I make my own coffee most days and sometimes too much acid upsets my stomach. So, I’ve been trying various low acid coffees to find the best ones.
My top choice is the Stumptown Coffee because of its low acidity, great taste, and organic certification.
Stumptown Coffee:
Best Overall
- Roast: Medium
- Best for: Drip coffee, pour-over
- Flavor profile: Full body with creamy & caramel flavors
- Available In: 12 oz & 18 oz bags
- Price: $$$
- Origin: Multiple origins
- Organic: USDA Certified Organic
However, it might not be the best coffee for you. If thats the case, you’re in luck. I compiled the best 13 low acid coffees for you to choose from.
So keep ready to find your new favorite.
Top 13 Low Acid Coffees
- Stumptown Coffee – Best Overall
- San Francisco Bay Whole Bean – Runner Up
- French Press Specialty – Best For French Press
- illy Classico Espresso Ground – Best For Espresso
- Lifeboost Coffee – Best Decaf
- Death Wish Ground Coffee – Most Caffeine
- illy Coffee, Moka Ground – Best For Moka Pot
- Cafe Bustelo Cafe Espresso Molido – Best in UK
- Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee – Best For Cold Brew
- Amazon Fresh Whole Bean – Best Budget
- Cappio Liquid C`old Brew Concentrate – Best Concentrate
- Java House Cold Brew On Tap– Best Read-to-Drink
- Maxwell House Roast Instant Coffee – Best Instant Coffee
13 Best Low Acid Coffees
1. Stumptown Coffee Roasters Holler Mtn. Coffee – Best Overall
Roast | Medium |
Best for | Drip coffee, pour-over |
Flavor profile | Full body with creamy & caramel flavors |
Available In | 12 oz & 18 oz bags |
Grind size | Medium |
Price | $$$ |
Origin | Multiple origins |
Organic | USDA Certified Organic |
Pros
- USDA-Certified Organic
- Bold flavors
- Available in most supermarkets and online retailers
- Goes well with many brewing methods
Cons
- Some dislike its citrus aftertaste
Stumptown Coffee Roasters Holler Mountain Ground Coffee is my top low-acid coffee because it is USDA-certified organic, has a fantastic flavor, and is high quality.
The Stumptown coffee has a moderate strength and mild bitterness, with subtle citrusy tasting notes, which some drinkers dislike. However, I and most reviewers enjoy it.
If is low-acid because it is a medium roast and uses beans from a growing region that has a lower acid content.
For those who prefer medium roasts, the Holler Mountain ground coffee offers delightful tasting notes of caramel and hazelnut that complement well with milk or any preferred creamer.
However, for those who prefer black coffee, it also is fantastic without any additions.
This coffee is pre-ground to medium grind size, best for both standard coffee machines and pour-over systems.
Stumptown Coffee Roasters Holler Mountain ground coffee is more expensive than average medium roasts. So, if you’re on a tight budget, this coffee might not be the best choice.
However, it is USDA-Certified Organic and offers high-quality and flavorful coffee, which explains the higher price. And since its organic, this ensures it has no harmful pesticides or GMOs.
The Stumptown Coffee Roasters Holler Mountain Ground Coffee comes in two sizes, a 12 oz and an 18 oz bag.
You can buy it from many online retailers, such as Amazon, as well as your local grocery store.
If you are seeking a whole bean coffee instead, check out our runner-up, the San Francisco Bay Espresso Roast Whole Bean Coffee.
2. San Francisco Bay Espresso Roast Whole Bean Coffee – Runner Up
Roast | Espresso roast |
Flavor profile | Rich, complex, and full-bodied |
Available In | 2 lb bag |
Type | Whole bean |
Price | $$ |
Origin | Single origin, Central America |
Organic | N/A |
Pros
- Unique flavor
- Low acidity
- Wonderful roast level
Cons
- Too strong for some
The San Francisco Bay Whole Bean Coffee Espresso Roast is our runner-up because of its distinct flavor and well-balanced roast.
This coffee is a medium-dark roast with a balanced flavor with a low acid content due to its growing region in Central America. It is great for brewing in drip brewers and most other brewing methods.
However, you can use these beans for a variety of coffee drinks, including regular coffee, espressos, lattes, cappuccinos, and more.
But to keep the acid to a minimum in this one, avoid brewing methods that use a fine grind. Like espresso and pour over because these release more acidity.
