5 Things That May Surprise You About Coffee

5 Things That May Surprise You About Coffee

Coffee is more than just a morning ritual or a quick pick-me-up—it’s a global phenomenon with a rich history and intriguing science behind it. Billions of people enjoy coffee daily, but there’s a lot more to this beloved beverage than meets the eye. From its surprising origins to its unexpected health benefits, here are five things about coffee that might surprise you.

1. Coffee Was Discovered by Goats

Legend has it that coffee was discovered by accident—by goats! According to Ethiopian folklore, a goat herder named Kaldi noticed his goats behaving strangely after eating red berries from a certain shrub. The goats became unusually energetic, jumping around and refusing to sleep.

Curious, Kaldi tried the berries himself and experienced a similar burst of energy. He shared his discovery with a local monastery, where monks began using the berries to make a drink that helped them stay awake during long hours of prayer. This marked the beginning of coffee’s journey to becoming a global staple.

While the story of Kaldi and his goats is likely apocryphal, it highlights coffee’s origins in Ethiopia, where wild coffee plants still grow today.

2. Coffee Beans Are Not Actually Beans

Despite their name, coffee beans aren’t beans at all—they’re seeds! The seeds come from the fruit of the coffee plant, called a coffee cherry. These cherries are typically red or purple when ripe and contain two seeds inside, which we call coffee beans.

The misconception likely arose because the seeds resemble legumes. Interestingly, some coffee cherries contain only one seed instead of two, producing a peaberry, which is said to have a more intense flavor.

The next time you sip your coffee, remember that you’re technically enjoying the roasted seed of a fruit, not a bean!

3. Coffee Can Improve Your Mood—Literally

Coffee is well-known for its ability to keep you awake and alert, thanks to caffeine, its primary active ingredient. But did you know that coffee can also boost your mood?

Caffeine stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This explains why a cup of coffee can make you feel happier, more energetic, and even more sociable.

Studies have also linked moderate coffee consumption to a lower risk of depression. For example, a 2013 study published in the journal Psychiatric Services found that individuals who drank four or more cups of coffee per day had a reduced risk of depression compared to those who drank less or none at all.

However, balance is key—too much caffeine can lead to anxiety or restlessness, so it’s best to enjoy your coffee in moderation.

4. Coffee Is the Second Most Traded Commodity in the World

After crude oil, coffee is the second most traded commodity globally. This highlights coffee’s economic significance and its role in international trade.

The global coffee industry is enormous, employing millions of people across its supply chain—from farmers and pickers to roasters and baristas. Some of the largest coffee-producing countries include Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, and Ethiopia.

In fact, coffee’s popularity has even influenced geopolitics and culture. For example, the Boston Tea Party in 1773 led many Americans to switch from tea to coffee as a patriotic gesture, solidifying coffee’s place as the beverage of choice in the United States.

5. Coffee Has Surprising Health Benefits

While coffee sometimes gets a bad rap for its caffeine content, research shows it can offer significant health benefits when consumed in moderation.

Here are a few surprising ways coffee can boost your health:

  • Rich in Antioxidants: Coffee is one of the largest sources of antioxidants in the modern diet, even surpassing fruits and vegetables for many people. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
  • Improves Brain Health: Studies suggest that regular coffee consumption may lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Caffeine appears to block a specific brain receptor that contributes to these conditions.
  • Boosts Metabolism: Caffeine can increase your metabolic rate and improve physical performance, making coffee a popular choice among athletes.
  • Supports Heart Health: Moderate coffee drinking has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.

That said, individual tolerance to caffeine varies, and adding excessive sugar or cream can negate some of these benefits. Stick to plain coffee or healthier alternatives to reap its full potential.


Coffee is far more than just a beverage—it’s a cultural icon, a scientific marvel, and a daily ritual that brings people together. From its surprising discovery by goats to its status as a global economic powerhouse, coffee has a fascinating story to tell.

The next time you brew your favorite cup, take a moment to appreciate the journey those little “beans” went through—from growing on a shrub to transforming into the rich, aromatic drink you love. Cheers to coffee, a beverage as complex and delightful as the people who enjoy