Bean Shortage Drives Up Cost of Even the Cheapest Cup of Coffee
- Cheaper robusta in high demand amid cost-of-living crisis
- Variety is used in instant coffee, espressos and ground blends
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The global cost-of-living crunch has pushed coffee drinkers to get their fix from cheaper brews. But a shortage of robusta beans is making it increasingly difficult to find a budget-friendly cup.
While many coffee lovers prefer the high-quality arabica beans sold in cafes, robusta is normally less expensive because the tree is hardier and requires less care, making it easier to produce in large quantities. The variety is often used in instant coffee, espressos and ground blends sold at supermarkets, which have experienced a comeback as cash-strapped consumers seek alternatives.