How much caffeine is in a coffee pod or espresso?

"How much caffeine is in my coffee?" is one of the most-asked coffee questions — and the answer surprises people. Here's a clear guide.

Rough caffeine levels

• Single espresso / espresso pod: roughly 60–80mg.
• Lungo or larger pod: often a little more, as more water passes through — very roughly 70–110mg.
• Mug of instant: around 60–90mg.
• Decaf pod: just a few mg — around 97% of the caffeine removed.

These are approximate; the real figure depends on the factors below.

What changes the amount

Bean type matters most: Robusta has roughly double the caffeine of Arabica, so espresso blends with Robusta pack more of a kick (see Arabica vs Robusta). Cup size matters too — a bigger drink usually means more caffeine. Interestingly, roast level barely changes it, and darker "intense" pods aren't automatically higher in caffeine — intensity is about flavour, not caffeine.

Watching your intake?

Most health guidance suggests up to around 400mg of caffeine a day is fine for most adults — very roughly four to five espressos — but everyone's tolerance differs, so listen to your body. For an evening cup, a decaf pod gives you the ritual and flavour without the caffeine.

Want to mix regular and decaf in one box? Build a box and save up to 30% with free UK delivery.