The mystery of coffee bean ripening color: the secret of the tree

The mystery of the color of ripe coffee beans: the secret of the tree

Coffee beans are one of the most common foods in our daily lives, but the different colors they show when they mature are often confusing. What secrets are hidden in this? Let's uncover the mystery centered on the color of mature coffee beans.

1. Coffee trees and fruits

To understand the mystery of the color of ripe coffee beans, you first need to understand the coffee tree and its fruit. The coffee tree is a plant commonly found in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Its fruit is called "coffee cherry." When these cherries ripen, they will show different degrees and colors.

2. Original stage: green, orange and red

In the initial stage, coffee cherries that are not fully mature but have already developed well usually appear green or light yellow. In these green-orange-red cherries, the coffee beans are still unripe and contain high moisture and acidity. Coffee beans picked at this time are often not suitable for making coffee.

3. Intermediate stage: red

Over time, coffee cherries will gradually turn bright red. This is because the sugar inside the fruit begins to accumulate and the water content gradually decreases. At this stage, the coffee beans begin to undergo chemical changes, producing more complex and rich flavor substances.

4. Mature stage: black

When coffee cherries are fully ripe, they appear dark black or dark brown. At this point, there is almost no water inside the fruit and the sugar content is at its highest point. The coffee beans picked at this time have the best quality and taste, and perform well in making rich and mellow coffee.

5. Other color variations

In addition to the common color variations mentioned above, coffee cherries may also show other color variations. For example, some varieties of coffee trees produce yellow or pink cherries. These different colors also represent different levels of ripeness and flavor characteristics.

6. Color and coffee bean quality

Although coffee beans at the mature stage usually appear black, it does not mean that other color stages are necessarily inferior. In fact, in some cases, coffee beans picked at the green-orange-red or red stage can also make high-quality special-tasting coffee.

7. Artificial drying and processing

Regardless of the stage of picking, coffee beans need to be artificially dried and processed during the subsequent processing. This ensures that their moisture content is moderate and they can be better preserved and transported.

8. Presented to us: the beauty of fragrance

Finally, after careful processing and production, it is presented to us in various forms - rich and mellow coffee. Whether it is black, red or other colors of coffee beans, they can bring us a unique and wonderful taste experience.

Conclusion

By understanding the mystery of the color of coffee beans as they mature, we can better understand and appreciate the complex process behind this delicious drink. Every cup of coffee is an art, and the flavor differences brought by different stages and colors are full of exploration and surprise.