The color of coffee beans varies depending on their stage of processing; raw coffee beans are green, while roasted beans range from light brown to dark brown, and even black.
Here's a breakdown of the color variations:
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Raw (Unroasted) Coffee Beans: These are typically green in color. This is the color of the coffee cherry seed before any processing or roasting has occurred.
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Roasted Coffee Beans: The roasting process is what transforms the green bean into the familiar brown color. The specific shade depends on the roast level:
- Light Roast: These beans are a light brown, often with a slightly tan or cinnamon-like appearance.
- Medium Roast: These beans are a medium brown, a common and balanced color for many coffee types.
- Dark Roast: These beans are a dark brown, sometimes almost black, with an oily surface.
The final color of the roasted bean is determined by the roaster's decision to stop the roasting process at a specific point. Roasting time and temperature are crucial factors in achieving the desired color and flavor profile.
