Roasted coffee is a variety of coffee that has been subjected to a roasting process in the presence of sugar. This roasting method gives the coffee a richer, darker flavor, but has also sparked debate about its potential negative health consequences.
What is Torrefacto Coffee?
Roasted coffee is distinguished by how its preparation process has been at the time of roasting. The roasted method consists of roasting coffee beans with sugar, generally using robusta coffee, of lower quality compared to Arabica1. During this process, the sugar caramelizes until it burns, enveloping the coffee bean and giving it a bitter and powerful flavor.
The Tradition of Torrefacto Coffee in Spain and Portugal
The tradition of roasted coffee in Spain and Portugal has its roots in the history and economic needs of both countries. In Spain, the idea of implementing this technique was exported by José Gómez Tejedor at the end of the 19th century. During the post-war period, due to the shortage and difficulty in accessing raw materials, roasted coffee became an economical option, as it allowed 20% more coffee to be obtained than with the same amount of natural bean coffee. In Portugal, roasted coffee was offered at half the price of natural coffee, making it accessible during times of economic scarcity.
The Possible Harms of Torrefacto Coffee
Several studies have suggested a possible association between the consumption of roasted coffee and an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer, due to the formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) during the roasting process5. These compounds may be carcinogenic and are present at higher levels in roasted coffee compared to other coffee varieties5. Furthermore, excess sugar in roasted coffee is not recommended for the entire population, especially diabetic people.
Conclusion
Roasted coffee is an integral part of coffee culture in Spain and Portugal, rooted in the history and economic circumstances of both countries. However, its regular consumption may be associated with health problems, which has sparked debate about its place in the modern diet. When choosing a coffee, it is important to consider not only taste and tradition, but also the impact on health and well-being.