The Evolution and Popularity of Caffeine

This chapter explores the evolution and popularity of caffeine, discussing its presence in various plants such as coffee beans, tea leaves, maté, and chocolate. It delves into a study on the synthesis of caffeine in coffee plants and the convergent evolution of caffeine production in different plants. The chapter also touches on the role of caffeine as a deterrent to predation, the human perception of bitterness, and the presence of bitter drinks in cocktail culture.