Pregnancy health centre

Pregnant women coffee shop risk

1^st December 2011 - High Street coffee shops could pose a health risk to pregnant women because of wide variations in the amount of caffeine contained in the drinks they sell, scientists say.

A study of espresso coffee served in 20 coffee shops in Glasgow found that one had six times more caffeine than another.

The research, published in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s journal Food and Function, suggests that drinking a single cup of espresso could increase the risk of caffeine toxicity in women who are pregnant or taking oral contraceptives, young children and people with liver disease.

The Food Standards Agency recommends a maximum limit of 200mg of caffeine a day for pregnant women.

Sampling cafe life

Researchers from the University of Glasgow analysed single-shot espressos bought from 20 coffee shops in the west end of the city. They discovered a wide range of caffeine levels, with four samples greater than 200mg.

A branch of Starbucks served espresso coffee with the just 51mg of caffeine, but a neighbouring coffee shop, Pattiserie Francoise, served its single-shot with a whopping 322mg.

The number of coffee outlets tested is small by scientific standards, but the researchers say they have no reason to believe that the results are not applicable elsewhere in the country.

The type of coffee used and the way it is prepared could be responsible for the differences, they say. Professor Alan Crozier of the University of Glasgow’s School of Medicine, who led the research, said in a statement: "The variations in the amount of caffeine reflect differences in the batch-to-batch bean composition, roasting procedures, grinding conditions and the many variables in the coffee-making process such as water temperature and the ratio of water to coffee."

Some info with your coffee?

The researchers note that there is currently no way that customers can find out how much caffeine they will consume when they order a coffee. They point out that it is not only those ordering espressos that are affected, as many coffee shops use the espresso measure as the basis for other products such as Latte and Cappuccino drinks.

Professor Crozier says: "Although the response to caffeine varies from person to person, caffeine is generally cleared from the body in around five hours. However, it can increase to 30 hours in women taking oral contraceptives, pregnant women, the developing foetus, young children and people suffering from liver disease, which increases their susceptibility to caffeine toxicity.

"The data we have gathered suggests there is a real need for a definitive study of caffeine content and consumption of coffees, and for customers to be given the information they need to make an informed choice about their intake."