Nestlé scientists developing slow-release coffee

By Hal Conick

- Last updated on GMT

Could slow-release coffee change the market?
Could slow-release coffee change the market?

Related tags science Scientific method Caffeine

Scientists at Nestlé are working on a new formula for slow-release coffee, something that could conceivably spread the effects of caffeine out over a longer period of time.

Dr. Laurent Sagalowicz of the Nestlé Research Center, who is also the main author of the scientific publication for slow-release coffee, told BeverageDaily that this research began four years ago and is the first step in this direction.

“It is a promising concept from the technology point of view, however, still a lot of open questions remain concerning next steps,”​ he said.

The science behind the new coffee

Coffee can potentially become more long lasting due to structures called “cubic phases” or “cubosomes” that would ensure a slow release of caffeine instead of the usual quick rush, Sagalowicz said.

“This would hypothetically provide longer effect of caffeine and prolonged alertness to the consumer,”​ he said. “In terms of future development, the publication sets out the potential for application in the pharmaceutical field although we are very much focused on nutritional possibilities.”

Commercial use tough to predict

When asked what kind of commercial use this slow-release coffee could have, Sagalowicz said it’s tough to predict, as research is still in very early stages.​ It’s also hard to predict what kind of impact there would be on the taste or how it would be consumed.

“We are considering what the next steps are now in terms of further research and future product potential,”​ he said. “Hence, we are really not at the point where we could offer people a choice between slow-release or fast-release coffee.”

Sagalowicz said there are still many “open questions” concerning next steps, but he believes this is an extremely promising concept from a technology point of view. 

Related news

Show more

Related products

show more

Life is better with more fizz

Life is better with more fizz

Content provided by CO2Sustain | 12-Mar-2024 | Product Brochure

We make carbonated soft drinks fizzier for longer, so your consumers enjoy the best possible drink experience from their first to very last sip.

Uniting Flavor & Function in Dairy Beverages

Uniting Flavor & Function in Dairy Beverages

Content provided by Virginia Dare Extract Co Inc | 20-Feb-2024 | White Paper

As demand for functional beverages grows, dairy’s innate nutritional benefits and creamy sensory experience make it a compelling choice for consumers.

Replicate full sugar taste.

Replicate full sugar taste.

Content provided by ADM | 24-Oct-2023 | White Paper

Sweetening solutions and flavor technology must work in unison to successfully achieve sugar reduction targets.

Related suppliers

Follow us

Products

View more

Webinars