Instant Coffee: Unknown BrandOkay, let's look at this instant coffee. The image shows four variations: French Vanilla, Hazelnut, Original, and Filter Kaapi. The ingredients are listed below each flavor.
The Original and the flavored versions (French Vanilla, Hazelnut) are made with "Soluble coffee granules - 100% Arabica coffee beans." The flavored ones contain added "nature identical flavour." Nature identical flavors are synthetic flavors that chemically match a flavor found in nature. While generally considered safe by regulatory bodies, they don't offer any nutritional benefit and are a sign of processing.
The Filter Kaapi version is an "Instant Coffee - Chicory Mixture" made from a blend of 70% coffee and 30% chicory. Chicory root is known for its inulin content, a type of fiber that can act as a prebiotic and support gut health. However, inulin can also cause digestive upset in some people, especially in larger quantities. Since this is 30% chicory, it's something to be aware of if you have a sensitive stomach.
Overall, these are pretty straightforward instant coffees. The Original is the simplest. The flavored ones have added synthetic flavors, which isn't ideal but not a major health concern in small amounts. The Filter Kaapi has the added chicory, which could be a benefit for some but a potential issue for others.
For convenience, instant coffee is fine, but it lacks the nuances of brewed coffee. If you're looking for maximum control over ingredients and flavor, brewing coffee from whole beans is always the better option. If convenience is key, the Original blend here is the least proces