Swiss Water Decaf

When you see the Swiss Water® name, it means your favorite roaster offers 100% chemical-free decaffeinated coffee

All decaffeination processes are not created equal.

METHYLENE CHLORIDE

A widely-used method of chemical solvent decaffeination uses Methylene Chloride, or dichloromethane, to remove caffeine particles from coffee. Unfortunately, it's not the safest substance, and has been banned in paint thinners and other industrial products for its toxicity. The use of Methylene Chloride as a decaffeination solvent is ages-old, but personally, we’d prefer to avoid even the smallest amount in what we consume.

ETHYL ACETATE, SUGARCANE, OR 'NATURAL' DECAFFEINATION

Another popular chemical solvent method is Ethyl Acetate, or acetylated ethyl alcohol. While it can be naturally derived, and is sometimes described as a natural process, at commercial scale, synthetic production is required. When used to decaffeinate, Ethyl Acetate changes the flavor of the coffee, adding a lingering fruity characteristic. We’d prefer our coffee to taste the way it was intended.

CARBON DIOXIDE

Carbon dioxide (or CO2) occurs naturally, but for commercial use is generally distilled from industrial byproduct. As a decaffeination medium, CO2 is used under pressure to improve its extractive properties. The CO2 process does not use chemical solvents.