There are a number of different ways to decaffeinate coffee, but the sugarcane process is one of the most natural and sustainable methods. The sugarcane process uses ethyl acetate (EA), a natural compound derived from sugarcane, to extract the caffeine from the coffee beans.
How does the sugarcane decaffeination process work?
The sugarcane decaffeination process begins with the harvesting of ripe coffee cherries. The cherries are then sorted to remove any unripe or damaged cherries. The next step is to remove the pulp and skin from the coffee cherries. This is done using a machine called a depulper. The depulper separates the beans from the pulp and skin, leaving behind a clean bean. The beans are then soaked in a solution of EA and water. The EA binds to the caffeine molecules and extracts them from the coffee beans. The process is repeated several times until all of the caffeine has been removed. Once the caffeine has been removed, the beans are washed thoroughly to remove any remaining EA. The beans are then dried and roasted.
Benefits of the sugarcane decaffeination process
The sugarcane decaffeination process has a number of benefits, including:
- It is a natural process that does not use any harsh chemicals.
- It is a sustainable process that uses a renewable resource, sugarcane.
- It preserves the flavour and aroma of the coffee beans.
