Coffee Myths and Facts: Level Up Your Coffee Game

March 31, 2025

If you think you know everything about coffee, it's time to think again. Whether you're a casual sipper or a hardcore caffeine enthusiast, coffee culture is overflowing with myths that just won't quit. Ready to challenge what you know about your favorite brew? Let's dive into the top 10 coffee myths and uncover the truth behind them.

Myth #1: Decaf Coffee Has No Caffeine

Decaf still contains about 2-7 mg of caffeine per cup (compared to 95-200 mg in regular coffee). Industry standards only require 97% caffeine removal, so if you're super sensitive to caffeine, even decaf might give you a slight buzz.

Myth #2: Coffee Will Stunt Your Growth

This myth came from old 1920s advertising for coffee alternatives, not science. No research has ever linked moderate coffee consumption to stunted growth. So go ahead and fuel your morning hustle without the guilt!

Myth #3: Storing Coffee in the Fridge Keeps It Fresh

Nope! The fridge exposes your beans to moisture and food odors. Keep your coffee in an airtight container at room temperature, away from light and heat to preserve those clutch flavors.

Myth #4: Coffee Will Sober You Up

Feeling more alert doesn't mean you're less drunk. Coffee doesn't lower blood alcohol levels—only time does that. Counting on coffee to sober up is a recipe for bad decisions, so plan your ride home before you start celebrating.

Myth #5: Coffee Dehydrates You

For regular coffee drinkers, that cup actually counts toward your daily hydration. Research shows we develop a tolerance to caffeine's mild diuretic effect, making coffee more hydrating than dehydrating. One less thing to worry about on your morning surf check!

Myth #6: Dark Roast Has More Caffeine

The roasting process actually burns off some caffeine, so lighter roasts typically pack more punch. If you're chasing that clean energy for your next big project, reach for a lighter roast to fuel those clutch moments.

Myth #7: Espresso Has More Caffeine Than Regular Coffee

While espresso is more concentrated (about 63mg per shot), a regular 8oz cup of drip coffee contains more caffeine overall (about 95mg). It's all about volume—so choose your morning fuel based on what your day demands.

Myth #8: You Need Boiling Water for Great Coffee

Boiling water (212°F) will scorch your grounds and bring out bitter flavors. The sweet spot is 195-205°F—just below boiling. This simple temperature hack will level up your home brewing game instantly.

Myth #9: Coffee is Highly Addictive

While caffeine can be habit-forming, it's nowhere near as addictive as alcohol or nicotine. Most people can cut back without serious withdrawal. So enjoy your daily ritual without the guilt trip!

Myth #10: Coffee Tastes Better in Expensive Equipment

While quality gear helps, brewing amazing coffee doesn't require dropping hundreds on fancy equipment. The key factors are fresh beans, proper grind size, water temperature, and brewing time. A simple pour-over setup can produce coffee that rivals what you'd get from machines costing 10x more.

Coffee Trivia Recap

Coffee was discovered in Ethiopia when a goat herder noticed his goats acting energetic after eating coffee berries
Specialty coffee beans (like ours) must score at least 80 points on a 100-point scale
The world's most expensive coffee (Kopi Luwak) passes through the digestive system of civet cats
The Boston Tea Party helped make coffee America's drink of choice
The term "cup of joe" likely comes from "jamoke," a nickname for coffee, which was shortened to "joe"

Sip Smarter with SoCalutch

If you’re ready to level up your coffee game, explore our lineup of handcrafted blends and single origins. Whether you’re pushing through a workout, hitting deadlines, or brainstorming your next big idea, SoCalutch coffee is here to fuel your passion with bold flavors and unmatched quality.

Stay fueled, stay focused, and stay clutch. Your hustle deserves nothing less.

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