Decaf coffee can be a complex decision to make; its implications span health, flavor and environmental concerns. Luckily, organic decaf coffee options abound; conducting some research can lead to finding your next cup of happiness!

As early as 1905, commercial decaf coffee production first made its debut commercially available – using powerful chemicals similar to paint strippers – which had harmful repercussions for workers handling them and left behind harmful residue that negatively impacted human health and the environment. Since these harsh chemical solvents may pose health hazards to workers handling them as well as leaving an environmental threat, many decaf consumers today prefer natural brands which use water-based processes instead.

Unfortunately, most major coffee manufacturers continue to employ chemical decaffeination processes that involve chemicals like Methylene Chloride and Ethyl Acetate for decaffeinating their products. Although FDA has approved of using these chemicals in coffee decaf, studies have linked them with cancer and can negatively impact human health when consumed. Unfortunately, most coffee manufacturers don’t disclose which decaffeination process they utilize in their products, leading the Clean Label Project to create its Check Your Decaf tool to detect its presence so consumers can avoid buying products that contain Methylene Chloride and avoid buying products containing it.

Fair is fair: the Clean Label Project also found that some brands use carbon dioxide and Swiss Water processes – far safer alternatives to methylene chloride but still potentially worrying for some consumers, particularly those with heart conditions or pregnant women who may drink decaf more often than the general population.

Are you seeking an environmentally responsible option when purchasing their coffee beans? Look for organic labels on their beans; USDA organic regulations mandate eco-friendly farming practices which aim to minimize pollution that enters our ecosystem and water supplies – an action which ultimately benefits all.

Coffee may cause digestive symptoms in sensitive individuals; however, there are ways to limit them. If this is an issue for you, switch to darker roast coffee with less caffeine; alternatively switching to non-dairy milk may also help alleviate some discomfort.

But if you aren’t sensitive, consider choosing an organic decaf that’s made using the Swiss Water method, which allows its inherent flavors to shine rather than being hidden by chemicals. As an added bonus, many brands that produce Swiss Water decaf use sustainable business models and prioritize caring about their community – this coffee can be found at Costco, Walmart and online at Amazon; some even come equipped with compostable pods as well as Fair Trade certification.