The price of the San Francisco Bay espresso roast is average compared to similar whole-bean coffees, but there are more affordable options available.
One drawback is that this coffee is only available in a hefty 2-pound bag.
That said, whole beans have a long shelf life, but it is still a lot of coffee to use before it gets stale.
The espresso roast is made with 100% Arabica beans sourced from Central America. The flavor is unique and unlike any other coffee I have tried, in a good way.
Some consider this coffee too strong; however, I find that it is just right.
San Francisco Bay Coffee started producing high-quality beans in 1979 and quickly developed a strong reputation. The taste of their coffee speaks for itself.
If you would rather have a French press coffee, the French Press Specialty Coffee, Coarse Ground, Primos Coffee Co coffee is worth considering.
3. French Press Specialty Coffee, Coarse Ground, Primos Coffee Co – Best French Press
Roast | Medium roast |
Strength | 6.5/10 |
Flavor profile | Fruit and cacao |
Available In | 12 oz bag |
Type | Ground, coarse grind |
Price | $$ |
Origin | Single origin, Nicaragua |
Organic | N/A |
Pros
- Smooth, and sweet with pleasant fruit and cacao notes
- Coarse grind for French presses
- Sustainably grown by small batch roaster
Cons
- Pricier than other options
The Primos Coffee Co French Press Specialty Coffee is our top low-acid coffee for French presses. Because of its great flavor, perfect coarse grind size, and that it is produced by a sustainable, small-batch roaster.
This coffee is a medium roast, making it an ideal option for French press brewing. It offers a pleasant combination of flavors, including hints of fruit and cacao, without being too overpowering.
Its coarse grind size and bean species keeps this coffee’s acid at a minimum.
If you prefer a balanced, smooth, and sweet cup of coffee with low acid, you should enjoy this Primos Coffee Co coarse ground coffee.
As previously mentioned, the coffee from Prime Coffee Co is ground to a coarse-grind size. This ensures a consistent grind size with no grinds passing through the filter of my French press.
Other brands of pre-ground coarse-grind coffee often have smaller pieces that pass through the filter, potentially affecting the quality of your coffee.
The price of this Primos Coffee Co French press coffee is slightly higher compared to other pre-ground options for French presses.
However, it is made by a small batch roaster and grown with care, so it is worth the additional cost.
Primos Coffee Company owns a farm in Nicaragua and maintains complete control over the production process– from the coffee plant to your cup, resulting in a consistent product for you to enjoy.
It comes in a resealable 12 oz bag which optimizes its freshness.
If you need a low-acid espresso ground coffee instead, see the Illy Classico Espresso Ground Coffee up next.
4. Illy Classico Espresso Ground Coffee, Medium Roast – Best Espresso
Roast | Medium |
Flavor profile | Caramel, orange blossom and jasmine |
Available In | 8.8 ounce can |
Grind size | Fine |
Price | $$ |
Origin | Multiple Origin |
Organic | N/A |
Pros
- Balanced flavors
- Efficient packaging
Cons
- Too weak for some espresso drinkers
The Illy Classico Espresso Medium Roast ground coffee is our recommendation for low-acid espresso grounds due to its balanced flavor, natural ingredients, and overall enjoyable taste.
This coffee is 100% Arabica coffee beans Illy sources from various regions. It is a medium roast, offering a balanced flavor profile with hints of caramel and chocolate.
Illy Coffee does not use preservatives and has been honored 10 times on the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” list, ensuring that its coffee is sourced and farmed ethically.
These espresso grounds are smooth and strong, but some may find them too weak for espresso due to being a medium roast.
In addition to its chocolate and caramel tasting notes, it contains hints of orange blossom and jasmine, giving it an appealing flavor.
And while it has more acid then lighter roasts, Illy keeps the acid in this coffee to a minimum with its roasting process.
This Illy ground coffee comes in an 8.8-ounce air-sealed tin, which helps to maintain the freshness of the grounds until it is opened.
One potential drawback of the Illy Classico Espresso Ground Coffee is its tendency to go stale quickly after opening, although this is a common issue with all espresso grounds.
Illy has a strong history of producing coffee with consistent quality.
The company has been committed to sustainable coffee production for over thirty years and has been roasting beans since 1933.
If Illy’s medium roast espresso coffee doesn’t sound like you, the Lifeboost Coffee Medium Roast Decaf may be a better option.
