Decaffeination process

US3989850A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• General Foods Limited · US

Inventors

• William Erb · Bristol, GB
• William J. Einstman · Port Chester, US
• Gary V. Jones · Ramsey, US
• George A. McGregor · Amawalk, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 13, 1974
• Grant date: Nov 2, 1976
• Expiry date: Dec 13, 1994

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A23F5/208
• WIPO field: Food chemistry
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Decaffeinated coffee of improved quality is achieved using a process wherein caffeine-containing green coffee is countercurrently extracted with a water solution of coffee solubles. The decaffeinated coffee removed from the extraction zone is treated to remove surface solids contained thereon and is then dried at temperatures not in excess of 200.degree. F. The critical combination of a specified lower limit of surface solids on the coffee prior to drying and the drying temperature has been found to result in a decaffeinated coffee product of improved flavor.