Acidity is an integral component of coffee’s flavor profile, adding both brightness and complexity. Unfortunately, high acidity levels can be unpleasant for some individuals with sensitive stomachs or managing acid reflux symptoms; thus leading many people to switch to decaffeinated coffee options with reduced acidity levels such as decaf. There are ways you can lower acidity without altering flavors that you enjoy such as changing your brewing method or choosing suitable water.

Decaf coffee acid-free? That depends on a few variables, including which beans were used (arabica beans tend to be less acidic than robusta), how it was decaffeinated, and its roasting level. Darker-roasted coffee has lower acidity than light roasts because decaffeination reduces some of the acidic compounds present. Selecting natural decaffeination methods like Swiss water decaffeination can also help lower acidity levels.

Making cold brew decaf coffee can also help to lower acidity. This brewing method takes much longer, which allows the coffee to steep for longer and extract fewer of those tart-tasting acids. Furthermore, selecting coarsely ground beans and using appropriate water levels can further help lower acidity in your cup of joe – be sure to read our complete guide to crafting delicious cold brew decaf coffee here for all of the details you need!