Does Coffee Have a Lot of Nickel? Unpacking the Metals in Your Mug

October 5, 2025 •

4 min read

Trace amounts of nickel are found naturally in coffee, absorbed from the soil and water where coffee plants grow, as is common with many plants. For the vast majority of people, this is not a concern, but for individuals with a high sensitivity to nickel, the question, "Does coffee have a lot of nickel?" becomes a critical dietary consideration.

Quick Summary

Coffee contains low, trace amounts of nickel, which can be influenced by bean origin and processing. Certain brewing methods and equipment, particularly older metal coffee machines, can increase the nickel content. This can be a concern for those with systemic nickel allergy syndrome (SNAS), though it is generally not an issue for most consumers.

Key Points

Trace Amounts are Natural: Coffee beans naturally contain small amounts of nickel, absorbed from the soil, which is typical for many plant-based foods.
Brewing Method Matters: The highest risk of increased nickel exposure from coffee comes from leaching from old or poorly maintained metal brewing equipment, like espresso and drip coffee machines.
High Sensitivity is the Concern: While safe for most, the nickel in coffee can be a trigger for individuals with Systemic Nickel Allergy Syndrome (SNAS), leading to symptoms like dermatitis and gastrointestinal issues.
Not a Primary Source for Most: For the general population, other foods like cocoa, oats, and legumes are typically much higher sources of dietary nickel than coffee.
Control is Possible: Those with high nickel sensitivity can reduce their exposure by using non-metal brewing equipment and being mindful of their tap water quality.

The Natural Presence of Nickel in Coffee

Nickel is a metal found naturally throughout the Earth's crust and is a ubiquitous presence in soil and water. As a result, many plants, including coffee plants, absorb and accumulate small amounts of nickel as they grow. The level of nickel present in coffee beans can vary significantly based on several factors, primarily related to agricultural practices and the local environment.

Where the Nickel Comes From

Soil Composition: The mineral content of the soil where the coffee beans are cultivated is a primary factor determining the final nickel content. Soil composition is influenced by geographical region, fertilizer use, and proximity to industrial activity.
Plant Biology: Different varieties of coffee plants may absorb metals at different rates. For instance, studies have shown variations in mineral content between Arabica and Robusta beans.
Agricultural Practices: The use of certain pesticides and fertilizers can also introduce or affect the uptake of trace metals by the plant.
Processing: The handling and processing of coffee beans, including drying and roasting, can slightly alter the concentration of various elements. One study noted a decrease in nickel content after roasting, though results can vary.

Brewing Methods and Nickel Exposure

While the nickel naturally occurring in coffee beans is generally very low, the brewing process can introduce additional nickel, particularly for those using certain types of equipment. This leaching is more pronounced with hot, acidic liquids like coffee, especially when the metal components of a machine are old, worn, or poorly maintained.

Potential for Nickel Leaching from Equipment

Espresso and Coffee Machines: Studies have demonstrated that coffee made in espresso machines can contain significantly more nickel than instant coffee, mainly due to leaching from internal components like the heating unit and piping made of chrome-nickel steel or other alloys. Leaching can be especially high after a descaling cycle.
Moka Pots and Other Devices: Brewing coffee in moka pots, particularly those made of steel, can lead to higher concentrations of nickel in the final brew. The initial flow of water from a tap that has been standing in metal pipes overnight can also carry higher nickel levels.
Acidic Conditions: Coffee is a low-pH, or acidic, beverage. This acidity can enhance the corrosive effect on metal parts over time, increasing the release of metal ions like nickel into the brewed coffee.

Is Coffee High in Nickel? A Comparison

To put the nickel content of coffee into perspective, it's helpful to compare it with other common food items. While some vegetables and whole grains contain naturally higher levels of nickel, the concern with coffee often stems from the method of preparation, which can add to the baseline levels.


