Which do you prefer - natural or chemical decaffeinated coffee? Is there really a difference anyway?

Query: "I would like to know what process is used to decafinate the House Blend Kirkland Decaf beans. Water or chemical? Thank you"

My Answer:

In short, I would imagine that is a chemical decaffeination process. Though information on the process used to create Kirkland House Blend Decaff seems relatively scarce, I would venture to guess that, in the absence of the words 'natural' and any reference to HOW the coffee is decaffeinated, it isn't water processed or any other 'natural' method.

If that bothers you, perhaps you might want to look at coffees that specifically tell you how they are decaffeinated. For example, the Starbucks Sumatra Decaffeinated is claims ...

Source: http://www.starbucksstore.com/products/shprodde.asp?SKU=267293 Retrieved on 6/6/2011.

"With a coffee as flavorful as Sumatra, you don’t want to make compromises when it comes to decaffeination.

So when we looked for a natural process that would preserve what’s best about this coffee, the “sparkling water” method of decaffeination won us over. This process is natural and free of chemical solvents. With just CO2 and pure water, it removes caffeine while leaving the coffee’s aroma and flavor beautifully intact."

On my last trip to Costco, I only saw one kind of decaffeinated coffee available. But their US website indicates that there is another brand (I've never seen it) called:
Ruta Maya Organic Decaffeinated Coffee that uses the Swiss Water Process Treatment. Of course, why not give Costco themselves a call. The number is: at http://shop.costco.com/customer-service/contact-us. You should be able to find a store near you that sells an alternate brand.

I hope that 'answers' your question. Do share with me your research! I hope you find what you're looking for.

Best Wishes
Kenneth