Posted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 6:49 pm
It's an interesting question, and one that I'm not comfortable giving a definitive answer to because I would think it would depend in part on the process being used. Freeze-drying (lyophilization) can be done at a high temp (up to 225F) and at a low temp (cryogenic). In the U.S., most companies who say they freeze-dry their products use the high temp method, which is supposed to leave about 10% moisture in the product and which still allows for the growth of bacteria, etc. The product is typically then baked at higher temps to kill off any undesirable microorganisms, etc. Assuming this is done at this particular processing facility by the company, I would tend to think it would be safe. The woman had also been drinking the coffee crystals for a month without any apparent ill effects. If it were me, though, my gut feeling would be that the chance for there to be bacteria still exists, and the rest of that coffee would be in the garbage. And I do wish she would bury that poor little thing and not keep it around to show people.
"You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed." -Antoine de Saint Exupery-
