Decaf Coffee: What It Is, How It's Made, and Where to Buy
Decaf coffee is a type of coffee from which 97% to 99.9% of the caffeine has been removed during the decaffeination process. This process begins with green coffee beans before roasting. Four main methods are used: Methylene Chloride and Ethyl Acetate (solvent-based) and Swiss Water® Process and Carbon Dioxide (non-solvent-based). Decaf coffee contains 2 to 15 milligrams of caffeine per cup, significantly less than the 95 to 200 milligrams in regular coffee.
Decaf tends to be smoother, less acidic, and less bitter than regular coffee due to changes in caffeine and chlorogenic acid levels during the decaffeination process. People choose decaf for better sleep, managing caffeine sensitivity and health conditions, lifestyle preferences, and safe use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Despite a growing decaf market, methylene chloride concerns have led the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) to petition the FDA for a ban. This concern has increased the popularity of safer alternatives, such as the Swiss Water® Process.
When choosing the best decaf coffee, consider the decaffeination process, roast profile, and grind size to suit your preferred coffee brewing method (espresso, French press, cold brew, etc.). Popular Swiss Water® decaf brands in the US include Jim's Organic Coffee, Allegro Coffee, Colipse Coffee, and Tim Hortons.
What is Decaf Coffee?
Decaf coffee is a type of coffee made from regular coffee beans that go through a decaffeination process to remove most of the caffeine. This process removes at least 97% of caffeine from coffee beans using various methods. A typical cup of decaf coffee contains about 2 mg of caffeine, while a regular cup has about 95 mg. Decaf coffee is not 100% caffeine-free, but its reduced caffeine content lowers risks of GERD symptoms, anxiety, and pregnancy complications. A 2023 study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology by Llewellyn Mills found that decaffeinated coffee reduces caffeine withdrawal symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms, by 19%.
ISO 3509-1989 defines decaffeinated coffee as "coffee from which caffeine has been extracted," though the required level of caffeine reduction for labeling varies worldwide. In the UK and EU, "decaf" coffee must be 99.9% caffeine-free. Brazil sets stricter limits, allowing less than 0.1% caffeine. The U.S. defines decaf as having a 97% caffeine reduction. For instant decaf coffee, the EU limits caffeine to 0.3%, while the U.S. applies the 97% reduction standard.
What is the Difference Between Decaf and Regular Coffee?
The main differences between decaf and regular coffee is their caffeine content, taste, and roasting consistency. Regular Arabica coffee beans have about 1.2-1.5% caffeine, while Robusta beans have about 2.2-2.7%. Decaf coffee beans have much less – only about 0.1% caffeine or less, whether they're roasted or not.
Decaf coffee tastes different because the decaffeination process removes oils and compounds that give coffee its flavor. Removing caffeine, a bitter substance, makes decaf less bitter. While decaf coffee aims to mimic regular coffee's taste, it often has muted flavors.
Decaf beans roast faster and are harder to roast evenly. This is because the decaffeination process can alter the structure of the beans. However, as they roast, they still develop aroma and flavor, similar to regular beans.
Decaf and regular coffee appeal to different consumers. Decaf is often chosen by those seeking to avoid caffeine's effects, such as anxiety or insomnia. On the other hand, regular coffee is preferred by those who want an energy boost.
Unlike regular coffee, decaf undergoes an extra processing step to remove caffeine. This process can involve various techniques, including using water, solvents, or carbon dioxide to extract the caffeine from the beans.
How Much Caffeine is in Decaf Coffee?
One 8-ounce (237 mL) cup of decaf coffee has an average of 2-5 mg of caffeine, while a single shot (30 mL) of decaf espresso has 0.3 mg, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The amount of residual caffeine in decaf coffee that is left after being removed can vary depending on the type of coffee species, cultivation methods, bean production process, and decaffeination method.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that decaf coffee can contain up to 15 milligrams per 8-ounce cup. A 2016 study from the University of Florida titled "Caffeine Content of Decaffeinated Coffee" further supports this FDA wider range. This study, published in the Journal of Analytical Toxicology, found varying caffeine levels in decaf coffee. Folgers instant decaf had no caffeine, while brands like Krispy Kreme, Dunkin', and McCafe had over 10 milligrams per 16 ounces. The study also found that six decaf espresso samples averaged 7.02 milligrams of caffeine per serving, with a range from 3.0 to 15.8 milligrams.
