Effect of processing methods on physicochemical and cup quality of coffee at Jimma, Ethiopia

Abstract

Coffee quality is a complex attribute influenced by a variety of factors, including postharvest processing methods. The goal of this study was to investigate the impact of coffee processing methods on coffee quality (raw, cup, and biochemical makeup) in Jimma, which represents the midland areas. Coffee samples were collected for Jimma agricultural research center and processed with three methods (washed, Semi-washed and dry process). The result indicated that washed coffee beans scored significantly the highest color (13.43) and odor [10] score than the other processing methods. The statistically best raw quality score (35.57 %) was therefore reported for washed coffee in Jimma. Cup quality attributes however were not significantly affected by processing methods. Among chemical composition studied, lipid was significantly affected by processing methods and highest lipid 13.74 and 13.17 g/100g was reported for semi-washed and washed coffee beans respectively. Generally, washed and semi-washed coffee were preferable in terms of bean color and odor quality. Correlations were found among cup quality attributes and chemical compositions. However, further research into the accessibility and economics of coffee processing methods in the area is necessary.