Decaf coffee often gets a bad reputation for being flat or lacking the vibrant flavors of its caffeinated counterparts. However, modern decaffeination methods, like Ethyl Acetate (EA) decaffeination, preserve the integrity of the coffee’s natural flavors, resulting in a decaf coffee that is just as rich and enjoyable as a regular cup.
What is EA Decaffeination?
EA (Ethyl Acetate) decaffeination is a natural process that removes caffeine using ethyl acetate, a compound derived from sugar cane. This method is widely used in Colombia, where sugar cane is abundant. Unlike traditional decaffeination techniques that rely on high pressure or extreme temperatures, the EA method is gentle and preserves the integrity of the coffee's natural flavours, allowing the coffee’s terroir to shine through.
How Does It Work?
The process begins by fermenting sugar cane molasses to produce ethyl acetate. Once the EA is created, the green coffee beans are steamed in tanks to open their pores and increase moisture content. Then, the EA is circulated through the beans, selectively bonding with and dissolving the caffeine while leaving the flavorful compounds intact. Once the desired level of decaffeination is achieved, the beans are washed with water and steamed again to remove any residual EA. Finally, the beans are dried and prepared for roasting.
Why Choose EA Decaf?
EA decaffeination maintains a coffee’s natural sweetness and brightness. The absence of excessive heat and pressure helps preserve the unique characteristics of each coffee, ensuring that decaf drinkers don’t have to compromise on flavour.
For those who love the taste of specialty coffee but want to reduce their caffeine intake, EA decaf offers the best of both worlds — exceptional flavour with none of the jitters. Whether you’re enjoying a late-night espresso or a second (or third!) cup in the afternoon, EA decaffeination ensures that every sip is as satisfying as the first.
Check out our current selection of Decaf coffees here!