Espresso, known for its concentrated flavor and quick caffeine kick, often sparks the question: how much caffeine does a single shot from Starbucks actually contain? While a single ounce of espresso boasts a higher caffeine concentration than regular brewed coffee, the overall caffeine intake depends on serving size and how quickly you consume it.
The USDA estimates that 8 ounces of regular brewed coffee contains between 96 and 128 mg of caffeine. However, this is just a baseline. Several factors influence the caffeine content of both espresso and coffee, including brand, bean type, roast, coffee-to-water ratio, and brewing method.
At Starbucks, a single shot of espresso, measuring 0.75 ounces, packs a punch with 75 mg of caffeine. In comparison, an 8-ounce cup of Starbucks’ Pike Place medium-roast coffee contains 155 mg.
The perception of a stronger jolt from espresso compared to regular coffee may be attributed to consumption speed. Stephen Schulman, a coffee industry veteran, suggests that the small serving size of espresso encourages faster consumption, leading to a quicker caffeine hit than slowly sipping a larger cup of coffee.
If you’re aiming to reduce your caffeine consumption, a single shot of espresso could be a good choice. Enjoy it in the traditional Italian style or savor it in an espresso-based beverage like a cappuccino or latte. These drinks dilute the espresso, allowing for a more leisurely experience.
