How Decaffeinated Coffee is Made: The Scoop on Decaf Coffee

How Decaffeinated Coffee Works: Here's What to Know if You Need a Break from Caffeine!

For many people, coffee is a big part of waking up! The caffeine in coffee is certainly a perk. However, many of us enjoy drinking coffee for more than just its energy-boosting abilities. The delicious flavor nuances and distinctive aroma of coffee can be hard to resist! So what should you do if you are craving coffee but need to skip the caffeine? That's where decaf coffee comes in. 

For those who like the taste of coffee or are comforted by a warm cup of joe in the afternoon, decaf coffee is the perfect solution. Here, we will go over everything you need to know about decaf coffee. We will discuss how acidic decaf coffee is, how decaf coffee is made, and whether it is good for you. Hopefully, this guide will answer your frequently asked questions about decaffeinated coffee so that you can enjoy more caffeine-free moments of relaxation!

How Decaf Coffee Is Made

First of all, let's talk about what decaf coffee is and how it is made. Decaffeinated coffee is what the name suggests, coffee minus the caffeine. Most commonly, decaf coffee is made using a liquid washing caffeine removal process involving an acetate agent. With this flushing method, the coffee beans are steamed and rinsed repeatedly using a solvent. This removes about 99% of their caffeine content. 

However, there are other ways to decaffeinate coffee as well. Coffee can naturally be decaffeinated with ethyl acetate. Ethyl acetate is an ester found naturally in fruits and vegetables like bananas, apples, and coffee. This liquid solvent is circulated through layers of moist, green coffee beans. Through repeated rinses and flushes, most of the caffeine is removed or recaptured in an evaporator. Then, the coffee beans are rinsed with water. 

Decaffeinated coffee can also be made using liquid carbon dioxide or water. It all depends on the coffee producer. There are even organic decaffeinated blends available. 

What is the flavor of decaf coffee vs regular coffee like? 

Generally, decaf coffee and regular coffee taste the same. However, some avid coffee drinkers may find decaf to be slightly sour in taste. This is due to the processing method used to remove the caffeine. It depends on how the decaf coffee was prepared. Most coffee drinkers can't tell the difference between decaf and regular coffee. 

Is decaf coffee acidic?

Decaf coffee is about as acidic as any other kind of coffee. Acidity levels depend on the coffee beans, how long they're roasted, and where they were grown. Studies have found that in many cases, decaf tends to be less acidic than caffeinated coffee. This is because when the caffeine is extracted from the coffee beans, their phenolic levels are reduced. 

Contrary to popular belief, a lighter roast does not indicate less acidity. In fact, the darker coffee bean roast levels are, the less acidity there will be. This is because roasting breaks down acids and removes the caffeine. So, for the smoothest decaf coffee, choose a dark roast.

Where can you get whole decaf coffee beans?

Decaf coffee beans come in many grind levels and styles. You can get whole coffee beans, finely ground beans, standard grounds, a French Press grind, and espresso grinds. If you want to select your preferred decaf coffee grinds level, we can help! 

At One Great Coffee, we offer all of our blends, including the decaf ones, in multiple grind styles or as whole beans. All you need to do is select your preferred grind level from the drop-down menu. Check out our custom Gourmet Coffee or Flavored Selections by following the links. 

Is decaf coffee a diuretic?

No, decaf coffee is not a diuretic. Decaf coffee is not a diuretic because the caffeine is almost entirely removed. This works to negate the standard diuretic effects. Yes, drinking coffee can make you pee, as with any other liquid. However, if it is decaf, you won't have to pee as much. So, if you are craving coffee on your next road trip or before a long business meeting, consider going with decaf! 

Is decaffeinated coffee for pregnant women safe?

There aren't any official guidelines on decaffeinated coffee for pregnant women. However, if you are craving coffee during pregnancy, studies suggest decaf is probably the best option. Remember, it is best to enjoy coffee in moderation when pregnant, so don't overdo it. Most agree that in moderation, decaf coffee is safe but will be up to your discretion! 

Is decaf coffee good for you?

It all depends on what you are looking to achieve! Decaf coffee has lots of antioxidants which can help to neutralize free radicals in your body. This helps to reduce oxidative damage and may even help to prevent things like Type 2 Diabetes. Other studies suggest that drinking coffee may reduce your risk of cancer. 

Also, coffee contains magnesium. Magnesium plays many key roles in the body such as supporting your muscular and nervous systems, helping with energy, and reducing the risk of high blood pressure. 

What is the best decaf coffee?

Once again, this will depend on what you are looking for. Many of our decaf blends are extremely popular with shoppers. For instance, if you are looking for organic decaf coffee, we have some great options right here. If you are looking for flavored decaf coffee, we also have you covered. The best decaf coffee will be the one that has all the benefits you are looking for and a flavor you love! 

Is decaf coffee organic?

It depends on how it is made. To be certified organic, a product must adhere to certain guidelines. Some decaf coffee is organic while other decaf coffee is made with chemicals. However, most of the time, the chemicals used to make decaf coffee are safe to consume. For instance, Ethyl acetate is a naturally occurring chemical compound often used to decaffeinate coffee.