Determination and comparison of caffeine and other chemical constituents in <i>Coffea arabica</i> varieties grown in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed hot beverages all over the world. The coffee variety Coffea arabica accounts for 80% of the world coffee trade because of its distinct flavor and aroma. At present, coffee is considered as a functional food, primarily due to its high content of antioxidant and other beneficial biological properties. Most of the coffee varieties grown in Sri Lanka can be found at experimental fields in the Central Research Station, Department of Export Agriculture, Matale. Hybrido-de-Timor (HDT), HDT x Takari (S9) and HDT x Catura (Catimor) are considered as high yielding varieties of coffee in Sri Lanka. The objective of this study was to investigate the phytochemical analysis such as, alkaloids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, saponin and steroids, proximate composition, mineral content and antioxidant activity of coffee beans from three varieties of Coffea arabica grown in Matale plantation. Standard analytical methods were used to analyze phytochemical, nutritional composition, mineral content and total anti-oxidant activity. Findings revealed that S9 variety had the highest caffeine content, acid insoluble ash and total ash content, phosphorous, zinc and potassium content and antioxidant activity compared to other two varieties. According to the sensory evaluation, coffee brewed from S9 variety was the most preferred in terms of color, taste, aroma and overall acceptance compared to other varieties.