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Monday, September 4, 2023

Ready-to-Drink Coffee Beverages Decoded – from Cold Brew to Frappes

In a fast-paced world, where convenience meets caffeination, ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee has emerged as a beloved companion for coffee enthusiasts. From early mornings to afternoon slumps, RTD coffee offers a hassle-free way to enjoy your favorite brew on the go. Around 15% of consumers around the world are changing the way they drink coffee. Today, we're delving into the world of RTD coffee, deciphering the differences between cold brew coffee and iced coffee, and uncovering the unique qualities of the ever-popular frappe.

What Is RTD Coffee?

RTD coffee is the embodiment of coffee convenience. It refers to pre-packaged coffee beverages that are brewed, bottled, and ready for consumption. These beverages come in various flavors and formulations, catering to the diverse palates of coffee lovers, and they're perfect for those times when brewing equipment isn't readily available.

Why Is RTD Coffee So Popular?

The popularity of RTD coffee can be attributed to our busy lifestyles and the desire for instant gratification. Whether you're rushing to work or seeking a refreshing pick-me-up during a break, RTD coffee is there to deliver a quick caffeine fix without the wait. The convenience factor, coupled with the wide range of flavors, has made RTD coffee an indispensable part of modern coffee culture.

Differentiating Between Cold Brew Coffee and Cold Coffee

"Cold coffee" is a broader term that encompasses various cold coffee beverages, including cold brew. Cold coffee can refer to any coffee that's brewed and then chilled before being served. Cold brew, on the other hand, specifically involves the cold-water steeping process, resulting in its unique flavor and higher caffeine concentration.

The Difference Between Cold Brew Coffee and Iced Coffee

Cold brew coffee and iced coffee might seem interchangeable, but they're distinct in terms of brewing methods and flavor profiles.

Cold Brew Coffee:

Cold brew coffee is crafted by steeping coarse coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours. This method results in a smooth, low-acidity, and subtly nuanced flavor profile. Cold brew coffee tends to be stronger in caffeine content due to the prolonged steeping time.

Iced Coffee:

Iced coffee is brewed using hot water and then chilled before being poured over ice. This brewing process retains the brighter, more acidic notes of traditional hot coffee, even when served cold. Iced coffee can be customized with milk, cream, or flavorings to suit your preferences.

The Distinction Between a Frappe and Cold Brew Coffee

Frappes and cold brew coffee might appear similar, but they have distinct characteristics.

Frappe:

A frappe is a blended beverage made by mixing together ice, milk or cream, sweeteners, and instant coffee. This concoction results in a creamy, frothy, and often sweet coffee treat. Frappes can be flavored with syrups, toppings, or even a dash of cocoa, making them a versatile canvas for indulgence.

Cold Brew Coffee:

Cold brew coffee, as mentioned earlier, involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period. It's the pure essence of coffee, highlighting its natural flavors and offering a smooth and less acidic taste.

Is a Frappe the Same as Cold Coffee?

While both cold coffee and frappes are chilled coffee beverages, they are not synonymous. A frappe is a type of cold coffee – but not all cold coffees is a frappe. Frappes involve blending ice, milk, sweeteners, and instant coffee to create a frothy concoction. Cold coffee, on the other hand, can encompass a range of chilled coffee preparations, including cold brew and iced coffee, as well as frappes.

At Sucafina Instant, we're here to enhance your RTD coffee experience. As a provider of RTD coffee ingredients, we understand the intricacies of crafting the perfect on-the-go coffee indulgence. From the robustness of cold brew to the creamy allure of frappes, we offer ingredients that bring these delightful creations to life. Explore the world of RTD coffee with Sucafina Instant, where convenience and quality converge in every sip. Get in touch today to find out more!