No, coffee is generally not considered high in cadmium. The levels found in natural coffee are quite low.
Studies show that dry coffee typically contains a very small amount of cadmium. On average, 1 gram of dry coffee contains approximately 0.004 micrograms (μg) of cadmium. When coffee is brewed, a significant portion of this metal transfers into the drink; about 95.5% of the cadmium present in the dry coffee passes into the infusion.
Cadmium Levels in Coffee
To put this into perspective, a standard serving of coffee, which might use around 7-10 grams of dry coffee, would contribute a negligible amount of cadmium to one's daily intake.
| Component | Average Cadmium Content | Transfer to Brewed Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Coffee | 0.004 μg per 1 gram | — |
| Brewed Infusion | — | Approximately 95.5% of Cd from dry coffee |
Regulatory bodies worldwide establish safe intake levels for cadmium, and the amounts found in coffee are typically well below these thresholds, making it a minor source of cadmium exposure. While some heavy metals can be present in trace amounts in various foods due to environmental factors, the concentrations of cadmium in coffee are not considered a significant health concern.
