Patent-pending system aids preservation of key coffee aroma compounds
GEA Aroma Recovery System
GEA has developed an innovative system that helps to capture and preserve key aroma compounds that are otherwise commonly lost during coffee processing.
At the heart of great-tasting coffee
Here at GEA we understand that making great-tasting coffee means extracting, containing, and preserving as much of that true coffee aroma as possible, whatever the final coffee product and however you process your beans. Our aroma recovery system is designed to do just that.
The two-fluid nozzle
In a nutshell, the system delivers the coffee extract and a steam flow to a two-fluid nozzle, generating a spray of coffee extract in steam. The spray is then separated into an aroma-rich gas and a stripped coffee extract.
Using a two-fluid nozzle to atomize the coffee extract with steam means that the extract does not need to be preheated to high temperatures before stripping. The length of duration of contact between coffee extract and steam in the spray prior to separation is also short, so the coffee extract isn’t overexposed to high temperatures for long periods. Reducing heat exposure and impact can help to preserve fragile or delicate aroma compounds, and this can result in an even better overall aroma experience.
Efficiency and high yield
Using a two-fluid nozzle to atomize and strip aroma compounds from coffee extracts is a cost- and space-effective solution. Two-fluid nozzles are simple, low-cost units that require only a small footprint, and are relatively low on resource consumption, but provide efficient stripping of key aroma compounds, resulting in a high yield.
The GEA Aroma recovery system in addition comprises an intermediate condenser and distillation column, to further refine and concentrate the aroma compounds before drying. The whole process is economical, results in a less costly drying stage and, we think, results in a great aroma profile.
User-friendly design
The GEA Aroma recovery system has been engineered for automatic start up, operation and shut down, so you can expect a fast, safe and reliable process, without the need for manual intervention. Automated clean-in-place helps to ensure thorough, fast cleaning, with reduced down time, so you can maximize use and get the most out of your investment.
Benefits
- Low heat impact
- Reduced drying stage costs
- Efficient recovery of key aroma compounds
- User-friendly design
- Relatively low resource consumption
- Reduced down time
System features, at a glance
- Cost-effective, two-fluid nozzle
- Small footprint
- Automatic start up, operation and shut down
- Fully automated CIP
- Simple to install, maintain and operate
Downloads
Related Products
GEA MicroWet grinding system
GEA has developed a wet grinding technique for adding Roast and Ground (R&G) coffee to coffee extract. The process preserves the coffee flavor and aromas much more effectively than dry grinding and increases your drying capacity. It’s called MicroWet.
GEA Aroma Management
GEA Aroma management comprises detailed aroma compound analytical services that combine years of GEA experience with the latest GC-MS technology.
CONTEX Extractor
Designed for efficient and scalable extraction of herbal products and coffee
CARINE® Extractor
The GEA CARINE® coffee extractor system has been specifically designed to deliver the highest possible yield while ensuring the preservation of delicate coffee aroma compounds.
GEA Insights
GEA reports profitable growth for 2025 and expects accelerated revenue growth
GEA’s past fiscal year was one of significant growth and further profitability gains. In particular, the technology group substantially increased order intake, with all divisions contributing here. GEA also made progress in all Mission 30 strategic growth areas. In addition, GEA met key interim targets under its climate plan ahead of schedule. Major milestones in fiscal year 2025 were admission to the DAX index, the award of one of the largest contracts in the company’s history, and streamlining of the corporate structure.
How SmartParc is rewriting the rules of food production
Thanks to a new SmartParc manufacturing site, food processors in the U.K. are cutting their running costs and emissions. With GEA heating and cooling technology at its core, this collaborative production model demonstrates how innovation is accelerating the industry’s net-zero ambitions.
The food science playground
“Brewing eggs is like brewing beer.” It’s the kind of comparison that makes you smile – and then it clicks: Something complex suddenly feels simple. Through this personal film, set in the agricultural heartland of the U.S., we explore precision fermentation and the real-world work it takes to turn an idea into food.
