Tag: Espresso vs coffee

With a typical pH range of 5.5 to 6.0, espresso is generally less acidic than drip coffee, which often measures between 5.0 and 5.3 on the pH scale. This difference, along with other factors, plays a significant role in how each brew affects your digestive system and sensitive stomach.

Contrary to popular belief, a single espresso shot contains less total caffeine than a standard 8-ounce cup of drip coffee. This common misconception is a frequent debate among coffee lovers, but understanding the crucial differences answers the question: is one espresso shot equal to a cup of coffee?

According to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), a standard single shot of espresso is typically defined as 0.85 to 1.2 ounces, a measurement that is far smaller than the volume of a quarter cup. The idea that a single shot of espresso is 1/4 cup is a common coffee myth, as the true measurement is closer to 1 ounce. This confusion often stems from the concentrated nature of espresso and the varying sizes of traditional coffee cups.

A 1-ounce shot of espresso has around 63 milligrams of caffeine, while an 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee contains approximately 95 milligrams. The key difference in how much coffee is in espresso compared to coffee lies in concentration and serving size, which dramatically affects the total caffeine and perceived strength of each beverage.

According to the FDA, most healthy adults can safely consume up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day without experiencing negative side effects. This equates to approximately four to five shots of espresso, depending on the brew strength. Navigating the line between a healthy daily habit and overconsumption is key to enjoying this concentrated brew without concern.

While a single shot of espresso contains less total caffeine than an average 8-ounce cup of drip coffee, it is significantly more concentrated per fluid ounce. This difference in concentration is why many perceive an espresso shot as having a more powerful and immediate effect, but the overall caffeine delivery depends on the total volume consumed.

According to a 2024 survey, 27% of Americans prefer regular filter coffee over espresso, proving the debate is far from over. For coffee lovers, deciding whether espresso coffee is better than regular coffee is a deeply personal choice, dependent on individual preferences for flavor, brewing style, and caffeine impact.

According to a 2022 study in the journal *Open Heart*, consuming three to five cups of espresso daily is associated with increased total cholesterol levels, especially in men. This challenges the idea that espresso is an unequivocally healthy coffee option.

According to the FDA, up to 400mg of caffeine per day is generally safe for most healthy adults. But for many, the question remains: is espresso ok for you, specifically? While coffee in general has potential health benefits, the concentrated nature of espresso brings up unique considerations for health and wellness.

According to coffee experts, a standard flat white typically contains 126-150 milligrams of caffeine, while a larger cup of drip coffee can often have a comparable or even higher total amount. The key difference lies in concentration and serving size, which is why the question of what has more caffeine, a flat white or coffee, requires a detailed look at the numbers.