Cold-brewed Starbucks Coffee

Cold-brewed coffee is coffee made by steeping coffee grounds in cold or room-temperature water for an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours. This process extracts flavor compounds from the coffee beans differently than hot brewing, resulting in a smoother, less acidic taste. The resulting concentrate is then usually diluted with water, milk, or ice.

Manufacturers use cold-brewed coffee as a flavor ingredient in beverages, dairy products, and desserts. Its concentrated form and distinct flavor profile make it ideal for creating ready-to-drink coffee beverages, coffee-flavored ice cream, and baked goods. It provides a rich coffee taste without the bitterness sometimes associated with hot-brewed coffee.

Coffee, including cold-brewed coffee, contains caffeine, a stimulant that can affect alertness and sleep patterns. The FDA considers coffee and its components generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for consumption. International bodies like the WHO/IARC have evaluated coffee consumption and found it not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans. While moderate coffee consumption is generally associated with neutral or potentially beneficial health outcomes in peer-reviewed literature, excessive intake can lead to anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues.