Sweet and Sweeter.
Coffee Smarter Season 2: Episode 9
Coffee Smarter Season 2: Episode 9
Topic: Adding Sugars And Sweeteners
Guest: Chris O’Brien, Coffee Cycle Roasting
Title: Founder & Head Roaster
Connect: Coffee Cycle Roasting • www.coffeecycleroasting.com • @coffeecycleroasting
The experimental question is whether or not sugar can be a substance of abuse and lead to a natural form of addiction. “Food addiction” seems plausible because brain pathways that evolved to respond to natural rewards are also activated by addictive drugs. Sugar is noteworthy as a substance that releases opioids and dopamine and thus might be expected
to have addictive potential.
From: Evidence for sugar addiction: Behavioral and neurochemical effects of intermittent, excessive sugar intake. Authored by: Nicole M. Avena, Pedro Rada, and Bartley G. Hoebel
It isn’t only straight up sugar that can help create a pleasant mix of bitter and sweet in your cup. Any sweet additive including cinnamon, honey, agave, chocolate, or sugar alternative can be used used as a counterbalance to the bitterness.
I am a huge fan of Guittard brand chocolates not only for taste but also their company ethos. https://www.guittard.com/
Coffee has naturally occurring sugars which are likely enhanced in a lighter roast.
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Check out our World of Coffee free coffee giveaway collaboration with Roastar Coffee Packaging, featuring Coffee Santa
We visit with the guests of CoffeeFest NYC as part of the Roastar coffee packaging booth in March 2026.
Jean Brillman of White Horse Coffee Roasters in Jenkintown, PA was our first podcast guest at the Roastar booth during CoffeeFest NYC.
Jean Brillman of White Horse Coffee Roasters in Jenkintown, PA was our first podcast guest at the Roastar booth during CoffeeFest NYC.