California legislators are considering a new bill (AB2066) that would ban the production of decaffeinated coffee using methylene chloride, a chemical deemed a probable carcinogen by the EPA and the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The chemical is commonly used in the European Method, the prevalent decaf coffee production process, but has been found in trace amounts in the final product. The proposed legislation would enforce a switch to alternative decaffeination methods or impose a $10,000 fine on manufacturers. Coffee industry representatives argue that the ban would defy scientific evidence and harm public health, as no studies have directly linked decaffeinated coffee to negative health impacts. If passed, the ban could lead to a shortage and price increase in decaf coffee in California, where the majority is imported from Germany.
You can also read Lux Cafe Club's article on decaf coffee here.
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