Interestingly, a 2005 investigation by ABC News found that some decaf coffee servings from Starbucks and McDonald's contained as much caffeine as regular espresso. While both Starbucks and McDonald's suggested these results were likely due to human error, it highlights the importance of being aware that the amount of caffeine in decaf coffee can vary.
How is Decaf Coffee Made?
Decaf coffee is made using a decaffeination process that begins with green coffee beans before roasting. Decaf process is not typically handled by coffee brands or roasters themselves, but rather by private companies like Delica AG, CafeX, Swiss Water Decaffeinated Coffee Co., and Descafemex. These companies operate specialized decaffeination facilities located in countries like Switzerland, Germany, Canada, and Mexico.
These companies remove caffeine using various methods, including solvent-based extraction (direct or indirect, using methylene chloride or ethyl acetate), the carbon dioxide (CO2) method, and water processes like the French Water Process or the Swiss Water® Process. Most decaf is made from Arabica coffee beans. Early decaffeination methods used a variety of harmful chemical solvents like like benzene, chloroform, ether, and acetone, but these have been largely replaced by safer and more effective techniques.
What are the Different Methods Used to Make Decaf Coffee?
There are four different methods used to make decaf coffee: two solvent-based methods, which use chemical solvents to remove caffeine, and two non-solvent-based methods, which use water or carbon dioxide to extract caffeine naturally.
The most common decaf processing methods are listed below.
- Methylene Chloride
- Ethyl Acetate
- Swiss Water® Process
- Carbon Dioxide
What is Methylene Chloride Decaf Coffee?
Methylene chloride decaf coffee is a type of decaffeinated coffee where methylene chloride, a chemical solvent, is used to extract caffeine from green coffee beans. Methylene chloride (dichloromethane) is a volatile, non-flammable, and colorless liquid used since the 1970s to decaffeinate coffee beans. The FDA-approved methylene chloride decaf process requires green coffee beans to be soaked in hot water, then washed with methylene chloride at levels not exceeding 10 ppm (0.001%).
Methylene chloride decaf, known as the 'European Method,' is popular for its efficiency but may leave trace caffeine and health risks. Although the NCA claims all decaf methods are safe, activist groups are pushing for a ban, citing potential chemical risks in certain brands. The following list shows 17 brands that use Methylene chloride decaffeination.
- Amazon Fresh
- Cafe Bustelo
- Community Coffee
- Don Francisco's
- Door County Coffee
- Dunkin Donuts Coffee
- Eight O'Clock
- Gevalia
- Great Value (Walmart)
- Green Mountain Coffee
- Kirkland
- Kroger
- Maxwell House
- McCafe (McDonald's)
- Nash's Coffee Co.
- New England Coffee
- Private Selection
At Colipse, we do not sell methylene chloride decaf coffee.
What is Ethyl Acetate Decaf Coffee?
Ethyl acetate decaf coffee is a type of decaffeinated coffee that uses ethyl acetate, a natural compound found in many fruits, to extract caffeine from coffee beans. The ethyl acetate is a natural, clear, colorless, and flammable ester with a fruity odor and taste. This decaf process effectively removes 97% of caffeine from unroasted coffee beans without significantly altering their flavor, aroma, or chlorogenic acid content.
A 2009 study at the Indonesian Coffee and Cocoa Research Institute and Bogor Agricultural University found the ethyl acetate decaf method can remove almost all caffeine (0.3% remaining) under ideal conditions. The ideal brewing method to make Ethyl Acetate decaf coffee depends on your personal preference. You can use automatic drip makers, pour-over, French press, or even espresso machines. Ethyl Acetate decaf coffee is generally priced similarly to other specialty decaf coffees. The following table shows brands and their products that use ethyl acetate decaffeination method.
