Do-it-Yourself Decaf.

July 21, 2006 - A California based research firm has developed a special polymer that actively binds to caffeine in solution. According to the firm, when used as a stirring rod the polymer effectively removes up to 70% of the initial caffeine in coffee, thereby allowing consumers to decaffeinate their own coffee.

The patented process developed The Decaf Company makes use of MIP's (molecular imprinted polymers) according to Anna Leone, chief research scientist.

Until now, the only to decaffeinate coffee is by subjecting the beans through a vigorous process of steaming, scrubbing, and chemical stripping - leaving inferior beans behind. Hopefully, the new MIP technology may pave the a new way for decaffeinated drinker to enjoy their cup of Joe without undermining quality.

Links:

http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/jul2006/tc20060720_501134.htm?chan=top+news_top+news

http://www.drinks-business-review.com/article_news.asp?guid=C81D453D-1B50-418B-9114-92720AF97453