Doctors and nurses rank second only to journalists in daily caffeine intake

Healthcare workers—including doctors and nurses—are among the professions consuming the most coffee each day, according to a new survey of 20,000 global workers across multiple sectors

The study found that healthcare staff drink an average of 3.60 cups of coffee per day, reflecting the intense schedules, demanding shifts, and long hours that define their roles. Only journalists and media staff reported drinking more, at 3.62 cups daily. Police officers followed with an average of 2.52 cups per day, then drivers (2.50) and company executives (2.40).

The findings, part of Pressat’s second annual workplace survey, highlight how certain high-pressure professions rely on caffeine to keep going. IT support staff also ranked highly, averaging 2.39 cups daily.

At the other end of the scale, electricians, marketers, and advertising professionals reported much lower consumption—around 1.3 cups or less per day. Plumbers and telesales staff also reported relatively modest intake, averaging about 1.28 and 1.23 cups respectively.

A strong coffee helps millions start their day, and 20.32% of respondents admitted they feel a noticeable difference when they skip their usual caffeine fix.

Max Forrest at Pressat said:

“This is the second year we’ve run this survey to track coffee habits in the workplace. Healthcare workers have climbed from fifth to second place, which comes as no surprise given the pressures on hospitals, ongoing NHS budget cuts, and the demands of shift work. We expected those on the frontline—doctors, nurses, and other healthcare staff—to rank among the top, and the data confirms it.”

Although journalists drink slightly more coffee on average, marketing professionals spend the most on it—€13.27 per week. Advertising professionals (€12.98), electricians (€12.96), police officers (€12.88), and company executives (€12.72) all outspend healthcare workers (€12.66) despite drinking less.

The survey also explored preferences such as plant-based milk. Police officers (21.99%), company executives (21.98%), and plumbers or trade workers (20.93%) were most likely to opt for non-dairy options. Teachers (20.25%) and retail staff (20.24%) followed close behind, showing that these preferences now extend well beyond traditionally health‑conscious groups.

Caffeine affects individuals differently, and while many benefit from its stimulating effects, health authorities recommend moderation. Both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Food Safety Authority consider up to 400 milligrams per day—around four or five cups—safe for most adults, with lower limits advised for pregnant women.