Brand | Coffee Product Name | Decaf Process |
---|---|---|
1850 Coffee | Fraction Packs, Pioneer Blend Decaf, Medium Roast | Chemical solvent: ethyl acetate |
Chock Full O' Nuts | Original Decaf | Chemical solvent: ethyl acetate |
Chock Full O' Nuts | 1/2 Caff | Chemical solvent: ethyl acetate |
Folgers Coffee | 100% Colombian Decaf Coffee K-Cup Pods | Chemical solvent: ethyl acetate |
Folgers Coffee | Simply Smooth Decaf Coffee | Chemical solvent: ethyl acetate |
Giant Food Stores | Original Coffee Decaf (Ground) | Chemical solvent: ethyl acetate |
Giant Food Stores | Original Medium Roast Coffee Decaf (Ground) | Chemical solvent: ethyl acetate |
Hy-Vee | Hazelnut Decaffeinated Light Roast Ground Coffee | Chemical solvent: ethyl acetate |
Hy-Vee | Decaf Breakfast Blend Single Serve Cups | Chemical solvent: ethyl acetate |
At Colipse, we do not sell ethyl acetate decaf coffee.
What is Swiss Water® Process Decaf Coffee?
Swiss Water® Processed decaf coffee is a type of decaffeinated coffee that uses the proprietary Swiss Water® Process. Swiss Water® Processed decaf coffee removes up to 99.9% of caffeine without the use of solvents, additives, or chemicals. The Swiss Water® method decaffeinates green (unroasted) coffee beans by soaking them in purified hot water to dissolve caffeine, sugars, and flavor compounds. The resulting flavorful, aromatic, and caffeine-rich water, known as green coffee extract, is then filtered through activated carbon to remove the caffeine.
The primary advantages of decaf coffee made with the Swiss Water® Process are its chemical-free nature and its versatility; it can be brewed using various methods, including drip, pour-over, French press, and espresso machines. However, this method is more time-consuming and expensive than other decaffeination processes, leading to a higher price for consumers. Consequently, not all decaf coffee brands utilize it. For the best-tasting Swiss Water® decaf, seek out freshly roasted beans from a local roaster or online coffee store specializing in decaffeinated coffee.
At Colipse, our Decaf Espresso, Half Caff Blend, and Decaf Cold Brew Blend are decaffeinated with the Swiss Water® Process.
What is Carbon Dioxide Decaf Coffee?
Carbon Dioxide decaf coffee is a type of decaffeinated coffee where the caffeine is removed using pressurized liquid carbon dioxide (CO2). The CO2 decaf coffee is made by treating unroasted coffee beans with supercritical carbon dioxide to efficiently reduce caffeine while preserving valuable coffee compounds like trigonelline and chlorogenic acid. Decaffeination occurs by recirculating supercritical CO2 until less than 0.08% caffeine remains in beans.
Carbon dioxide decaf coffee is safe and FDA-approved. According to researchers from the Central Food Technological Research Institute, carbon dioxide has no known deleterious effects when used as a decaf coffee solvent. The main advantage of choosing CO2 decaf coffee is that it can be brewed using any method you would use for regular coffee, but the CO2 decaffeination process is usually more expensive than the Swiss Water® Process. Decaf coffee produced using Carbon dioxide extraction is considered environmentally friendly due to the reduced need for harmful organic solvents. The best CO2 decaf coffee is freshly roasted single-origin coffee from a reputable roaster that specializes in decaffeination.
At Colipse, we do not sell carbon dioxide decaf coffee.
How Does Decaf Coffee Taste?
Decaf and regular coffee don't taste the same. You can taste the difference, primarily because the decaffeination process can alter the chemical composition of the beans, affecting factors like acidity, aroma, and sweetness.
A 2006 study by Adriana Farah at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine confirmed a taste difference between decaf and regular coffee. Decaf coffee is smoother, less acidic, and less bitter because decaffeination reduces chlorogenic acid (CGA) by 3-9% and increases chlorogenic acid lactone (CGL) by 5.5-18%.
However, the specific taste differences of decaf coffee, and whether or not it tastes good, can vary depending on the decaffeination method used. As explained in Chapter 10 of the book "The Craft and Science of Coffee" by Arne Pietsch, the decaffeination method plays a significant role in the final taste of decaf coffee. The following list summarizes the potential flavor drawbacks of decaf coffee processed using different methods compared to regular coffee.
- Methylene chloride (European) method: May have a weaker or "cooked" flavor.
- Supercritical CO2 method: Can sometimes taste flat or "predictable."
- Swiss Water® Process: May lose some soluble oils and solids, resulting in a bland, thin, or less sweet taste.
Regardless of the decaffeination method, decaf coffee still tastes like normal coffee, but will almost always be less bitter than regular coffee. This is because caffeine itself contributes to the bitterness of coffee.
Is Decaf Coffee Healthy?
