7 Facts About Coffee You Probably Didn’t Know
- Coffee is actually a fruit: The coffee beans we brew are the seeds of the coffee cherry, a red fruit that grows on coffee trees.
- Coffee was discovered by an Ethiopian goat herder: Legend has it that a goat herder named Kaldi noticed his goats became more energetic after eating coffee berries. He tried the berries himself and found they had the same effect, leading to the discovery of coffee.
- Bees love coffee: Coffee plants rely on bees for pollination, and coffee blossoms are a favorite source of nectar for these busy insects.
- Coffee used to be consumed in religious contexts: In some cultures, coffee was considered a sacred drink and was consumed during religious ceremonies.
- Hawaii is not the only state that produces coffee: While Hawaii is the most well-known coffee-producing state, California also has a small but growing coffee industry.
- Coffee is the second most traded commodity in the world: Only oil is traded more than coffee, which is a major export for many countries, especially in Central and South America.
- Drinking coffee can improve your mood and cognitive function: Coffee contains caffeine, a stimulant that can improve alertness, memory, and mood. It can also help you focus and concentrate better.
These are just a few of the many interesting facts about coffee. So next time you enjoy a cup of this delicious beverage, take a moment to appreciate its long and fascinating history.