Buying a new coffee seems simple enough, until you have to choose between coffee beans, ground coffee, coffee capsules, coffee pods and instant coffee. Then you’ve got varieties like espresso, latte macchiato, Turkish coffee and Vietnamese coffee to add to the mix. The packaging might look appealing, but it doesn’t always tell you enough about the preparation, ingredients or compatibility with your coffee machine.
As Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I filter out the most important product information so you can compare more effectively. Pay particular attention to these common pitfalls.
Not every capsule is universal. A capsule for a Nescafé Dolce Gusto machine won’t automatically work in a Nespresso appliance. Always check the system stated. For example, the Lavazza Espresso Lungo capsules in our range are designed for Nespresso machines, while the Nescafé Hazelnut Macchiato capsules are tailored to Nescafé Dolce Gusto.
Words like “smooth”, “rich”, “intense” and “premium” mainly describe a product’s positioning. You should also look at the ingredients list and the ratio of Arabica to Robusta. A 3-in-1 coffee usually contains sugar and creamer too. According to the product information, the ingredients list for Nescafé 3-in-1 Smooth & Rich includes sugar, glucose syrup, vegetable fat, milk proteins and instant coffee.
If you want black coffee without any additions, you’re better off choosing coffee beans, ground coffee or pure instant coffee.
After opening, coffee gradually loses its aroma due to air, heat and moisture. A large pack isn’t always a good deal if you leave it open for months. Check the best-before date on the packaging and store coffee in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Don’t use any packaging that is damaged.
First, decide how you want to brew your coffee:
Arabica coffee is often associated with a milder, more aromatic flavour. Robusta coffee generally has a stronger profile and, according to general product information, usually contains more caffeine than Arabica. A blend combines the characteristics of both.
The product description is your best guide here. Nescafé Gold is described as an instant coffee made with selected Arabica beans, while Nescafé 3-in-1 uses Robusta coffee according to the listing. According to the product information, Douwe Egberts Aroma Rood Donker contains a combination of Arabica and Robusta.
Pure coffee usually consists of coffee beans or instant coffee. With latte macchiato capsules, 3-in-1 coffee and flavoured drinks, sugar, milk powder, creamer or flavourings may have been added.
According to the label, the Nescafé Hazelnut Macchiato capsules contain whole milk powder and sugar, and contain milk as an allergen. The Trung Nguyen G7 3-in-1 sachets combine coffee, creamer and sugar, and contain milk protein. Always check the actual packaging, especially if you have a food allergy or dietary requirement.
Why this fits the profile: The individual sachets are easy to portion and suitable for home, the office or on the go. You don’t need a machine.
The portion packaging prevents a large opened jar from being exposed to air and moisture for a long time.
25 sachets, pure instant coffee and, according to the product information, none of the 14 main EU allergens.
Why this fits the profile: According to the product information, this ground coffee is made from 100% Arabica and packed in a tin under a protective atmosphere.
The packaging and grind size are clearly stated, so you can check whether the coffee is suitable for espresso, moka or filter brewing.
250 grams, 100% Arabica according to the listing and suitable for multiple brewing methods.
Why this fits the profile: According to the product description, this ground Vietnamese coffee is made from Culi Robusta and is mentioned as suitable for hot and iced coffee.
The bean type and origin style are clearly described, so you don’t have to rely solely on general flavour words.
250 grams of ground coffee, Robusta beans according to the listing and suitable for Vietnamese iced coffee.
Why this fits the profile: According to the product information, this very finely ground Arabica coffee is intended for traditional Turkish coffee.
The preparation method and grind size are suited to a cezve or ibrik, rather than a standard filter machine.
250 grams, 100% Arabica according to the product information and suitable for a traditional brewing method.
We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.
Instant coffee and 3-in-1 coffee are practical choices. You only need hot water and a mug. With 3-in-1 varieties, do check the amount of sugar, creamer and the allergens listed.
That depends on the packaging and storage. Seal ground coffee, coffee beans and instant coffee tightly and store them in a dry place away from direct sunlight. The exact shelf-life information is on the packaging. A smaller pack or individual sachets can be handy if you only drink coffee occasionally.
The cost per cup depends on the price, portion size and preparation method. Don’t just compare the price of a bag or box; divide it by the number of cups or sachets. With capsules and pods, machine compatibility also plays an important role. This way, you avoid buying a pack that you can’t use.