There is no single answer to whether decaf coffee is healthier or better than regular coffee, although some studies have shown interesting differences. Decaf coffee is gentler on your stomach, especially if you have acid reflux. A 1997 study published in Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics found that switching to decaf greatly reduced acid reflux episodes. However, the study only looked at acid reflux, not other digestive problems.
A 2017 study by Andrea Staack from the Department of Urology at Loma Linda University showed decaf coffee reduces bathroom trips and bladder problems better than regular coffee. People who had regular coffee with 450 mg of caffeine daily for 5 days had more urgency and frequency. Those who drank decaf with 12 mg of caffeine didn't. The study didn't look at UTIs or dehydration. Decaf coffee is better for anxiety and mental health than regular coffee. A 2024 meta-analysis by Chen Liu from Xuzhou Medical University found that regular coffee, especially with over 400 mg of caffeine, increases anxiety risk. Decaf does not increase this risk, making it a safer choice.
What Are the Health Benefits of Drinking Decaf Coffee?
Decaf coffee offers a range of health benefits, including improved liver health, enhanced brain function, antioxidant properties, and some evidence suggests it may provide relief from constipation.
- Drinking decaf coffee improves liver health. A study by Wedick et al. (2014) shows that drinking 5 cups of decaf coffee daily for 8 weeks lowers levels of a protein linked to liver disease. This suggests decaf coffee may improve liver health. More studies are needed to confirm these findings.
- Drinking decaf coffee improves brain health. A 2020 study by Raffaella Colombo and Adele Papetti at the University of Pavia showed that decaf filter coffee contains polyphenols, like chlorogenic acids, which protect brain cells. These compounds lower the risk of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, improve memory, and reduce risks of neuropathic pain and cerebral ischemia.
- Drinking decaf coffee provides antioxidants that fight inflammation. These antioxidants, including phenolics, chlorogenic acids, cafestol, and kahweol, counteract the negative effects of caffeine. Decaf is also high in antioxidants like caffeoylquinic acids, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Drinking decaf coffee helps with constipation. A study from the Royal Hallamshire Hospital found that decaf coffee made some people feel the need to poop within four minutes of drinking it. This effect lasted for at least 30 minutes. However, a 2024 study by Yulong Kang Jin Yan, using a large NHANES dataset of 13,816 participants, found that decaf coffee had minimal impact compared to caffeinated coffee.
Is Decaf Coffee Safe?
The safety of decaf coffee is a topic of ongoing discussion. The National Coffee Association (NCA) asserts that decaf coffee is safe, particularly highlighting the methylene chloride decaffeination method (also known as the European Method). They explain that the high temperatures involved in processing the beans evaporate most, if not all, of the chemical solvent.
Rising concerns over the chemical methylene chloride, which has been linked to cancer, have driven consumer interest about the safety of decaf coffee. This shift has prompted the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) to petition the FDA for a ban on decaf coffee made with methylene chloride, while the Clean Label Project (CLP) reports finding traces of the chemical in some decaf brands. As a result, more consumers are choosing safer options like the Swiss Water Process.
Why Do People Choose to Drink Decaf Coffee?
People choose decaf coffee for a variety of reasons, including better sleep, caffeine sensitivity, health concerns, lifestyle preferences, and pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Improved Sleep: Caffeine can trigger or worsen anxiety symptoms and disrupt sleep patterns. Switching to decaf allows individuals to enjoy the ritual and taste of coffee without these negative side effects.
- Sensitivity to Caffeine: Some individuals are more sensitive to caffeine's effects, experiencing jitters, heart palpitations, or digestive issues. Decaf provides an alternative that allows them to enjoy coffee without these adverse reactions.
- Health Conditions: Certain health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart problems, or acid reflux may be aggravated by caffeine consumption. Decaf is a suitable option for those managing these health concerns.
- Lifestyle Choice: Some people simply prefer the taste of decaf or choose it as part of a healthier lifestyle. Decaf offers a way to enjoy coffee without the stimulating effects of caffeine.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women are often advised to limit their caffeine intake. Decaf provides a safe alternative that allows them to enjoy coffee without exceeding recommended limits.
How to Choose Decaf Coffee for Different Brewing Methods?
To choose the best decaf coffee for your brewing method, consider the decaffeination process, roast profile, and grind size. Look for beans decaffeinated using a method that preserves flavor and a roast that suits your taste. Ensure the grind size is appropriate for your preferred coffee brewing method to enjoy your brew.