5. Lifeboost Coffee Medium Roast Decaf – Best Decaf
Roast | Medium |
Flavor profile | Mellow, smooth, low acid |
Available In | 12 oz bag |
Best for | Drip machines, pour-over coffee |
Grind size | Medium |
Price | $$ |
Origin | Single Origin – Nicaragua |
Organic | USDA Certified Organic |
Pros
- No additives
- Grown at high altitudes (adds richness/flavor)
Cons
- Pricier than average decaf grounds
- Too bold for some
The Lifeboost Coffee decaf medium roast ground coffee offers a strong and bold flavor, making it the best low-acid decaf coffee.
These decaf grounds from Lifeboost have a noticeably lower acidity compared to other decaf brands.
This is because they are grown in a high-altitude environment, which enables them to absorb more nutrients and enhances their flavor.
These Lifeboost decaf grounds have a strong and robust flavor that goes well with different coffee drinks.
It has a smooth texture and low acidity, making it a good choice to mix with milk, creamers, and sweeteners without overpowering it.
This Lifeboost Coffee decaf ground coffee comes in a 12 oz bag that lists the roast date for freshness.
It is USDA Certified Organic (tested by NFC) and undergoes third-party testing for mycotoxins and pesticides, ensuring its purity and naturalness.
The Lifeboost decaf grounds have a strong, bold taste that most enjoy. However, some may find it too strong and opt for a milder option or a different roast.
One drawback is the higher cost compared to similar decaf grounds.
However, considering it is grown in the high-altitude mountains of Nicaragua, which leads to improved nutrient absorption, flavor, and low-acidity, the extra cost is justified.
If you’re looking for a low-acid coffee on the other end of the spectrum, the Death Wish Dark Roast Ground Coffee has the most caffeine of any coffee on this list.
6. Death Wish Dark Roast Ground Coffee – Most Caffeine
Roast | Dark |
Flavor profile | Chocolate and cherry |
Available In | 1 lb bag |
Best for | Drip coffee, pour-over |
Grind size | Medium |
Price | $$$ |
Origin | Multi-origin |
Organic | USDA Organic |
Pros
- Double the caffeine of most ground coffee
- Bold taste
- Available in 16oz ground bags and K-cups
- Exquisite Arabica and Robusta blend
Cons
- Costs more than similiar brands
The Death Wish Dark Roast ground coffee offers a strong and bold flavor, suitable for those who want the most caffeine possible while minimizing acidity.
A single 8 oz cup contains 472 mg of caffeine, which is significantly higher (at least double) than most other dark roast coffees.
Death Wish achieves its high caffeine content and low acidity through a proprietary roasting process and a unique blend of coffee beans.
The flavor of this dark roast coffee is bold and full-bodied, with a smooth taste. It is not bitter or overly acidic and has subtle hints of cherry and chocolate, making it a pleasant choice for those who prefer a stronger cup.
The grind size of this coffee is medium-coarse, which is suitable for pour-over brewing methods, drip machines, and some cold brewers methods.
This Death Wish coffee comes in a 16 oz bag which clearly indicates the roast date for freshness. Additionally, it carries certifications for being USDA organic and Fairtrade certified.
If you prefer a high caffeine content, doubling it can be beneficial. However, not everyone enjoys a large amount of caffeine in one cup.
If you are sensitive to caffeine and experience jitters, it may be better to gradually try Death Wish’s coffee grounds. Otherwise, just drink another coffee with less caffeine.
One potential drawback of the Death Wish Dark Roast is its higher price compared to similar roasts. However, most people find the added caffeine boost and delicious flavor to be worth the extra cost.
Looking for a low-acid Moka Pot coffee instead? The Moka Ground coffee from Illy up next is a great choice.
7. illy Coffee, Moka Ground – Best Moka Pot
Roast | Medium roast |
Flavor profile | Chocolate |
Available In | 8.8 oz can (1-pack, 2-pack, and 4-pack) |
Type | Ground, fine grind |
Price | $$ |
Origin | Multiple origin |
Organic | N/A |
Pros
- Pressurized can keeps it fresh
- Good tasting notes
Cons
- Costly
The Illy Coffee, Moka Ground is my low-acid recommendation for Moka Pots due to its freshness, great taste, and ideal grind size.
This illy coffee has a great balanced flavor with tasting notes of chocolate. It is smooth, has low acidity, and lacks bitterness.
Like other Illy coffees, the acid in this Moka Ground coffee is low because of its unique roasting process.
