Coffee bean processing methods: dry, wet and semi-washed, do you know?

Dry processed coffee beans

Dry processing coffee beans is a traditional processing method, also known as natural processing or sun processing. This method is mainly suitable for coffee berries grown in dry areas.

First, the ripe coffee cherries are placed in an open field to dry. During this process, farmers will regularly turn and stir the cherries to ensure that they are evenly heated and weathered.

When the fruit is completely dry, the outer skin becomes brittle and easy to peel off. At this time, farmers can use special equipment to separate the outer skin from the coffee bean inside.

Wet processed coffee beans

Wet processing is a relatively new and more complex method that requires a lot of water in the process. It is usually used for coffee cherries grown at high altitudes, during rainy seasons or in humid climates.

First, soon after picking, farmers place the ripe fruit in pools of water for soaking. This process helps soften the outer layer of the fruit, making it easier to separate.

Next, the fruit is sent to the peeling machine to remove the outer skin and flesh. The remaining pectin and coffee beans are placed in the fermentation tank for fermentation. The fermentation process can help remove the pectin remaining on the coffee beans and increase the taste and flavor of the coffee beans.

Finally, after steps such as washing, rinsing and drying, wet-processed coffee beans are available.

Semi-washed coffee beans

Semi-water washing is a treatment method between dry method and wet method. It combines the advantages of both methods and is widely used in certain specific areas.

First, soon after picking, farmers place the ripe fruit in pools of water for a period of time. This step helps soften the outer skin and flesh and makes it easier to separate.

Then, similar to the dry processing method, the soaked fruits are spread out on the drying ground to dry completely. During this process, farmers need to turn and stir the fruits regularly to ensure that they are evenly heated and weathered.

Finally, after peeling, cleaning and drying, semi-washed coffee beans are available.

Summarize

Dry, wet and semi-washed are three common coffee bean processing methods. Each method has its applicable conditions and characteristics. Dry processing is suitable for coffee berries grown in dry areas; wet processing is suitable for coffee berries grown in high altitudes, rainy seasons or humid climates; and semi-washed processing is between the two and is widely used in certain specific areas.

Regardless of the processing method used, the ultimate goal is to obtain high-quality coffee beans and provide consumers with a rich variety of taste and flavor options.