Is Postum a good substitute for coffee?

January 12, 2026 •

4 min read

Postum, a caffeine-free beverage made from roasted wheat and molasses, was first introduced in 1895 as a health-conscious alternative to coffee. Its creators positioned it as a wholesome substitute, leading to its widespread popularity among those seeking to avoid the stimulating effects of caffeine.

Quick Summary

Postum is a caffeine-free, roasted grain beverage with a smooth, nutty flavor that serves as a coffee alternative for those avoiding caffeine or acidity. While it offers a distinct taste and rich aroma, it does not perfectly mimic the complex bitterness or stimulating effects of coffee.

Key Points

Caffeine-Free Alternative: Postum is a 100% caffeine-free beverage, making it ideal for those seeking to reduce or eliminate caffeine intake.
Unique Flavor Profile: Unlike coffee, Postum has a smooth, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor derived from roasted wheat and molasses.
Gentle on the Stomach: With its low acidity, Postum is a suitable option for individuals with sensitive stomachs or acid reflux issues.
Not a Coffee Clone: Do not expect Postum to taste exactly like coffee; its flavor is distinct and milder, appealing to a different palate.
Contains Wheat: Individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease should avoid Postum, as it is made from wheat and is not gluten-free.
Easy to Prepare: As an instant powder, Postum is simple to prepare by just adding hot water or milk.

What is Postum, anyway?

Postum is a roasted grain beverage that has been around for well over a century, first created by C.W. Post in 1895 as a healthier option than coffee. Unlike coffee, which is made from roasted beans, Postum is made from simple, natural ingredients like roasted wheat bran, wheat, and molasses. This unique blend gives it a flavor profile that is often described as smooth, nutty, and slightly sweet, with a comforting, earthy aroma. The instant version, which is what is commonly available today, is simply mixed with hot water or milk for an easy-to-prepare drink.

The flavor and feel: Postum vs. coffee

One of the most important distinctions to make is that Postum is not a direct clone of coffee. While it shares some characteristics—it is brown, warm, and often enjoyed with milk or sweetener—it has its own distinct character.

Postum's flavor profile

Smoother, less acidic taste: Many people prefer Postum's milder taste, which lacks the bitterness and acidity that can cause digestive issues for some coffee drinkers.
Nutty and sweet notes: The roasted wheat and molasses give Postum a profile with subtle nutty and caramel-like undertones.
Comforting aroma: The roasted grain aroma is often associated with warmth and nostalgia, especially for those who grew up with it.

Coffee's classic appeal

Complex, bitter flavor: True coffee lovers appreciate the robust, often bitter, and complex flavor notes of coffee, which Postum does not replicate.
Acidity and intensity: For some, the acidity and strong flavor of coffee are part of its appeal and morning ritual.

Key benefits of substituting coffee with Postum

There are several reasons why individuals choose to make the switch to Postum, with caffeine avoidance being the most significant.

100% Caffeine-Free: Postum contains no caffeine, making it an excellent option for those who experience jitters, anxiety, or sleeplessness from caffeine consumption.
Gentle on the Stomach: Without the acidity of coffee, Postum is a gentler, stomach-friendly alternative for individuals with sensitive digestive systems.
Warmth without the Wake-up: For people who enjoy the ritual of a warm morning or evening beverage but don't want the stimulating effects, Postum provides that comforting experience.
Natural Ingredients: Postum is made from simple, natural ingredients and contains no preservatives, sodium, or GMOs.

Potential drawbacks to consider

While a great alternative for many, Postum is not for everyone.

Not a taste-alike: Anyone expecting an identical coffee flavor will be disappointed. Postum has its own unique, milder taste.
Contains Wheat: Because it is made from roasted wheat and wheat bran, Postum is not a gluten-free product and is unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Can be pricey: As a specialty beverage, Postum can sometimes be more expensive per serving than standard coffee grounds.

Postum vs. Coffee: A comparison


Feature	Postum	Coffee
Caffeine	None (100% caffeine-free)	Contains caffeine (stimulant)
Main Ingredients	Roasted wheat, wheat bran, molasses	Roasted coffee beans
Flavor Profile	Smooth, nutty, slightly sweet, caramel undertones	Rich, complex, often bitter or acidic
Acidity	Low acidity, gentle on the stomach	Higher acidity, can cause digestive upset
Preparation	Instant powder mixed with hot water	Requires brewing (drip, press, espresso)
Energy Boost	None, provides a calming, warming effect	Provides an alert, stimulating effect due to caffeine
Dietary Concerns	Contains wheat (not gluten-free)	Naturally gluten-free

Who should consider switching to Postum?

Individuals sensitive to caffeine: If you experience anxiety, jitters, or headaches from caffeine, Postum offers a satisfying hot beverage without the side effects.
Those with digestive issues: People with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs may find Postum's lower acidity more tolerable.
Evening beverage drinkers: Postum is a perfect warm drink for the evening, as it won't interfere with sleep.
Those seeking a different flavor experience: If you enjoy exploring new beverages, Postum's unique roasted grain and molasses flavor provides a delightful change of pace from coffee or tea.

Conclusion: The final verdict

Is Postum a good substitute for coffee? The answer depends on what you're looking for in a beverage. For those seeking a one-to-one flavor match and the stimulating effects of caffeine, Postum will likely disappoint. However, if your goal is to reduce or eliminate caffeine, find a stomach-friendly alternative, or simply enjoy a comforting, flavorful warm drink, Postum is an excellent choice. It is a time-honored beverage with its own unique merits, offering a distinct experience that has pleased generations of drinkers who appreciate its mild, nutty, and sweet profile. As with any food or drink, personal taste is the ultimate guide, but for a caffeine-free life, Postum certainly makes a worthy contender for a daily ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

For those sensitive to caffeine, Postum is healthier because it is completely caffeine-free and less acidic, which can prevent jitters and digestive upset. However, it is not healthier for those with gluten intolerance, as it contains wheat.

No, Postum does not taste exactly like coffee. While it has a roasted flavor and can be served with milk and sugar, its taste is milder, smoother, nutty, and slightly sweet, lacking the characteristic bitterness and acidity of coffee.

No, Postum is not gluten-free. It is made from roasted wheat and wheat bran and is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Yes, Postum is a great choice for a warm evening beverage. Because it is 100% caffeine-free, it will not interfere with your sleep.

Original Postum is made from a simple blend of roasted wheat, roasted wheat bran, and molasses. Other flavors may contain additional natural flavorings.

To prepare Postum, simply mix 1-2 teaspoons of the instant powder with hot water or milk. You can sweeten it to taste or add milk for a creamier consistency.

Postum was discontinued by Kraft Foods in 2007 due to low sales. Following a passionate campaign by loyal fans, the rights were purchased by Eliza's Quest Foods, who brought it back to market in 2012.