The Cost of Living Crisis Hits Your Morning Cuppa
We all know the feeling – walking into a grocery store and being slapped in the face with prices that seem to be rising by the minute. And if you’re a coffee lover, you’re about to take another hit.
Coffee prices are expected to rise once again, both in store and at your local café.
Why Are Coffee Prices Soaring?
The price of Arabica beans, used by most international coffee producers, has skyrocketed by 80% this year. And if that’s not enough, the cost of Robusta beans has also hit a new high in September. The reason? Poor weather conditions in Brazil and Vietnam, two of the world’s largest coffee producers. This means the global coffee harvest will be tight, while demand remains high – a perfect storm for price hikes.
Time to Rethink Your Coffee Habits?
If you’re like many Aussies who can’t start the day without a cup of joe, this price hike might have you reconsidering your beverage choices. But fear not! We’ve got some coffee alternatives to help you tighten your coffee budget without sacrificing your caffeine fix.
Instant Coffee: The Budget-Friendly Option
Swapping out your daily café brew for a mug of instant coffee might not be the most glamorous option, but it can be kinder to your wallet. And, if you’re clever like 9honey journalist Jo Abi, you can find ways to make your coffee budget go further.
Servo Coffee: The Affordable Alternative
Another option is to opt for the more affordable coffee options available at servo chains like 7 Eleven. With servo coffees starting at just $2 a cup, it’s no wonder many Aussies are making the switch amid the cost of living pressures.
Chicory Coffee: A Sweet and Bitter Alternative
If you’re looking for a coffee-like drink that’s easier on the wallet, chicory coffee might be the answer. Made from roasted and ground chicory root, this beverage has a similar taste to coffee, although it’s a bit sweeter and less bitter. Just note that it doesn’t contain any caffeine, so you might need to find another energy-boosting option.
Matcha Tea: The Trendy Alternative
Matcha tea has been trending for a while, and for good reason. This green drink can make for a great alternative to coffee, with 40-175mg of caffeine per cup. It might be more expensive than coffee, but as prices continue to rise, it might be worth considering.
Yerba Mate and Yaupon Tea: Caffeine-Packed Alternatives
Last but not least, we have Yerba Mate and Yaupon Tea, two herbal teas that pack a caffeine punch. Yerba Mate has a more bitter flavor than other teas, while Yaupon Tea has a combination of caffeine and theobromine, which increases blood flow and may boost energy and alertness. Both are great options if you’re looking for a coffee alternative that still gives you a kick.
So, there you have it – the bitter truth about coffee prices, and some sweet alternatives to help you cope. Which one will you try first?