Reheating coffee is a common practice among busy professionals. Whether it’s because you didn’t have time to finish your morning cup before heading out the door or because you want to enjoy a hot beverage in the afternoon, reheating coffee seems like a simple solution. However, what most people don’t realize is that reheating coffee can be dangerous, and can even have adverse effects on your health.
In this article, we’ll explore the dangers of reheating coffee, what happens to coffee when it’s reheated, and what you can do to avoid these dangers.
What happens to coffee when it’s reheated?
When coffee is brewed, it contains a variety of compounds that give it its unique flavor and aroma. One of these compounds is called chlorogenic acid, which is responsible for the bitterness of coffee. When coffee is heated, the chlorogenic acid breaks down into other compounds, such as quinic acid and caffeic acid. These compounds are less bitter than chlorogenic acid and can give the coffee a sour or metallic taste.
When coffee is reheated, it goes through the same process again. The compounds that were created when the coffee was first heated break down even further, resulting in a more pronounced sour or metallic taste. Additionally, reheating coffee can cause the coffee to become more acidic, which can lead to digestive issues and other health problems.
The dangers of reheating coffee
- Increased acidity:
When coffee is reheated, it becomes more acidic. This can lead to digestive issues such as acid reflux, heartburn, and stomach ulcers. In addition, acidic coffee can also cause tooth decay and erosion, as well as damage to the esophagus.
- Formation of harmful compounds:
When coffee is reheated, it can form harmful compounds such as acrylamide. Acrylamide is a chemical that is formed when coffee beans are roasted. When coffee is reheated, the heat causes the acrylamide to break down into other compounds that can be harmful to your health. Studies have shown that acrylamide can cause cancer in laboratory animals, and may be carcinogenic to humans as well.
- Bacterial growth:
When coffee is left at room temperature for too long, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. This is especially true if the coffee contains milk or cream, which can spoil quickly if not refrigerated. When coffee is reheated, it may not get hot enough to kill off any bacteria that may have grown in the coffee, which can lead to food poisoning.
- Loss of flavor and aroma:
Finally, reheating coffee can cause it to lose its flavor and aroma. The compounds that give coffee its unique flavor and aroma break down when coffee is heated, resulting in a less pleasant tasting beverage.
What can you do to avoid the dangers of reheating coffee?
- Drink your coffee fresh:
The best way to avoid the dangers of reheating coffee is to drink your coffee fresh. Brew only the amount of coffee that you need, and drink it while it’s still hot. This will ensure that you get the full flavor and aroma of the coffee, without any of the negative side effects of reheating.
- Use a thermal carafe:
If you’re not able to drink your coffee right away, consider using a thermal carafe to keep it hot. A thermal carafe will keep your coffee hot for several hours without the need for reheating.
- Store coffee properly:
If you need to store your coffee for an extended period of time, make sure to store it properly. Coffee should be stored in an airtight container, away from light and moisture. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep your coffee fresh.
- Avoid adding milk or cream:
If you like to add milk or cream to your coffee, be sure to refrigerate the dairy products before using them. Milk and cream can spoil quickly if left at room temperature, and can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Additionally, dairy products can curdle when heated, which can change the taste and texture of your coffee.
- Use a microwave-safe container:
If you must reheat your coffee, use a microwave-safe container and cover it with a microwave safe lid or plastic wrap. This will prevent any chemicals or harmful compounds from leaching into your coffee while it’s being reheated.
- Reheat coffee properly:
When reheating coffee, it’s important to do so properly to avoid the dangers mentioned above. First, make sure to only reheat the amount of coffee that you need. This will prevent any excess coffee from being left at room temperature for too long. Next, use a low heat setting when reheating your coffee, and only heat it for a short amount of time. Avoid overheating your coffee, as this can cause it to become more acidic and form harmful compounds.
While reheating coffee may seem like a convenient solution for busy professionals, it’s important to understand the potential dangers associated with this practice. Reheating coffee can lead to increased acidity, formation of harmful compounds, bacterial growth, and loss of flavor and aroma. To avoid these dangers, it’s best to drink your coffee fresh, use a thermal carafe, store your coffee properly, avoid adding milk or cream, use a microwave-safe container, and reheat your coffee properly. By following these tips, you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee without putting your health at risk.
