Everyone loves looking for an alternative option these days, whether it is plant-based milk instead of cow’s milk for those who are dairy free, tempeh instead of meat, or a mushroom coffee instead of a macchiato.
Those hoping to cut down on their caffeine intake this year are now looking for substitutes for their favourite coffee, which they can still enjoy drinking while sitting with their friends in a cafe or grabbing when they’re on the go.
The answer to their prayers lies in hot beverages made from plant-based sources. Take mushroom coffee, for instance, which is typically produced from a mix of mushrooms, such as chaga, turkey’s tail, lion’s mane, reishi and cordyceps.
Although many might be put off by the fact it is made from mushrooms, most people confirm the hot drink has a similar taste to their normal latte. Better yet, there are also potential health benefits.
These are thought to include boosting immunity, preventing cancer, reducing the risk of heart disease, suppressing cells that cause allergic reactions, and fighting ulcers.
It also has a lower caffeine intake than coffee, which means it is ideal for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and children. You can also enjoy it at any time of the day without fretting that you’ll be up all night.
Mushroom coffee isn’t the only caffeine alternative hitting the market this year, however, as chicory drinks are becoming all the rage too.
This is a much-loved beverage in New Orleans, and is fast becoming popular across the rest of the world too.
Chicory coffee is made from the roots of the chicory plant, and is said to have an earthy and nutty flavour.
It can be drunk on its own once brewed or mixed with your favourite coffee, which many people like to do.
One of the reasons it has remained popular since it was first introduced in the 1800s is because it contains lots of nutrients. These include inulin, which supports gut health; manganese and vitamin B6 for a healthy brain; and anti-inflammatory properties.
It is also a good decaffeinated option for those who cannot, or don’t want to, drink too much caffeine.
However, Healthline reports some people suffer from side effects when consuming chicory drinks, including pain, mouth tingling, and swelling.
Figgee is also attracting interest this year, with this hot beverage simply made from roasted figs. It can be brewed in the same way as coffee, whether you prefer it deep and rich like a Turkish coffee or with boiled water, such as an americano.
The single-ingredient drink is not only caffeine-free, but it is also gluten-free and vegan. It is high in fibre, antioxidants, and alkaline, while being low in sugar, and containing zero fat. Therefore, it’s not a surprise many people are starting to talk about Figgee.
Nujo is making a name for itself too, made from six superfoods and containing no caffeine. It claims to be completely toxin-free, and full of prebiotics and probiotics, so customers are sure to feel better after drinking one of these.
It is worth cafe owners being aware of the latest trends, as they could be filling their wholesale takeaway coffee cups with Nujo, Figgee or chicory coffee before they know it.
