Caffeine Content in The Human Bean's Signature Drinks
When you're grabbing a coffee from The Human Bean, knowing the caffeine content can help you manage your daily intake. While some of their drinks, particularly the proprietary energy beverages, have their caffeine amounts clearly published, the levels in traditional espresso-based drinks can vary based on serving size and the number of espresso shots included.
Breaking Down Bright® Energy
One of the most popular and clearly defined drinks in The Human Bean's lineup is the Bright® Energy series. As a key marketing point, the company is transparent about the caffeine levels in these beverages.
- Bright® Energy drinks: A standard 16 oz can of any flavor, such as Original, Lime, or flavor-infused varieties like 'Lucky' or 'Poolside', contains 160 mg of caffeine.
- Caffeine Source: The energy boost comes from "clean caffeine" extracted from green coffee beans, which is paired with B vitamins, Ginseng Root, and L-Carnitine for a sustained energy release without the crash often associated with other energy drinks.
Espresso Drinks: Lattes, Americanos, and Mochas
For traditional coffee beverages, the caffeine content is determined by the number of espresso shots. A standard single espresso shot, depending on the bean and preparation, contains approximately 63 mg of caffeine. The Human Bean offers a range of sizes, which influences the number of shots included.
- Espresso Shots: While the exact recipe can vary by barista, it is common for larger sizes of espresso-based drinks to receive more shots. For instance, a small (12oz) might get a single shot, while a large (24oz) or extra-large (32oz) would contain two or more. This means the caffeine level directly correlates with your selected drink size.
- Americanos: These drinks, a simple combination of espresso and hot water, can be particularly potent. For example, the official menu confirms that an Americano provides an "extra boost" due to its espresso base.
The Variability of Brewed Coffee
The caffeine in standard brewed coffee and cold brew also varies. The Human Bean's signature Cold Brew offers a smooth and robust flavor profile, and like any cold brew, it likely contains a higher concentration of caffeine per ounce than traditional brewed coffee. A standard 8oz cup of regular brewed coffee contains 80-100 mg of caffeine, but the concentration depends heavily on the bean type, roast, and brewing process.
Decaf Options and Lower-Caffeine Alternatives
For those who are sensitive to caffeine or looking to reduce their intake, The Human Bean offers several alternatives. These include decaffeinated versions of espresso drinks and other non-coffee options.
- Decaf Coffee: Despite the name, decaffeinated coffee is not completely caffeine-free and typically contains about 2 mg of caffeine per 8oz cup.
- Matcha: Rich in antioxidants, matcha provides a different kind of energy boost without the typical caffeine jitters.
- Tea: The Human Bean offers a variety of teas, which contain varying levels of caffeine, generally less than a cup of brewed coffee.
How Caffeine Content is Determined
Several factors can influence the final caffeine content of a cup of coffee:
- Bean Type: Robusta beans can have up to twice the caffeine of Arabica beans. The Human Bean's specific blends are proprietary, so the exact mix of beans may vary.
- Roast Level: Contrary to popular belief, a darker roast typically contains slightly less caffeine than a lighter roast because the roasting process reduces the caffeine content.
- Brewing Method: Different methods, from espresso machines to cold brewing, extract varying amounts of caffeine from the grounds. Cold brew, for example, steeps coffee grounds for a long period, resulting in a potent concentration.
- Serving Size: Larger drinks obviously contain more liquid, and if more espresso shots or brewed coffee are added, the total caffeine content increases.
Comparison Table: Caffeine at The Human Bean
| Drink Type | Average Caffeine Range (Size Dependent) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bright® Energy (16 oz) | 160 mg | Fixed amount per can, sourced from green coffee beans. |
| Americano | 60 - 200+ mg | Varies by number of espresso shots; a 12oz might get one shot (~63mg), while larger sizes get two or more. |
| Latte/Mocha | 60 - 200+ mg | Also depends on the number of espresso shots and size. Flavors and milk do not add caffeine. |
| Cold Brew | Varies, but likely higher concentration | Steeping process yields a concentrated, strong coffee with varying but often high caffeine levels. |
| Brewed Coffee | 80 - 200+ mg (8-24oz) | General range; actual amount depends on the specific bean blend and size. |
| Matcha Latte | 30 - 70 mg (approx.) | Contains caffeine, but generally less than coffee, and provides a different type of energy boost. |
| Decaf Coffee | ~2 mg (8 oz) | Contains minimal caffeine, not zero. |
Conclusion
While The Human Bean's Bright® Energy drinks offer a predictable 160 mg of caffeine per 16 oz, the caffeine in their traditional coffee beverages can vary significantly based on your order. The best way to ensure you're getting your desired caffeine level is to ask your barista about the number of espresso shots in your drink. With a variety of high-caffeine and lower-caffeine options, The Human Bean caters to all energy needs.
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