Processing Procedures
Premium washed arabica coffees are chosen for maximum acidity and flavor. These coffees are then roasted to our specifications by affiliated coffee roasters. The freshly roasted coffee beans are transferred to our Florida plant for processing. Processing of the concentrate consists of several steps:
| 1. | Fresh roasted coffee beans are ground immediately before we begin to process our “ Liquid Roast Coffee" products. |
| 2. | A one-pass extraction, with the infusion of hot water and a filtering process, is used to ensure that only the highest quality of coffee solids is obtained, without extraction of harsh solids or oils. |
| 3. | The coffee solids are then measured to determine the exact amount of soluble solids needed to ensure 100% consistency. |
| 4. | Only the finest arabica mild soluble solids are used in our premier blends to ensure maximum quality. |
| 5. | The aroma infusion is done during the extraction process at a processing temperature that ensures complete colloid suspension of solids, thus preventing any separation or stratification of particles. |
| 6. | After an extensive cool down period, the product is packaged into the "Bag In Box" units with automatic filling equipment, in a sterile environment. |
| 7. | All of our coffee concentrates contain only pure coffee soluble solids. |
| 8. | No artificial flavors or extenders are added. |
| 9. | For selected blends, our aroma add-back is a derivative of coffee essence and oils extracted from the coffee bean by a unique process. |
Basic Processing Procedures
 |
1. | Premium coffee beans are carefully selected, then blended for consistency, and expertly roasted to our precise specifications |
 |
2. | The roasted coffee is ground immediately before the extraction process begins to enhance the aromatics, guarantee maximum freshness, and uniform quality. |
 |
3. | Only purified water is used in the extraction process. Coffee extraction is done in a pressurized system without boiling. |
 |
4. | “LCI’s Liquid Roast" concentrates are then packed in bulk containers. |
 |
5. | ½ Gallon, 1 Gallon, 1 Liter BIB; 5 Gallon Pails, 55 Gallon Drums, and Hand Mix for Institutional customers. |
Shelf Life:
The term "Shelf Life" is often misused and generally misunderstood. “Shelf Life” does not mean the point in time when the product is no longer fit for consumption.
The real “Shelf Life” of any food product is determined to be that point in time when there is any noticeable change in flavor quality, or the integrity of the product.
Our “Shelf Life” tests have shown it will take above five years before the product cannot be used. However, at a five year shelf life there is considerable flavor loss.
We currently recommend, and label most products with a one-year shelf life at room temperature. At the end of one year the product is still safe for consumption, but there will be a slight loss of flavor profile, which increases with time. To ensure the very highest coffee flavor profile and maximum aroma, products are best used within 180 days of production. Production dates are stamped on each BIB. Our products require no refrigeration and do not lose quality when stored under very hot conditions.
Store product at normal room temperature. Do not keep at temperatures below 50ºF for extended periods. Do not refrigerate or freeze product.