Why do so many people like to add sugar to coffee?

Scientists say the preference for sweets is not the only reason we give a little sugar to coffee.

Many people have a habit of drinking black coffee (without sugar or milk) to enjoy the taste of this drink, though many people have a habit of giving sugar or condensed milk with sugar into their coffee cup. me So what is the reason for this phenomenon besides the interests of each person? Scientists say the preference for sweets is not the only reason we add a little sugar to coffee, in addition sugar has a very important role in reducing bitterness through chemical effects. basic.

A study published in the journal Food and Function provides new insights into how caffeine, sugar and water interact with each other at the molecular level that affect the taste of hot beverages. Accordingly, caffeine plays a role in causing bitterness , caffeine molecules tend to stick together in the water and if added a little sugar, they will stick more. Decades ago, some scientists had assumed that this phenomenon was due to enhanced intermolecular water connections around the sugar.

Picture 1 of Why do so many people like to add sugar to coffee?

However, according to the study of Dr. Seishi Shimizu, conducted at York University's Molecular Biology Laboratory, the underlying reason is the relationship between sugar and water molecules. Specifically, when we put sugar in a cup of coffee, caffeine molecules stick together to stay away from the sugar. This is why we often feel less bitter if we add sweetener to a cup of coffee. The right perception of this issue will help a lot of food experts in many respects.

In addition, Dr. Shimizu also used statistical thermodynamics to learn about molecular-level activities and interactions that occur behind daily-used foods. After giving the research results, he said: 'It is interesting that questions about food and drinks can be solved using theories, simply with a pencil and paper. ".

Coffee is a black drink containing caffeine and is widely used, made from roasted coffee beans, from coffee. Coffee was first used in the 9th century, when it was discovered from the Ethiopian highlands. Since then, it has spread to Egypt and Yemen, and to the 15th century to Armenia, Persia, Turkey and northern Africa. From the Muslim world, coffee to Italy, then the rest of Europe, Indonesia and America. Today, coffee is one of the most popular global drinks.

Picture 2 of Why do so many people like to add sugar to coffee?

The quality or class of coffee varies depending on the type of tree, each type of seed and the place of planting. Robusta coffee is underestimated compared to Arabica coffee due to its lower quality and cheaper prices. The most expensive and rarest coffee in the world is called Kopi Luwak (or "weasel coffee" ) of Indonesia and Vietnam. This is not a coffee but a way of processing coffee by using the civet's digestive tract. The price of each type of coffee of this type is about VND 20 million (1300 USD) and every year only over 200 kg is sold in the world market.

Unlike other drinks, the main function of coffee is not refreshment , although Americans still drink it as a refreshing drink. Many people drink it with the purpose of creating a sense of excitement . According to a study published in August 2005 by Scranton University chemist Joe Vinson, coffee is an important source of antioxidant for the body and role. which was previously found only in fruits and vegetables. These substances also indirectly reduce the risk of cancer in humans.

Update 18 December 2018
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