Why do people drink decaf? Well, it’s not just about being able to drink coffee past noon: Aside from reducing jitters and improving sleep, many choose decaffeinated coffee for health considerations. Those who are pregnant, sensitive to caffeine, or have other health concerns can drink decaf to enjoy coffee without the side effects. But how can you tell the difference? Read on to find out.

 

Taste Difference

The taste difference between decaf coffee and regular coffee can be quite subtle, but to the trained palate it can be easy to notice. Because of the decaffeination process, decaf coffee tends to have a milder, less bitter, essentially a less “coffee-like” taste. High-quality decaf coffee however, like those that go through the Swiss Water Process, preserve more of its original flavor so you can enjoy the same great taste. To find high-quality decaf coffee, be sure to take a look at its origin, decaffeination method, and roasting process.

 

Caffeine Content

It’s a common misconception that decaf coffee has zero caffeine. The decaffeination process can remove around 97% of caffeine, but a small amount may still remain. Regular coffee typically has about 95mg of caffeine, while decaf will have about 2-15mg, an amount too low to cause significant side effects. Still, it’s worth counting if you consume caffeine in different ways as it can all add up. It is recommended that adults consume no more than 400mg of caffeine in a day, which is around 4 regular cups of coffee.

 

Health Benefits

Decaf coffee is a great alternative for those who experience negative side effects such as caffeine sensitivity. Caffeine tolerance varies from person to person, where one might drink four cups a day and still feel terrific, while those with a lower tolerance will feel side effects after just one or two cups. Those with caffeine sensitivity have a lower tolerance for caffeine than the average person, often experiencing symptoms like nausea, jitters, and anxiety. Decaf coffee offers these people a way to enjoy the drink while mitigating symptoms.

 

Sleepyhead Decaf Blend

Looking for high-quality decaf coffee? We have our very own decaf blend at Plain Sight! Our best-selling Sleepyhead Decaf is a Brazil blend that goes through the Swiss Water Process, removing most of the caffeine while still preserving its delicious coffee taste. You wouldn’t think that it’s decaf!

Here’s what our customers have to say:

 

Enjoy this blend with notes of cocoa, dates, and cloves—the sweet, warm flavors you need to get through the day. Whether you prefer espresso or pour-overs, Sleepyhead is a versatile blend that tastes great either way.