Solvent process (decaffeination)
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German: Lösungsmittelverfahren (Entkoffeinierung) Also known as: Dichlormethan-Verfahren, Ethylacetat-Verfahren, Methylenchlorid, Sugarcane Decaf
Decaffeination of green coffee with approved extraction solvents such as dichloromethane or ethyl acetate, which are then largely removed.
The green coffee beans are first swollen with water or steam and then treated directly or indirectly with a solvent that binds caffeine. Dichloromethane and ethyl acetate are commonly used; the latter also occurs naturally in fruit and is sometimes obtained from sugar cane. The beans are then steamed, dried and roasted.
Strict maximum residue limits apply in the EU, and remaining traces largely evaporate during roasting. The process is efficient and widespread, but some consumers avoid it.
Related terms
CO2 process (decaffeination)DecaffeinationGreen coffeeWater process (decaffeination)
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