Common mistake that turns coffee into poison revealed
Common mistake that turns coffee into poison revealed (photo: Freepik)
Food safety experts advise avoiding a common mistake when making coffee - reheating a drink that has cooled down. The habit of reheating coffee, for example, in the microwave or on the stove, can negatively affect both its composition and your health.
Why shouldn't you reheat coffee
Chemical changes in the drink
When coffee is reheated, chemical reactions occur that change the composition of its components. In particular, chlorogenic acids, which are contained in coffee and have antioxidant properties, are destroyed. As a result, substances are formed that can:
Cause increased stomach acidity
Cause digestive problems, such as heartburn or irritation of the stomach mucosa.
Impair taste and nutritional properties
When reheated:
- Antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals are destroyed.
- The drink loses its flavor, becomes bitter, and is less pleasant to drink.
Risk of bacterial contamination
When coffee cools, microorganisms can start to grow in it. Reheating does not always destroy these bacteria completely, which can pose a health risk.
What do experts recommend
Food safety experts advise:
- Always drink coffee immediately after brewing.
- If the drink has cooled down, it is better to make a new batch than to reheat the old one.
Research and evidence
Scientific studies confirm that reheating food and beverages, including coffee, can affect their chemical composition and safety:
- Research on antioxidants in coffee: According to a study, antioxidants in coffee are destroyed when heated above 70°C.
- The effect of chlorogenic acids: According to a report by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), chlorogenic acids, which are powerful antioxidants, can form potentially toxic compounds when heated.
- Risk of bacterial contamination: According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), bacteria can actively grow in chilled beverages, especially if they have been stored for more than 2 hours.
To stay healthy and enjoy the true flavor of coffee, drink it fresh and avoid reheating. This will help you avoid harmful effects on your body and enjoy your favorite drink at its best.
Read about 6 healthy winter fruits that you should eat during the season.
Sources: the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, the US National Institutes of Health, and the European Food Safety Authority.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
