Am I being lied to about what’s in my coffee?

QUESTION:

I don’t have the money to buy gourmet coffees, so I rely in Maxwell House and Folgers for my daily brew.

But it seems to me that the quality of those coffees has being declining. Is it just me? Also, I see statements like “100% Coffee” on the cans. Is that true? Or do companies sometimes add fillers or other ingredients?

I look forward to your answer!


ANSWER:

It’s a great question, and one that many coffee drinkers share, especially when it comes to affordability versus quality. Let’s break it down.

1. Has the quality of coffee from brands like Maxwell House and Folgers declined?

You're not imagining things. Over the years, large coffee brands often adjust their blends for cost efficiency and supply changes. Maxwell House and Folgers primarily use blends of Arabica and Robusta beans, with Robusta being cheaper but harsher and more bitter.

Historically, these companies marketed a “consistent taste,” but behind the scenes, they might tweak their formulas to cut costs or respond to coffee supply fluctuations. This can lead to noticeable differences in flavor, body, and aroma—often perceived as a decline in quality.

2. What does "100% Coffee" really mean?

When a label says "100% Coffee," it legally means that there are no additives, fillers, or non-coffee ingredients in the product. So, brands like Maxwell House and Folgers aren't adding fillers such as chicory, grains, or other substances, as sometimes occurs in lower-grade or counterfeit coffee products. That said, "100% Coffee" doesn’t mean the coffee is high quality—it just means it’s pure coffee, regardless of the bean grade or blend.

3. Why does the coffee taste weaker or different?

Apart from changes in blends, other factors can influence your perception:

• Grinding & Roasting: Pre-ground coffee can lose freshness faster than whole beans. If the roast level changes even slightly, it can alter flavor.

• Aging Beans: Coffee beans lose their peak flavor over time. Big brands may use older beans compared to boutique roasters.

• Preparation: Your brewing method, water temperature, and even your coffee-to-water ratio can significantly affect flavor.

4. What can you do to improve your coffee experience without spending a fortune?

• Experiment with brewing: Use a French press, AeroPress, or pour-over method to maximize flavor extraction.

• Look for sales or deals: Smaller, higher-quality brands sometimes offer promotions that make them competitive with mass-market brands.

• Store properly: Keep your coffee in an airtight container away from light and heat to preserve its flavor.

• Try alternatives: Blends from Costco, Aldi, or Trader Joe’s can offer surprising value and quality compared to traditional grocery brands
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Final Thoughts

While Maxwell House and Folgers may not be what they once were, they still adhere to the "100% Coffee" claim. If you're noticing a drop in quality, it’s not your imagination—coffee blending practices and bean sourcing change over time.

If you want a better coffee experience without breaking the bank, experimenting with brewing methods and alternative brands might be the way to go.

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