Final answer:
A single espresso shot typically contains about 64 mg of caffeine, a double shot approximately 128 mg, and a ristretto slightly less than a regular shot due to less water. Espresso has a higher caffeine concentration per ounce compared to common beverages like tea and brewed coffee.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Espresso and Caffeine Content
When discussing types of espressos offered at coffee shops, the three most common ones referenced are a single espresso shot, a double shot (also known as a doppio), and a ristretto. Each type differs slightly in taste, concentration, and caffeine content. The standard single espresso shot, which is about 1 ounce (oz), generally contains approximately 64 milligrams (mg) of caffeine, while a double shot, which is 2 ounces, would contain roughly double that amount, at about 128 mg of caffeine. A ristretto is a more concentrated espresso shot with less water, resulting in a flavor that's bolder and less bitter, but with slightly less caffeine than a regular espresso shot due to the reduced water volume.
In comparison to other caffeinated beverages, an espresso shot can have a higher concentration of caffeine per ounce. For example, a single ounce of Starbuck's Grande Coffee might have less caffeine than a single espresso shot. Different beverages such as plain brewed coffee, tea, and various soft drinks and energy drinks like Coca-Cola Classic, Monster Energy, and Red Bull also contain varying amounts of caffeine.