Caffeine

Why is caffeine so important? Because of its mild stimulating properties on the body and mind. Caffeine is the stuff that perks you up when you drink a cup of coffee. The body absorbs it rapidly, usually within 30 minutes, and its effects may last for 2-5 hours.

300 mg of caffeine per day is considered moderate caffeine consumption for most people. This translates to about 5 cups of soluble coffee or 3-4 cups of brewed coffee. However, some individuals may choose to consume decaffeinated coffee, tea, or soft drinks, especially later in the day.

Caffeine was discovered by two different scientists almost at the same time. It was first isolated in coffee by a German chemist in 1820. In 1821 a French chemist, working independently, discovered the same element and gave it its name.

The effects of caffeine have been the subject of considerable discussion and research, due in no small part to the popularity of coffee, which is acknowledged as being one of the world’s favorite drinks.

Thousands of scientific studies have been published on the effects of coffee and caffeine on health, the overall conclusion of which confirms that coffee drinking in moderation (4–5 cups per day) is perfectly safe for the general population.

Caffeine has a stimulating effect on both physical and mental performance so it is ideal to take it in the morning, during the afternoon work break or in the evening for a long study night.

NESCAFÉ soluble coffee contains about 65 mg of caffeine per 175 ml (6 fl. oz.) cup. The amount of caffeine per cup of coffee depends on the amount of coffee you put in your cup and there are differences in the strength of the coffee blends in each country.

How does this amount compare to other products that contain caffeine?

Tea – Brewed (6 fl oz/175 ml): 20 - 90 mg
Tea – Instant (6 fl oz/175 ml): 24 - 31 mg
Soft Drink (8 fl oz/235 ml cola type): 30 - 71 mg
Chocolate Milk (8 fl oz/235 ml): 2 - 7 mg

Caffeine content based on information from the U.S. FDA and National Coffee Association.

See more in our Coffee and Well-being Section.