I strongly suggest all Moka Pot owners who enjoy the Illy brand and prefer milder roasts give it a try.
Additionally, it is great for preparing a variety of beverages in your Moka Pot, including both coffee and espresso-based drinks.
The price of this coffee is higher compared to similar ground coffee for Moka Pots, but it is not excessively expensive.
The Illy roast is a reliable coffee option for your daily Moka Pot brew.
It is available in single and 2-packs of 8.8 oz cans online and can also be found in grocery stores and supermarkets.
The 8.8 oz cans are pressurized to maintain the ground’s freshness until you open it, of course.
Looking for the best low-acid coffee in the UK? The Cafe Bustelo Cafe Espresso Molido is our top choice.
8. Cafe Bustelo Cafe Espresso Molido – Espresso Ground Coffee Brick – Best in UK
Roast | Espresso |
Flavor profile | Strong body, chocolate notes |
Available In | 283 g Brick |
Type | Ground, fine grind |
Price | $ |
Origin | Multi-origin |
Organic | N/A |
Pros
- Vacuumed sealed for maximum freshness
- Low acidity
Cons
- Bag can easily puncture and break vacuum seal
The Cafe Bustelo Cafe Espresso Molido grounds are the best low-acid choice for espresso lovers in the United Kingdom because it is available everywhere and tastes great.
You can find this coffee in most local grocery stores and online marketplaces such as Amazon.
This espresso roast is a blend of various coffee beans and has a bold and intense flavor that is typical for espresso. However, it is not bitter and is enjoyable in all espresso drinks.
The price of this ground espresso is slightly higher compared to other options in the UK, possibly due to it being imported from the United States. However, its exceptional taste and quality compensate for the cost.
The espresso grounds are made from coffee beans sourced from various regions worldwide, resulting in a distinctive blend with multiple tasting notes. However, Cafe Bustelo uses beans that have a low acidity.
The vacuum-sealed, 283-gram bricks ensure freshness.
However, the brick can be easily punctured, which can ruin the vacuum seal and potentially cause the grounds to become stale early.
While it is not very common, a few online customers have received damaged bricks.
The Cafe Bustelo Cafe Espresso Molido grounds are known for their low acidity and strong flavor, which makes them a popular choice among UK espresso drinkers, despite their higher-than-average price.
Looking for the best low-acid cold brew coffee instead? Check out the Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee, Strong & Smooth Blend next.
9. Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee, Strong & Smooth Blend – Best Cold Brew
Roast | Dark |
Flavor profile | Nutty, chocolate notes with low acidity |
Available In | 2 lb & 5 lb bags |
Type | Coarse |
Price | $$ |
Origin | Single Origin, Columbia |
Organic | N/A |
Pros
- Well balanced flavors
- No bitter aftertastes
Cons
- Bag is too large for some
- Too fine of a grind size for some cold brewers
The Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee, Strong & Smooth Blend ground coffee is our top low-acid cold brew choice due to its balanced and smooth taste without any bitterness.
It is a single-origin coffee using 100% Arabica beans grown in Columbia. It is a well-balanced dark roast with tasting notes of chocolate and nuts.
This Stone Street coffee used high-quality “supremo” classified Columbian beans. These beans are well known for exceptional quality, low acidity, and large size, resulting in a delicious taste.
Stone Street ground coffee is known for its ideal flavor profile for cold brew. It offers a strong yet smooth taste that is both bold and balanced, with a hint of sweetness.
It also offers flavors of nuts and chocolate that most enjoy both black or with cream or milk.
This Stone Street cold brew coffee has a coarse grind size, which has a larger surface area that is suitable for most cold brew filters and strainers.
Its larger grind size and slow brewing process attribute to its low acidity.
Yet, some reviewers noted that the grounds were too small for their French presses. That said, I made a batch of cold brew in my French press and didn’t have any grinds in my cup of coffee.
This coffee is available in two sizes, a 2-pound and 5-pound bag, and features three layers and foil lining to maintain freshness. It also includes a one-way vent valve to release gas and preserve its freshness.
One downside is that this is a lot of coffee to consume. It may go stale before you can use it all.
Stone Street is a small business in Brooklyn, NYC, that specializes in small-batch roasting.
As a small roaster, they have enhanced quality control and oversight. Additionally, there is the added benefit of supporting small businesses when making a purchase.
