Caffeine in Costa cappuccino 3 times that of Starbucks

A recent study has revealed that coffee drinkers may be unknowingly ingesting vastly different amounts of caffeine from popular chains, with Costa Coffee's cappuccino standing out as particularly high. According to the research by UK consumer champion Which?, a medium cappuccino from Costa contains 325 milligrams of caffeine, nearly three-and-a-half times the 89 milligrams found in a similar drink at Starbucks.

The caffeine content in a Costa cappuccino is equivalent to around four cans of Red Bull, highlighting the significant difference between the two chains. Costa Coffee also leads in other drinks, with its espresso shot containing 100 milligrams of caffeine and its flat white having 241 milligrams. In contrast, Starbucks' espresso shot has 45 milligrams and its flat white 89 milligrams.

Notably, Costa's caffeine levels have remained unchanged since the last study in 2023, while Caffe Nero's has significantly increased, with its cappuccino now containing roughly double the caffeine compared to before. Despite serving the least caffeine overall, Starbucks' caffeine levels have also risen in its espressos, cappuccinos, and filter coffees over the past three years.

The study also examined matcha drinks, finding that Costa's hot matcha latte contained the highest caffeine content at 99 milligrams, followed by Starbucks at 57 milligrams and Pret at 28 milligrams. The research underscores the importance of being aware of caffeine levels across different coffee chains, especially for those advised to limit their intake due to health reasons, including pregnancy.

Which? health and wellbeing expert, Jessica Carson, emphasized that while coffee can be a great way to start the day, customers should pay attention to where they shop and what they order to avoid unwanted side-effects. Costa Coffee responded by stating that they are committed to helping customers make informed choices, offering caffeine and nutritional information across their menu and online.

They also provide decaffeinated coffee and a range of non-caffeinated drinks, noting that caffeine levels in coffee can vary based on factors such as blend, recipe, and serving size.