Coffee beans come from the Coffea plant and are the key ingredient in one of the world’s most popular drinks: coffee. But what’s actually inside these beans?
This article will explore the nutrition facts of the coffee bean, highlighting key nutrients and things to keep in mind.
Nutritional Composition of Raw Coffee Beans
Raw coffee beans are packed with macronutrients and micronutrients.
Macronutrient Breakdown
Coffee beans contain carbohydrates, fat, and protein.
- Carbohydrates: A 50g serving of raw coffee beans contains about 31g of carbohydrates, including 3g of dietary fiber.
- Fats: That same 50g serving contains 13g of fat, which contributes to the beans’ overall calorie count.
- Protein: Coffee beans aren’t exactly a protein powerhouse, but a 50g serving does contain about 4g of protein.
Micronutrients and Minerals
Raw coffee beans are a source of calcium and iron.
- Calcium: A 50g serving of raw coffee beans contains about 80mg of calcium.
- Iron: A 50g portion provides roughly 2.7mg of iron.
Caloric Content and Serving Size
We don’t usually eat coffee beans raw, but knowing the nutrition profile is still useful. Let’s consider a 50g serving of raw coffee beans. That serving contains about 260 calories.
Keep in mind that most coffee bean products have other ingredients. Chocolate-covered coffee beans, for example, will have more calories, sugar, and fat. Be sure to check the nutrition label to see what you’re actually consuming.
Important considerations
It’s worth mentioning that some sources point to potential inaccuracies in USDA nutritional data for some coffee bean products. So, while we’ve done our best to compile the most reliable information, always check the packaging when you can.
Keep in mind, too, that processing and roasting significantly affect the nutritional content of coffee beans. Roasting, in particular, can change the chemical composition and, therefore, the nutritional profile.
The Bottom Line
Coffee beans contain carbohydrates, fats, protein, and essential minerals like calcium and iron. The amounts vary, depending on the bean and the roast.
When reading nutrition facts for coffee beans, pay attention to serving sizes. And keep in mind that the data may not be exact. Always check the product labels and be aware of possible variations.