The Ultimate Coffee Glossary

Silverskin

What is Silverskin?

Silverskin is a thin inner-parchment layer that clings to the green coffee bean and lines the crease on the flat side. It becomes chaff and falls off during roasting. It is located between the thicker parchment and the bean. Previously, dry mills would polish coffee to remove the silverskin, but it is now discouraged as it can damage cup quality.
Silverskin is an important component of coffee beans, as it helps to protect the bean during storage and transportation. It is also a source of flavor and aroma compounds that contribute to the overall taste profile of the coffee. In addition, silverskin is a rich source of antioxidants and dietary fiber, which are beneficial for human health. However, during the roasting process, silverskin can produce smoke and contribute to the buildup of chaff in the roasting drum. For this reason, many coffee roasters choose to remove the silverskin from the beans prior to roasting. This can be done using a variety of methods, such as air separation or mechanical polishing, although some methods can also result in the loss of other desirable flavor compounds. Ultimately, the decision of whether to remove silverskin from coffee beans depends on the desired flavor profile, roasting method, and personal preference of the roaster.
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