COFFEE FAQs
Frequently Asked Coffee Questions
What is Fat Miilk?
We're a Vietnamese coffee company that offers a boldly authentic, yet remixed version of Vietnamese coffee with premium robusta beans. We are uniquely positioned as a Vietnamese coffee company with streetwear inspired branding and a message of celebrating the hustle. We're here to reinvent and modernize the Vietnamese coffee experience.
Why is it called Fat Miilk?
Before Vietnamese coffee was known for all its unique complexities in origin, regions, varietals, harvest, and brew style, it was commonly recognized for its preparation and pairing with sweetened condensed milk over ice (Cà Phê Sữa Đá). Hence, our name is Fat Miilk.
We honor and celebrate the recognition this classic drink has attributed to the expansion of Vietnamese coffee culture, but we also named our company Fat Miilk to extend the conversation further. Vietnamese coffee is much more than a drink style, and we get to expound on that narrative through our product offerings, storytelling, and overall brand.
What is Vietnamese Coffee?
Vietnamese coffee is simply coffee beans from Vietnam. Vietnam is the #1 producer of Robusta beans globally and the second largest producer of coffee in the world (behind Brazil). Robusta coffee is well-suited to Vietnam's climate and growing conditions. Vietnamese coffee is known for its unique brewing method using a “phin”, its dark and bold flavor profile, and how it’s commonly prepared with condensed milk and other creamers.
What is the difference between Arabica and Robusta beans?
Arabica and Robusta are the two main coffee bean species commercially cultivated and consumed worldwide. They differ in several aspects, including taste, growing conditions, caffeine content, and price.
In general, Arabica beans exhibit a wide range of flavors, including floral, fruity, and acidic notes. On the other hand, Robusta beans have a stronger and bolder taste with earthy, nutty, and sometimes woody flavors. Robusta coffee is often described as having a more straightforward and less subtle taste compared to Arabica.
We specialize in the Robusta bean, a coffee with twice the caffeine content of Arabica. This higher caffeine content contributes to the stronger and more robust flavor of Robusta coffee. If you like strong coffee, Robusta is your friend.
Where is your coffee sourced?
We work with small-batch farmers throughout the Central Highlands of Vietnam to vet and source quality green coffee beans. With the support of our small team in Vietnam, we meticulously detail every step of the process from coffee farm to brewed cup. There is no third party and no aspect overlooked, allowing us to prioritize a fair and honest trade with local farmers while supporting them harvest after harvest.
Where do you roast your coffee?
Our coffee is currently roasted with love in the Chicago suburb of Elmhurst, Illinois, by Brewpoint Coffee - a 100% woman and minority-owned business whose mission is to build an equitable and inclusive world through coffee.
Is your coffee organic?
Yes, we work with local farmers throughout Vietnam to vet and source the highest quality of organic beans.
Does your coffee have milk in it?
Fat Miilk beans are 100% roasted coffee without any added dairy, additives, oils, or artificial flavorings.
Do you offer decaf coffee?
At the moment, we do not offer decaf coffee.
Do you sell K-Cups/Coffee Pods?
At the moment, we do not, but most coffee-maker brands sell reusable pods that can be filled with any coffee of your choice (including ours).
Do you sell ready-to-drink coffee?
At the moment, we do not sell ready-to-drink coffee.
What is the expiration date for your coffee?
Coffee doesn't necessarily have an expiration date like many perishable food items. However, it can lose its freshness and flavor over time. The shelf life depends on several factors, including the type of coffee, how it is stored, and whether it is whole bean (longer) or ground (shorter).
Once our coffee is roasted, it’s the freshest for up to four months – but can last up to 6 months in the right conditions. We roast to order and roast dates are noticeably labeled on our coffee.
How do I store my coffee?
Whole beans and ground coffee should be stored properly in a cool, dark place away from heat, light, and moisture. Store our coffee in an airtight container for an even longer shelf life. Coffee stored in the freezer is subject to potential flavor degradation due to moisture and the absorption of other freezer odors.
We recommend buying coffee in smaller quantities and consuming it within a few weeks of purchase - check our subscription options so you get the freshest batch every time.