At MoonGoat Coffee, we believe in transparency and giving our customers as much information as possible about the coffee they enjoy. This is why we are excited to announce the addition of roasted percentage and caffeine by volume (CBV) to our coffee labels.
**Understanding the Roast Level:**
Roasting coffee is both an art and a science. Traditionally, terms like "light," "medium," and "dark" have been used to describe roast levels, but these terms can be subjective and vary between roasters. To provide a more precise and objective measure, we use a standard Omniscore color meter to calculate the roasted percentage. This scale ranges from 0%, which represents green, unroasted coffee, to 100%, which would be pure carbon.
Our darkest roast, the Franco-Italian Rwanda, sits at 77% on our roast scale, with 80% being the darkest we’ve ever roasted. For context, our Decaf and Dark Side blends max out at 70%, and our Third Wave roast, a true medium, is at 50%. Light roasts, like a Gesha, are around 25%, with most coffees typically falling between 30-40% on our scale. We reserve the 20% mark for the lightest possible roast, which would require specialized brewing techniques for proper extraction.
By providing this roasted percentage, you can better understand where your coffee sits on the spectrum and what to expect from the flavor profile. Whether you prefer a lighter roast with more acidic and fruity notes or a darker roast with deeper, more robust flavors, the roasted percentage gives you a clear and consistent guide.
**Measuring Caffeine by Volume:**
We also recognize that caffeine content is a crucial factor for many coffee drinkers. That’s why we’ve started measuring caffeine by volume using an enzyme-based test that allows us to quantify the chlorogenic acid (CGA) and caffeine content in each roast. The CGA helps us fine-tune the roasted percentage, while the caffeine analysis is reported as milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl), which we translate to milligrams per 8-ounce cup.
For example, a coffee with a roasted percentage of 49% might have a CBV of 167 mg per 8-ounce cup, as shown on our labels. This information helps you make more informed decisions about your coffee consumption, especially if you’re monitoring your caffeine intake.
**CGA, Caffeine, and Your Health:**
Chlorogenic acid (CGA) and caffeine are two key compounds in coffee that can significantly affect your health. CGA is a powerful antioxidant, and research suggests that it may help regulate blood sugar levels, improve heart health, and contribute to weight management. Interestingly, lower roast percentages generally retain higher levels of CGA because the compound breaks down as coffee is roasted longer and darker.
Caffeine, on the other hand, is an alkaloid that remains relatively stable during roasting. Unlike CGA, caffeine does not break down significantly in the roasting process, making its content more dependent on the type of coffee rather than the specific roast degree or style. Caffeine’s stimulating effects are well-known, helping to increase alertness and reduce fatigue. However, its impact can vary widely among individuals, depending on factors like genetics, tolerance, and overall health. While moderate caffeine consumption has been linked to several health benefits, including enhanced cognitive function and reduced risk of certain diseases, it’s essential to consume it in quantities that suit your body’s needs.
**Innovating for Traceability and Transparency:**
At MoonGoat Coffee, we are always looking to innovate by giving our customers traceability and transparency with the information they truly care about—how the coffee makes them feel. These new label features are part of our broader initiative to push the boundaries of science in ways that are simple and tangible for consumers.
One of our larger ongoing projects includes using AI and optical sorting technology to measure mold levels in coffee. By integrating advanced scientific methods into our process, we aim to set new standards in the industry, ensuring that every cup of MoonGoat coffee is as pure and enjoyable as possible.
**Why It Matters:**
Adding roasted percentage and caffeine by volume to our labels isn’t just about data; it’s about enhancing your coffee experience. By understanding these metrics, you can tailor your coffee choices to match your preferences more precisely. Whether you’re after a high-caffeine kick in the morning or a smooth, low-caffeine brew in the afternoon, our labels will guide you.
At MoonGoat Coffee, our mission remains clear: Making Better Coffee Easier. These new label features are just one of the many ways we’re innovating to make your coffee experience simpler, more enjoyable, and deeply connected to how you feel. As we continue to push the boundaries of science and transparency, we invite you to explore our offerings and discover how MoonGoat Coffee is leading the charge in elevating the everyday coffee ritual.