If the Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee, Strong & Smooth Blend doesn’t sound like your jam, perhaps the Amazon Fresh Colombia Whole Bean Coffee will.
10. Amazon Fresh Colombia Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast – Best Budget
Roast | Medium |
Best for | Drip machines, pour over, French press, cold brew |
Flavor profile | Cocoa and brown sugar |
Available In | 32 oz bag |
Type | Whole Bean |
Price | $ |
Origin | Single Origin, Colombia |
Organic | N/A |
Pros
- High-quality coffee beans
- Subtle citrus aromas
- Great cocoa and brown sugar tasting notes
Cons
- 32 oz is too much for some
- Inconsistent roast levels between bags
The Amazon Fresh Colombia Whole Bean Coffee is our budget low-acid coffee recommendation due to its ample quantity and good quality beans at a reasonable price.
The whole beans are medium-roasted to achieve a balanced acidity. It has unique tasting notes of citrus, cocoa, and brown sugar, which is well-balanced and smooth, without any bitterness.
Amazon Fresh coffee is made from 100% high-quality Arabica beans that it imports from Colombia and roasts in the US, ensuring a consistent flavor and texture.
These Amazon Fresh whole beans are best for people seeking a balanced and fresh cup of coffee with a full body.
However, it is whole bean coffee. So you will have to grind it to your preferred size. For instance, if you’re making a cold brew or using a French press, grind it to a coarse size. Or, for espresso, grind it to a fine size.
Grinding the beans yourself requires more time and cleaning compared to using pre-ground coffee, but it results in a fresher and better-tasting brew.
Additionally, it brings the pleasant aroma of freshly ground coffee to your home.
A potential disadvantage is that this coffee is only available in a large 32 oz bag, which may be too much for individuals or families who don’t drink tons of coffee.
Furthermore, some reviewers saw variations in roast levels between two bags.
However, this seems to be a rare occurrence as I haven’t personally encountered it. Additionally, based on the numerous positive reviews, it appears that most customers haven’t either.
Perhaps you’d prefer the convenience of coffee concentrate instead? In that case, you should try the Cappio Medium Roast Liquid Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate.
11. Cappio Medium Roast Liquid Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate – Best Concentrate
Roast | Medium |
Best for | Coffee concentrate |
Flavor profile | Smooth and rich |
Available In | 16 oz bottle |
Type | Coffee concentrate |
Price | $ |
Origin | Multiple origin |
Organic | N/A |
Pros
- Makes cold brew coffee in less than a minute
- Great tasting notes
Cons
- Goes stale quickly
- Taste “off” to some
The Cappio medium roast Liquid Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate is our recommended low-acid coffee concentrate due to its affordability, great flavor, and convenience.
As its name suggests, it is a coffee concentrate. Essentially, it is a concentrated coffee flavor that you can mix with hot or cold water to make a cup of coffee in less than a minute.
It has lower acidity because of its brewing process.
One great feature of this Cappio medium roast is its convenience, you can make both delicious cold brews and hot coffee quickly.
To prepare a cup of coffee, simply combine one part of this coffee concentrate with two parts of hot or cold water, mix, and it’s ready to drink.
Another common use of this concentrate is as an ingredient in desserts such as ice cream and baked goods.
If you are a fan of cold brew but lack the time for preparation and clean-up, this concentrate is definitely worth a try.
However, some individuals may perceive it as artificial, meaning it tastes “off” compared to real coffee. Although I personally disagree, this is worth mentioning.
One potential drawback is that the concentrate has a limited shelf life of 30 days after opening.
Sure, that seems like a sufficient amount of time. But if you’re like me, you might forget about it in the back of your fridge.
Looking for a ready-to-drink, bottled cold brew instead? The Java House Cold Brew Coffee On Tap is our top choice.
12. Java House Cold Brew Coffee On Tap- Best Ready-to-Drink
Roast | Medium |
Best for | Cold brew (ready-to-drink) |
Flavor profile | Chocolate and caramel |
Available In | 128 oz box |
Type | Ready-to-drink cold brew |
Price | $ |
Origin | Multiple origin |
Organic | N/A |
Pros
- Zero prep time
- Low acidity
- No preservatives and no sweeteners
Cons
- 128 oz can be overwhelming
The Java House Cold Brew Coffee On Tap is the best low-acid, ready-to-drink coffee due to its cost-effectiveness, great flavor, and convenient packaging.
