavor profile.

Barley coffee can be found in several forms, including instant powder, ground form for brewing, and pods for espresso machines. It is available in many supermarkets, health food stores, and online retailers.