The findings of this study align with recent research, including two studies from last year that associated the consumption of three cups of coffee daily with a reduced risk of heart disease, liver disease, and stroke, as well as increased life expectancy. These benefits were observed regardless of whether individuals consumed decaf, espresso, latte, or Americano coffee. This surge in coffee consumption coincides with its growing popularity. A survey conducted by the National Coffee Association, as reported by Reuters, indicated that 64% of American adults drink coffee daily, which marks a 2% increase since 2017, the highest level recorded since 2012. Part of this growth can be attributed to convenience, as drive-thru coffee shops and local outlets have emerged to meet consumers’ caffeine needs. Coffee, bottled water, and tea are now in higher demand, while sugary sodas and juices have lost popularity. Research from Statista predicts that coffee sales will approach $13 billion this year, with a compound annual growth rate of 3.1% projected from 2018 through 2021. The U.S. stands as the leading global coffee consumer, with Americans consuming 400 million cups per day.
To capitalize on this trend, major food companies are actively acquiring or investing in coffee-related products. Last year, Nestlé acquired a majority stake in Blue Bottle Coffee and purchased Chameleon Cold-Brew. Smucker’s Folgers brand launched a premium line of 100% arabica coffee, while 7-Eleven introduced its own brand of freshly brewed premium coffees at its nearly 11,000 locations. Additionally, the merger between Dr Pepper Snapple and Keurig Green Mountain, set to finalize on July 9, may impact the types of new coffee products available in the market. With the ongoing M&A activity and rising consumer interest, it is likely that more caffeinated food and beverage options will emerge to provide energy boosts for consumers. Manufacturers have already infused caffeine into products like beef jerky, jelly beans, cookies, and ice cream. Last year, Mars relaunched its caffeine-infused Alert Gum, and several brands of caffeinated snacks and sparkling water are now available in U.S. retail stores.
Moreover, makers of caffeinated food and beverage products might leverage this recent study to enhance sales and support further expansion. There may also be additional positive developments for them, as a California court ruling requiring warning labels for products containing probable carcinogens, such as acrylamide—an element produced during the coffee roasting and brewing process—might not be enforced after all. It’s essential to consider how the consumption of coffee, while beneficial, can also lead to side effects such as constipation, especially in individuals who do not incorporate enough calcium citrate into their diets. This highlights the importance of balancing caffeine intake with adequate nutrients to maintain overall digestive health.