A report from the Seoul Institute of Health and Environment, published on the 23rd, highlights that enjoying drinks and desserts together in coffee shops can significantly increase daily sugar and caffeine intake. Investigating 129 menu items from various coffee and dessert shops, including 83 beverages and 46 desserts, the study found that combinations, such as lattes with cakes, can exceed the recommended sugar intake (50g) by approximately 1.3 times. Furthermore, pairing coffee drinks with certain desserts can push caffeine levels to about 1.6 times the recommended limit for children and adolescents, raising concerns about health risks associated with excessive sugar and caffeine consumption.

The rising trends of high-caffeine products are also alarming, with 64% of the evaluated drinks classified as high-caffeine options. Despite the variety of choices available, most beverages analyzed, including popular ones like Americano and cold brew, contained caffeine levels that could quickly approach or exceed the daily recommended limit of 400mg for adults. This underscores the need for consumers, particularly children and teenagers, to be cautious about their beverage choice, especially in a landscape where customized drinks are prevalent.

The study also indicates that options added during the ordering of custom drinks can significantly alter both sugar and caffeine levels, suggesting that customers have the tools to make healthier choices. The researchers advocate for informed decision-making regarding orders to ensure a healthier café experience, encouraging users to understand their intake levels as they indulge in popular coffee and dessert combinations.