What Is Green Coffee and Why Is It Trending?

You’ve probably heard of green tea, but have you heard of green coffee?

This unique and increasingly popular drink has been making waves in the health and wellness community, especially among people looking for natural energy boosts and weight management solutions. But what exactly is green coffee, and why is it becoming so trendy?

In this article, we’ll break down what green coffee is, how it’s made, what science says about its benefits, and why it might be worth a spot in your cup—especially if you’re looking to shake up your usual coffee routine.

What Exactly Is Green Coffee?

Green coffee refers to unroasted coffee beans. These are the raw seeds of the coffee cherry, and before roasting, they appear greenish in color—hence the name.

When coffee beans are roasted, they undergo significant chemical changes: flavors deepen, aromas intensify, and caffeine becomes more prominent. However, in their raw form, green coffee beans retain certain natural compounds that are often reduced or lost during roasting.

One of the most talked-about compounds in green coffee is chlorogenic acid, which is believed to be responsible for many of its potential health benefits.

How Is Green Coffee Made?

To make green coffee, manufacturers typically take the following steps:

1. Harvest the beans from ripe coffee cherries.
2. Dry and process the beans, just as you would with traditional coffee.
3. Skip the roasting step—this is key.
4. Grind and brew using methods suited for unroasted beans, such as boiling or steeping.

You can find green coffee in several forms:

• Whole green beans (for home brewing)
• Ground powder
• Capsules or tablets (for supplementation)
• Bottled drinks or concentrates

The flavor is notably different from regular coffee—much milder, slightly grassy, and more herbal, often compared to green tea.

Why Is Green Coffee Trending?

There are several reasons for the surge in interest in green coffee:

1. Health and Wellness Appeal

Green coffee is often marketed as a natural supplement. It has caught the attention of health-conscious consumers due to claims that it may:

• Help with weight loss
• Regulate blood sugar
• Improve energy levels without the jittery side effects

2. Weight Loss Claims

Green coffee extract became widely known after being featured on health shows and online platforms, often promoted as a “fat burner.” Some small-scale studies suggested that chlorogenic acid could reduce fat absorption and boost metabolism, leading to modest weight loss when combined with diet and exercise.

However, it’s worth noting that larger, long-term studies are still needed, and many health professionals remain cautious about overhyping these effects.

3. Alternative to Traditional Coffee

For people who love coffee but are sensitive to high levels of caffeine or acidity, green coffee offers an alternative with less stimulation and a different nutritional profile.

4. Natural, Plant-Based Living

The popularity of plant-based, unprocessed products has driven interest in “closer-to-nature” options. Since green coffee is minimally processed compared to roasted coffee, it fits into that narrative.

5. Beauty and Skincare Buzz

Chlorogenic acids and antioxidants in green coffee have also gained attention in the beauty industry. Green coffee extract is now a common ingredient in creams and supplements aimed at improving skin elasticity and fighting aging.

Does Green Coffee Have Caffeine?

Yes—but less than roasted coffee.

The exact amount depends on how it’s prepared, but generally:

• Green coffee extract (in capsules) contains about 20–50 mg per serving.
• Green coffee brew (from whole beans) can contain around 30–70 mg per cup.
• Compare that with a traditional cup of black coffee, which usually contains 80–120 mg of caffeine.

This makes green coffee a gentler choice for people who want some stimulation but want to avoid the caffeine crash or sleep issues.

Are There Any Downsides?

Like any trending product, green coffee isn’t without its cautions. Here are a few considerations:

• Limited long-term research: While early studies show promise, most are small and not conclusive.
• Potential digestive issues: Some people report mild stomach upset when drinking green coffee or taking the extract.
• Interactions with medications: Green coffee extract may affect blood pressure and interact with medications—so always consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure.

Also, be wary of over-the-top marketing that promises miraculous weight loss. No single food or drink can replace healthy habits.

How to Brew Green Coffee at Home

Want to try it for yourself? Here’s a simple home method using whole green beans:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of water
• 1–2 tablespoons of green coffee beans

Instructions:

1. Rinse the beans and soak them overnight.
2. In the morning, boil the beans (with the water) for 10–15 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture into a mug.
4. Add lemon, honey, or cinnamon for flavor if desired.

Alternatively, you can buy green coffee powder and prepare it like instant tea—just stir into hot water and enjoy.

Is Green Coffee Right for You?

It depends on your preferences and goals. Green coffee may be worth exploring if:

• You’re looking for a lower-caffeine alternative.
• You’re curious about new wellness trends.
• You want a drink that’s mild and herbal-tasting.
• You’re interested in natural ways to support weight management (alongside healthy habits).

That said, green coffee isn’t a miracle fix—and traditional roasted coffee still holds the crown for flavor, variety, and cultural richness.

Final Sip: A Trend Worth Tasting?

Green coffee may not replace your morning espresso, but it’s a fascinating addition to the world of coffee and wellness. With its unique flavor, lower caffeine, and antioxidant profile, it offers something new for curious drinkers.

Whether you’re sipping it for the health benefits, the novelty, or just to try something new, green coffee is definitely more than just a passing fad—it’s a window into coffee’s raw, untapped potential.