Coffee Calories Have Jumped Nearly 40%; Non-Dairy Creamer Leads Increase
What Happened?
A study reveals that Americans are consuming more calories from coffee, primarily due to non-dairy creamer, which has surpassed sugar as the main calorie source. Average coffee calories rose from 43 to 60 per day from 2003 to 2018.
Key points
- Average coffee consumption remained stable at about 13 ounces per day from 2003 to 2018.
- Calories from coffee increased from 43 to 60 per day, a rise of nearly 40%.
- Non-dairy creamer became the largest contributor to added calories in coffee by 2018.
- Non-dairy creamer contributed an average of 18.5 calories per day, surpassing sugar and dairy milk.
- Dairy milk was the most commonly added ingredient by weight, averaging 21.4 grams per day.
Key insights
- The rise in non-dairy creamer consumption may lead to increased health risks associated with higher saturated fat intake.
- Consumers seeking plant-based alternatives may be unaware of the calorie implications of non-dairy creamers.
- The findings could prompt further research into the health impacts of coffee additives.
Why it matters
Understanding changes in coffee consumption can help inform dietary guidelines and health recommendations.
Source
Science Daily