It is packaged in a large, 128 oz box with a built-in spout for easy pouring. Just store it in your refrigerator and enjoy at your convenience.
This ready-to-drink coffee is best for people with busy lifestyles who have limited time for the prep and cleaning work of brewing their own coffee.
However, it is not the most economical choice for coffee. That said, it is relatively more affordable compared to other ready-to-drink coffees.
The Java House Cold Brew Coffee On Tap has a balanced flavor profile of caramel and chocolate and tastes great with and without cream and sugar.
The ready-to-drink coffee has low acidity because it is a cold brew and a medium roast.
If you want a quick, hot coffee instead, the Maxwell House The Original Roast Instant Coffee is what we recommend.
13. Maxwell House The Original Roast Instant Coffee – Best Instant Coffee
Roast | Medium |
Best for | Instant coffee |
Flavor profile | Intense and smooth |
Available In | 8 oz jar |
Type | Instant coffee |
Price | $ |
Origin | Multiple origin |
Organic | N/A |
Pros
- No prep or cleaning time
- Low acidity
- Affordable
- Available everywhere coffee is sold
Cons
- Lacks in taste
The Maxwell House The Original Roast Instant Coffee is the best low-acid instant coffee due to its convenience, low price, and nearly the same taste as Maxwell House’s coffee grounds.
However, when you drink it, you can still easily tell it is instant coffee. Nevertheless, it is considered one of the higher-quality options among instant coffees.
For those who are unfamiliar with instant coffee, the process is simple. Measure 1 tablespoon of instant coffee into 6 ounces of hot or cold water; stir until it dissolves, and enjoy. No brewing or clean up required.
The Maxwell House instant coffee offers a balanced and timeless flavor profile that is neither too mild nor too strong.
Since it is a medium roast and manufactured into instant coffee, it has a lower acidity than most pre-ground coffees.
This instant coffee is available everywhere that sells coffee and comes in both 8 oz and 12 oz jars at an affordable price.
Maxwell House imports 100% Arabica beans it sources from several Coffee Belt regions to make this instant coffee.
The only disadvantage of this instant coffee is that it lacks the flavor of drip coffee. However, this is a common trait among all instant coffees.
However, for many coffee drinkers, its convenience outweighs this drawback.
Low Acid Coffee Buying Guide
Here are the most critical factors to consider before purchasing a low-acid coffee. For more details, read our complete coffee-buying guide.
What to Consider | Why it’s Important |
Acidity | Low acid content is easier on the stomach and has a neutral pH. |
Roast | Lighter roasts are generally less acidic than darker roasts |
Coffee Type | Your main options are whole-bean, ground instant, ready-to-drink, and coffee concentrate. |
Grind Size | The grind size required can vary depending on the brewing method used, such as French press, cold brew, drip, pour-over, espresso, Moka pot, etc. |
The right type for your beverage | Several factors such as the type of coffee bean, caffeine content, and growing region influence your cup of joe. |
Certifications | Certifications such as USDA Organic and Fairtrade are crucial to some. |
Price/Budget | Low-acid coffee is available in various price ranges. |
Single vs. multi-origin | Single-origin coffee beans typically have a more consistent flavor compared to multi-origin beans. |
Packaging/roast date | A recent date means the coffee is fresher. |
Acidity
Low acid coffee is a type of coffee that has been specially processed or brewed to have a lower acidity level compared to regular coffee. The pH level determines the acidity level in coffee, with a lower pH indicating higher acidity.
There are several benefits to consuming low-acid coffee, including
- Reduced Digestive Issues: High acidity in regular coffee can cause digestive discomfort for some individuals, such as acid reflux, heartburn, or stomach irritation. Low acid coffee can be a better option for those with sensitive stomachs or gastrointestinal issues, as it is less likely to trigger these symptoms.
- Better for Your Teeth: Acidic beverages like regular coffee can contribute to tooth enamel erosion and dental sensitivity. Low acid coffee reduces the risk of dental problems, making it a more tooth-friendly option.
- Reduced Risk of Acid-related Health Issues: Excessive consumption of highly acidic foods and beverages has been linked to certain health issues, such as acidosis or chronic acid reflux. By opting for low-acid coffee, individuals can minimize their intake of acidic substances and potentially reduce the risk of developing these conditions. [1]
- Better Flavor Profile: Some coffee enthusiasts prefer low-acid coffee for its milder and less bitter taste. The reduced acidity allows for a smoother and more balanced flavor, making it an enjoyable choice for those who find regular coffee too strong or harsh.