At Colipse, we have a range of decaf coffee beans and grounds suitable for espresso, French press, cold brew, pour over, drip, or Moka pot. For optimal flavor, use freshly roasted decaf coffee beans within two weeks.
What is the Best Decaf Coffee for Espresso?
The best decaf coffee beans for espresso are those with a darker roast and a full-bodied flavor profile. These beans compliment espresso because they hold up well to the intense brewing process and produce a rich, satisfying cup.
What is the Best Decaf Coffee for Cold Brew?
The best decaf coffee beans for cold brew are medium to dark roasts with chocolatey, nutty, or caramel notes. These roasts tend to have a smoother, fuller body that holds up well to the long steeping process of cold brewing, resulting in a less acidic and more flavorful concentrate.
What is the Best Decaf Coffee for French Press?
The best decaf coffee beans for French press are typically medium to dark roasts. These roasts offer a full-bodied flavor that can withstand the immersion brewing method of a French press without becoming overly bitter or weak.
What are the Best Decaf Coffee Beans for Pour Over?
The best decaf coffee beans for pour over are light to medium roasts with bright acidity and nuanced flavors. These roasts tend to highlight the delicate flavors and aromas that can be lost in darker roasts, which is ideal for the pour over method's precision and control.
Where To Buy Freshly Roasted Decaf Coffee Beans?
Freshly roasted decaf coffee beans are available from a variety of sources, including local roasters, specialty coffee shops, and online retailers. For the freshest cup, look for beans that have been roasted within the past week or two. One example of an online retailer is Colipse, which offers roast-to-order decaf coffee beans for sale in whole bean and ground forms. These are perfect for brewing everything from decaf espresso to decaf cold brew. Whole bean decaf beans require grinding right before brewing, but it makes the freshest cup. Ground decaf is ready to brew and works in most coffee makers.
What is the Price of Decaf Coffee Beans?
Colipse offers freshly roasted Swiss Water® processed decaf coffee beans directly through their website, available from $24.95 per 12 oz bag. The price of decaf coffee beans can vary based on factors like quality, origin, and roast level. Specialty or organic decaf beans often cost more, while bulk commercial coffees are usually cheaper.
What Are the Best Swiss Water® Processed Decaf Coffee Brands?
These are some of the best Swiss Water decaf coffee brands in the United States.
- Colipse Coffee
- Allegro Coffee
- Tim Hortons
- Jim’s Organic Coffee
- NESCAFÉ
- Illy
- Bulletproof Coffee
- San Francisco Bay Coffee
- Caribou Coffee
Other popular coffee brands like Maxwell House, Publix, and New Englad Coffee do not use the Swiss Water® Process for their decaf coffee: instead, they rely on chemical solvents like methylene chloride or ethyl acetate. Krispy Kreme, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, and Green Mountain Coffee refused to say anything regarding their decaf process.
How does Decaf Coffee Compare to other Types of Coffee Beans?
Decaf coffee, like regular coffee, comes in a variety of coffee bean types, including single-origin and blends. Single-origin decaf beans, just like their caffeinated counterparts, offer unique flavor profiles based on their origin. However, the decaffeination process can sometimes affect the flavor, often leading to a milder taste compared to regular coffee. Drinking decaf coffee allows to avoid caffeine's effects while still enjoying coffee's taste and ritual.
What Are the Facts About Decaf Coffee?
Decaf coffee is made from the same beans as regular coffee, such as Arabica and Robusta, but it undergoes a process to remove most of the caffeine. While there are different methods, they generally involve soaking or steaming the beans and using a solvent to extract the caffeine.
Interestingly, decaf coffee was discovered by accident in 1905 by Ludwig Roselius, a German coffee merchant. He discovered a caffeine-removal method after seawater accidentally soaked a coffee bean shipment, naturally extracting caffeine while preserving the coffee’s flavor.
Decaf coffee market is experiencing significant growth, valued at $20.06 billion in 2023 and projected to reach $39.10 billion by 2033 with an annual growth rate of 6.9%. This increase is driven by rising awareness of caffeine-related health risks and growing demand for organic products. Many people are now trying to reduce their caffeine intake. For example, a 2017 National Coffee Association study found that 68% of people believe caffeine consumption should be reduced.