Food/Beverage Category	Typical Nickel Content	Source of Nickel	Implications for Sensitive Individuals
Coffee (brewed)	Low to moderate (increases with equipment leaching)	Beans, brewing equipment	Moderate concern; depends on brewing method and personal sensitivity
Instant Coffee	Often contains very little nickel	Minimal; no contact with internal metal parts	Low concern
Cocoa Powder	High (e.g., 11.1 mg/kg)	Plant-based, often naturally high	High concern, often avoided on low-nickel diets
Oats/Oatmeal	High	Plant-based, a known source	High concern, typically avoided on low-nickel diets
Legumes (Lentils, Peas)	High	Plant-based	High concern, often avoided
Nuts & Seeds	High	Plant-based	High concern, frequently restricted

Systemic Nickel Allergy and Dietary Considerations

For the vast majority of the population, the trace amounts of nickel in coffee are harmless. However, for a small subset of individuals with a known nickel allergy, particularly those with Systemic Nickel Allergy Syndrome (SNAS), even low dietary exposure can trigger symptoms. SNAS symptoms can extend beyond the typical skin-contact dermatitis to include gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, and generalized eczema flare-ups.

For these individuals, a low-nickel diet is often recommended by a healthcare provider. Because coffee is a moderate-to-high nickel food, it is frequently listed as an item to consume in moderation or avoid entirely. Interestingly, some research also suggests that co-ingestion of milk or vitamin C might inhibit nickel absorption, though this is not a substitute for dietary management.

Managing Your Nickel Intake from Coffee

If you have a diagnosed nickel sensitivity or suspect you do, here are some actionable steps to manage your nickel intake from coffee:

Choose Your Brewing Method Wisely: Opt for brewing methods that use non-metal or nickel-free materials. A French press with a glass carafe, a ceramic pour-over device, or using a nickel-free stainless steel kettle are good alternatives.
Check Your Equipment: Be aware of the materials used in your automatic coffee or espresso machine. Older or poorly maintained machines with internal chrome-nickel steel parts are more likely to leach nickel. Consider manual or alternative machines if concerned.
Use Pure Water: Use filtered or bottled water for brewing. The nickel content in tap water can be influenced by the plumbing. Additionally, let the tap run for a few seconds before using the water for brewing, as initial flow can contain higher concentrations of metals.
Monitor Symptoms: For individuals with SNAS, careful monitoring of symptoms after consuming coffee is essential. In consultation with a doctor or allergist, a temporary elimination diet might be advised to determine if coffee is a trigger for your specific symptoms.

Conclusion

Does coffee have a lot of nickel? The answer is that coffee naturally contains trace amounts, and while not a significant source for most, it can become a notable factor depending on individual sensitivity and brewing methods. For the average person, the levels are not a concern and fall well within safety limits. However, for those with systemic nickel allergy, it is a known trigger food that should be managed as part of a low-nickel diet. By being mindful of bean selection and especially brewing equipment, those with sensitivities can make informed choices to minimize their exposure.

For more detailed information on dietary nickel and allergies, consult your healthcare provider or visit reputable sources like the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, coffee beans absorb trace amounts of nickel from the soil and water where they are grown. The exact amount can vary based on geographical location and agricultural practices.

Yes, coffee and espresso machines, especially older models or those with nickel-containing steel parts, can leach nickel into your beverage during the brewing process. This is particularly noticeable after descaling.

No, for the average person, the trace amounts of nickel found in coffee are not a health concern and are well within safe consumption limits. The risk is primarily for those with a high sensitivity, known as SNAS.

In individuals with Systemic Nickel Allergy Syndrome (SNAS), consuming coffee could potentially trigger a flare-up. Symptoms can include skin reactions (dermatitis) and other systemic issues.

Instant coffee tends to have very low nickel content. Brewed coffee, however, can have higher levels depending on the brewing equipment used, as metal parts can leach additional nickel into the final drink.

To reduce nickel exposure, you can use brewing equipment made of non-metal materials like glass or ceramic. Using filtered water and running the tap for a few moments before filling your kettle can also help.

Many common foods contain higher levels of nickel than coffee, including cocoa powder, oats, legumes (like lentils and peas), and nuts. For those on a low-nickel diet, these foods are often the primary focus of restriction.