NEW PRODUCT / SOLUTION
Flour from husks
APPLICATION SECTOR
Food and beverage
VALORIZED OUTPUT
Coffee husks
TRL
Deploy
CONTEXT
Global
SDG
VALUE CHAIN AREA
Coffee husk flour is a highly nutritious and sustainable ingredient, valued for its rich fiber and protein content, as well as its diverse mineral composition. Compared to conventional flours, it offers enhanced nutritional benefits, making it an appealing option for various food applications. Additionally, it is a source of antioxidants and polyphenols, which are known for their role in supporting immune function, combating oxidative stress, and contributing to overall health and disease prevention.
The flavor and aroma of coffee husk flour vary depending on the coffee variety and drying process. Often described as fruity or floral, it carries subtle notes of dried fruit, berries, and a mild tartness, particularly when brewed as cascara tea. These distinct sensory attributes add versatility to its culinary applications.
Beyond its nutritional and sensory appeal, coffee husk flour supports circular economy initiatives by repurposing agricultural by-products. Rich in residual nutrients such as carbon, phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen, it serves as a valuable resource for regenerative agricultural practices. Its applications range from cascara-based food products to natural flavoring ingredients, reinforcing efforts to minimize waste and promote eco-friendly food innovation.
Sources:
- ICO 2024, Beyond Coffee: Towards a Circular Coffee Economy coffee-development-report-2022-23.pdf
DESCRIPTION
IMPACTS
Successfully incorporating coffee husk flour into food production requires careful attention to food-contact regulations, which vary across different countries. Additionally, due to its hygroscopic nature and unique flow properties, proper storage in low-humidity environments is essential to maintain its quality and prevent spoilage. Using appropriate packaging further ensures its longevity and preserves its nutritional integrity. Moreover, while coffee husk flour holds great potential as a functional ingredient, processing methods must be carefully considered to reduce antinutritional factors.
CHALLENGES AND LIMITS
EXAMPLES OF APPLICATION
Founded in 2012, this company specializes in upcycling coffee cherries into products like coffee flour, which serves as a superfood ingredient for various recipes.
an innovative fuel option Sawaworld- A Uganda-based consultancy with an innovative educational approach to end global poverty by providing local solutions for employment or business skills in a short period of time. Recently the company has launched the ’Ujana project’, focusing on increasing the income of youth in smallholder coffee communities.