- Increased Tolerance for Coffee: Individuals who experience discomfort or negative side effects from regular coffee may find that they can tolerate low-acid coffee better. This allows them to continue enjoying the taste and benefits of coffee without the negative consequences.
It is important to note that low-acid coffee may not be suitable for everyone. Some coffee connoisseurs argue that reducing acidity can also diminish certain desirable flavor characteristics of coffee.
Additionally, the specific processing or brewing methods used to create low-acid coffee can vary, so it’s essential to choose a reputable brand that meets your preferences and needs.
Roast
The roast level of low-acid coffee ranges from blonde, light, medium, and dark. Generally, the lighter the roast, the less acid it has.
Blonde and light roasts have the least amount of acid.
Medium roasts have a moderate amount of acid and dark and espresso roasts have the boldest and strongest flavors but tend to be the most acidic.
That said, the acid level of the coffee depends on the specific coffee too. For example, you can find a dark roast with less acid than a light roast.
Here is the brewing method I recommend for each roast level.
Roast | Flavor | Best for |
Light roast | Mild to medium | Coffee drinks |
Medium roast | Medium | Coffee drinks, cold brew |
Dark roast | Strong | Coffee and espresso drinks |
Espresso roast | Very strong | Espresso drinks |
Coffee Type
When choosing a low-acid coffee, you should first consider whole beans and ground coffee. You can easily find low-acid options of both types.
In general, there is no difference in acidity levels of ground and whole bean coffee.
Whole beans have a longer shelf life after opening, typically lasting up to four weeks. Grinding the beans oneself also leads to fresher coffee and adds nice coffee smells to your home.
On the other hand, pre-ground coffee offers convenience as you can use it immediately in coffee brewers.
Using pre-ground coffee requires less cleaning but has a shorter shelf life compared to grinding whole beans yourself.
Instant coffee is a convenient option as it only requires adding it to hot or cold water, stirring, and drinking. However, you might find its taste and quality lacking. It usually has less acid because of how its manufactured.
Coffee concentrate can also be a practical and convenient option. Simply mix a small amount with hot or cold water. Since this is a concentrated cold brew, it has a lower acidity level.
Ready-to-drink coffee also referred to as bottled coffee, is usually the priciest option but eliminates all preparation time. As stated above, cold brew has a lower-acidity because it uses a coarse grind in the brewing process.
Coffee Type | Benefit | Drawback |
Whole beans | Best tasting coffee | More prep and cleaning time |
Grounds | Less cleanup, cheaper | Goes stale faster |
Instant | Fast prep time, affordable | Lacks in taste and flavor |
Concentrate | Easy preparation | Shorter shelf life, expensive |
Ready-to-drink | Zero prep time | Expensive |
Grind Size
The grind size of low acid coffee impacts the brewing process. It determines how thoroughly the coffee grounds and hot water mix, which in turn affects the speed and effectiveness of the brewing.
The grind size also impacts your coffee’s flavor, strength, and acidity.
Smaller grind sizes make a stronger cup and adds more acid to your cup of coffee than coarse grind sizes.
Various brewing techniques require specific grind sizes. For instance, French presses require coarse grinds, drip brewers require medium grinds, and espresso machines and Moka pots require fine grinds.
But if you want the least amount of acid possible, opt for using brewing methods that use a coarse grind size, i.e., French presses and cold brewing.
You can read more about this in our coffee grind size guide but here is the grind size I recommend for each brewing method.
Grind Size | Best for |
Fine | Espresso machines and Moka Pots |
Medium | Drip machines, cold brew, and pour over |
Medium-coarse | Drip machines, pour over, cold brew, and French press |
Coarse | French press and cold brew |
Certifications
When choosing a low-acid coffee, you need to consider USDA Organic and Fair Trade certifications.
USDA-certified organic coffee has no artificial preservatives, flavors, colorings, or other additives.
Fairtrade indicates that the coffee was produced and sourced sustainably, ensuring fair compensation, assistance, and supervision for the farmers and communities involved.
A Rainforest Alliance certification guarantees that the growing regions have not caused any damage in the surrounding rainforests.
When choosing low-acid coffee, I suggest getting a coffee that holds these certifications to ensure a natural and ethical product.
Use the table below to review these certifications, and go to our coffee certifications guide to learn more about this.
