Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew coffee is coffee made by steeping coffee grounds in cold or room-temperature water for an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours. This slow, low-temperature extraction process results in a coffee concentrate that is less acidic and smoother than coffee brewed with hot water. It is usually diluted with water, milk, or ice before serving.

Manufacturers use cold brew coffee concentrate as a base for ready-to-drink beverages, providing a rich coffee flavor and aroma. It is commonly found in coffee drinks, dairy-based beverages, and even some desserts and baked goods where a coffee flavor is desired.

Cold brew coffee is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. It contains caffeine, which can have stimulant effects and may cause anxiety or sleep disturbances in sensitive individuals or at high doses. JECFA has evaluated coffee and caffeine, and EFSA has also assessed caffeine. The primary health considerations are related to caffeine content and potential effects on sleep and anxiety.