Louisiana residents, known for their deep love of coffee, are facing a potential upheaval as the FDA considers a ban on decaffeinated coffee due to health concerns. The proposal arises from findings that the decaffeination process, often using Methylene Chloride, leaves behind dangerous chemical traces. This chemical is commonly used in industrial applications such as paint stripping and metal cleaning. While the FDA's intention is to protect consumer health, the ban could affect those who prefer decaf for various reasons. The industry suggests natural, albeit more costly, methods for decaffeination that don't involve harmful chemicals. Consumers looking for safer decaf options can refer to resources like the Clean Label project for guidance on selecting chemical-free decaf coffees.
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