Certifications | What it means |
USDA Organic | Cruelty and chemical free and transported safely. |
Fairtrade | Protects the farmers who grew the coffee beans. |
4C Certification | Protects the farmers who grew the coffee beans. |
Rainforest Alliance Certification | Ensures no deforestation. |
Smithsonian Bird Friendly | Looks after the birds living in the coffee farms. |
Price/Budget
As you shop for low-acid coffee, you should consider the price and quality.
In general, low-acid coffee costs more than regular coffee.
Lower-quality coffee is usually sold at lower prices, while higher-quality coffee is typically sold at higher prices. Occasionally, there are opportunities to find good deals.
A 12 oz bag of low-acid whole-bean coffee usually costs between $8 and $25, depending on factors such as quality and brand.
Type | Cost range per 6-oz cup of coffee (budget to high-quality) |
Instant coffee | $0.13 to $0.25 |
Ready-to-drink coffee | $2 to $5 (per bottle) |
Pre-ground coffee | $0.16 to $0.32 |
Single-origin whole-bean coffee | $0.32 to $0.54 |
Multi-origin whole-bean coffee | $0.22 to $0.41 |
Specialty pour over coffee | $0.29 to $0.51 |
Single-origin Vs. Multi-origin
You should also consider the origin of low-acid coffee before you buy one.
Single-origin coffees contain beans from just one specific country, region, or farm. They are known for their consistent flavors and distinct tasting notes their growing regions impart on the beans.
Single-origin coffees are generally more expensive than blends from multiple regions but can occasionally be less expensive.
On the other hand, multi-origin coffees use beans sourced from various locations, often including two or more countries or regions and occasionally incorporating two or more species of beans.
As such, you can have a greater variety of flavors with multi-origin blends.
However, multi-origin blends can sometimes have inconsistent flavors and unappealing tastes, which typically makes them a more affordable choice.
Yet, neither single nor multiple-origin medium roast coffee is superior. It varies based on personal taste and the characteristics of the individual coffee.
While it is easier to make a single origin coffee with a lower acidity level, they don’t also have a lower acid content than blended coffees. It really depends on the brand.
Single Origin Coffee Benefits
Here are the advantages of single-origin coffees.
- Consistent flavor profiles and texture
- Robust tasting notes
- More strength and boldness
Multi-origin Coffee Benefits
Here are the advantages of using multi-origin/blended coffees.
- Typically cheaper
- Different combinations can make unique flavors
- Blended tasting notes
To learn more, see our complete guide on single-origins and coffee blends.
Packaging Date/Roast Date
When selecting a low-acid coffee, it is important to take into account the packaging and/or roasting date.
If the coffee is stale, it will have more acid and taste bitter.
Certain coffee brands provide a packaging date or roast date on their packaging. Usually, the packaging date corresponds to the roast date or is within one day of it.
For the best taste, quality, and least acidity, choose a coffee that has been freshly roasted.
That said, it can be challenging to confirm the packaging or roast date when making an online purchase.
Still, you can just ask the seller for a fresh batch instead of an old one.
Best Brands
As you look for low-acid coffee, you need to look at these top brands– Stumptown, San Francisco Bay, Primos, illy, Death Wish, Lifeboost, and Maxwell House.
All of these brands offer low-acid coffee varieties, including whole-bean, pre-ground, instant, and ready-to-drink varieties. You can likely find several that fit your personal taste.
Furthermore, these brands are available in various retail locations, including supermarkets, grocery stores, and online marketplaces like Amazon.
Our Verdict
Here are the best 3 low-acid coffees. They each have excellent tasting notes, high quality, and low acidity.
- The #1 choice is the Stumptown Coffee Roasters Holler Mtn. Coffee because of its great tasting notes, versatility, and organic certifications.
- Our second choice, the San Francisco Bay Whole Bean Coffee, has unique flavors, a perfect roast level, and you can grind it yourself to fit any brewing method.
- The French Press Specialty Coffee, Coarse Ground, Primos Coffee Co is the best choice for low acid coffee you can make in your French press.
Stumptown Holler Mtn. Coffee: Best Overall
- Roast: Medium
- Best for: Drip coffee, pour-over
- Flavor profile: Full body with creamy & caramel flavors
- Available In: 12 oz & 18 oz bags
- Price: $$$
- Origin: Multiple origins
- Organic: USDA Certified Organic