Coffee drinkers may be consuming more or less caffeine than they expect, with levels varying “wildly” between popular high street chains, according to a new study by consumer group Which?.
Study findings
The research analysed caffeine content in drinks sold by Caffe Nero, Costa Coffee, Greggs, Pret A Manger and Starbucks. It found a medium cappuccino from Costa contains 325 milligrams (mg) – almost three-and-a-half times as much as the same drink at Starbucks, which has 89mg.
The caffeine in Costa’s cappuccino is equivalent to around four cans of Red Bull. Greggs and Caffe Nero had the second and third-highest cappuccino levels, at 235mg and 221mg respectively.
Other drinks compared
Costa also leads for its espresso shot, containing 100mg of caffeine per serving, and its flat white, with 241mg. In contrast, Starbucks has 45mg in its espresso shot and 89mg in its flat white.
While Costa’s caffeine content for cappuccinos and single-shot espressos has not changed since Which?’s last study in 2023, Caffe Nero’s has noticeably increased, with its cappuccino now containing around double the previous level. Starbucks continues to serve the least caffeine overall, but its levels have risen in espressos, cappuccinos and filter coffees over three years.
Matcha and advice
Matcha drinks also vary significantly between chains. The study found Costa’s hot matcha latte had the highest caffeine content at 99mg, followed by Starbucks at 57mg and Pret at 28mg.
Which? said its research showed customers should “pay attention” to differences in caffeine levels, particularly those advised to restrict intake for health reasons, including pregnancy. Jessica Carson, its health and wellbeing expert, said: “For many of us, there is nothing quite like a strong cup of coffee to start the day, but Which? found even matcha enthusiasts could be consuming more caffeine than intended. Our research shows caffeine content varies wildly from chain to chain. If you drink multiple cups a day or need to cut back for health reasons, pay attention to where you shop and what you order to avoid any unwanted side-effects.”
A spokeswoman for Costa said: “At Costa Coffee, we’re committed to helping customers make informed choices. That’s why caffeine and nutritional information is available across our menu and online, so customers can choose the drinks that best-suit their individual preferences and needs. We also offer decaffeinated coffee and a range of non-caffeinated drinks. Coffee naturally contains caffeine and levels can vary depending on factors such as the blend, recipe and serving size.” Starbucks has been contacted for comment.
