Demystify Decaf
We Take Decaf Seriously. Take a deeper look into the Swiss Water™️ decaffeination process and the health benefits of drinking decaf coffee. A 100% Natural and 99.9% caffeine free.
Swiss Water Decaffeinated Coffee Inc. Headquarters - Delta, BC, Canada
Role of Green Coffee Extract| The Challenges of Roasting | Health Benefits
Today, let's delve into the intricacies of roasting decaffeinated coffee beans and explore the fascinating role of green coffee extract, particularly in the Swiss Water Process™️.
Decaffeination processes have been experimented with since at least the early 1900s. Initially, these methods involved using solvents such as benzene, chloroform, and ethyl acetate to extract caffeine from coffee beans. The first commercially successful decaffeination method was developed by a German merchant named Ludwig Roselius in 1903. Roselius accidentally discovered the decaffeination process when a shipment of coffee beans was soaked in seawater during transit, resulting in the beans losing their caffeine content. He then refined this process using benzene as a solvent and patented it as the "Roselius Process."
In the 1930s, a Swiss company developed a decaffeination method known as the Swiss Water Process™️. This method used water as a solvent to remove caffeine from coffee beans. It became popular for producing decaf coffee without the use of chemicals, leading to its widespread adoption in the industry.
One of the primary difficulties we face when roasting decaf beans is their inherent fragility. Decaffeination alters the composition of coffee beans, affecting their density and internal structure. This can lead to variations in moisture content and thermal conductivity, making decaf beans more susceptible to uneven roasting or scorching if not handled carefully.
However, the Swiss Water Process stands out not only for its solvent-free nature but also for its innovative use of green coffee extract. This extract plays a crucial role in the decaffeination process and has implications for roasting quality.
The Swiss Water Process™️
Initial Soaking: The process begins by soaking a batch of green (unroasted) coffee beans in hot water. This step helps to dissolve and extract the caffeine along with various coffee compounds from the beans.
Caffeine Extraction and Green Coffee Extract: The water containing the extracted caffeine and coffee flavors is then passed through activated charcoal filters. These filters are specially designed to trap caffeine molecules while allowing the larger coffee molecules to pass through. What remains is a flavor-rich green coffee extract, devoid of caffeine but still containing many soluble coffee compounds that contribute to flavor and aroma.
Reuse of Green Coffee Extract: The beauty of the Swiss Water Process lies in its recycling of the green coffee extract. This flavor-rich water is used in a continuous cycle where new batches of green coffee beans are soaked in it. Since the water already contains the desired coffee flavors but is now devoid of caffeine, it will only extract additional caffeine from the new batch of beans, leaving the flavor profile intact.
Understanding the role of green coffee extract in the decaffeination process highlights the complexity and care involved in producing quality decaf coffee. At Nary & Ross Artisan Coffee, we value this intricate process and its impact on the final product's flavor and aroma.
By educating ourselves and our customers about these intricacies, we enhance appreciation for the art and science behind decaf coffee production. We invite you to join us on this journey of discovery and enjoy the rich flavors of meticulously roasted decaf coffee.
5 Health Benefits
While regular coffee often takes the spotlight, decaf coffee offers its own set of health benefits, especially when it comes to polyphenols—a group of antioxidants found in various plant-based foods and beverages, including coffee. Let's delve into the compelling health advantages of decaf coffee, focusing on the power of polyphenols:
Antioxidants
Polyphenols are known for their antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body. Decaf coffee contains significant polyphenols like chlorogenic acids, contributing to its antioxidant activity. By neutralizing free radicals, polyphenols aid in protecting cells from damage and may lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain cancers.
Heart Health Support
Regular consumption of polyphenol-rich foods, including decaf coffee, can benefit cardiovascular health. Polyphenols contribute to improved blood vessel function, regulation of blood pressure, and reduction of LDL cholesterol levels. These effects collectively promote heart health and lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Cognitive Benefits
Polyphenols in decaf coffee have been associated with potential cognitive advantages. Research suggests that these compounds protect brain cells from damage, support cognitive function, and may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Chronic inflammation is linked to various health issues, including arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. The anti-inflammatory effects of polyphenols in decaf coffee help modulate the body's inflammatory response, promoting overall health and reducing the risk of inflammatory conditions.
Digestive Wellness
Certain polyphenols found in decaf coffee, such as catechins and tannins, contribute to digestive health. They support a healthy gut microbiota, reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, and may lower the risk of digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD/IBS) and colorectal cancer.
Many misconceptions surround decaffeinated coffee, particularly in the United States, where false information about the decaffeination process can lead to confusion. However, we are highly confident that the Swiss Water Process (SWP) stands out as the best option for both the end customer and the coffee itself.
It's important to note that no decaffeination method can completely remove 100% of the caffeine from coffee beans. However, the SWP achieves an impressive 99.9% caffeine removal while preserving the natural flavors and aromas of the coffee.
Roasting decaffeinated beans comes with its own set of challenges, but we have dedicated countless hours to perfecting the flavor profiles of each of our decaf offerings. We are strong advocates for decaffeinated coffee and strive to ensure that our customers are more than satisfied with the quality of our product.
We believe in delivering an exceptional coffee experience, whether it's caffeinated or decaffeinated. We invite you to explore our range of decaf coffees and discover the rich flavors that make them a delightful choice for any coffee enthusiast.
Audrey & Elliott
Co-Founders, Nary & Ross Artisan Coffee