Coffee Processing
Coffee processing is the method of transforming freshly harvested coffee cherries into green coffee beans ready for roasting. This process typically involves two main methods: the washed process and the natural process. In the washed process, the cherries are pulped to remove the outer skin, fermented to break down the mucilage, and then washed to extract the beans. In the natural process, the cherries are dried in the sun with the fruit intact, allowing the beans to absorb flavors from the fruit.
After processing, the green coffee beans are sorted and graded based on size and quality. They are then packaged and shipped to roasters around the world. Proper processing is crucial as it significantly impacts the flavor profile and quality of the final brewed coffee. Each method can produce distinct taste characteristics, influencing the overall coffee experience.