Tanzania – SCR 16

If you are looking at Tanzanian Robusta, Screen 16 represents the standard commercial specialty grade. These beans are slightly smaller and more compact than the “Superior” Screen 18.

Origin: Bukoba (Kagera region, near Lake Victoria).
Process: Natural (Sun-dried).
The Profile:
- Body: Thick, syrupy, and heavy.
- Flavor: Dominant toasted malt, dark cocoa, and roasted peanuts. It has a “cereal-like” sweetness that is less aggressive than West African varieties.
- Acidity: None.
- Best Use: High-volume espresso production and “strong” breakfast blends.

The “Screen 16” Advantage

Many production roasters prefer Screen 16 over Screen 18 for two specific reasons:

Roast Evenness: Because the beans are slightly smaller, heat penetrates to the core more quickly. This reduces the risk of having a “raw” or “grassy” center in a fast roast.
Density: Tanzanian beans at Screen 16 are often very dense, meaning they hold onto their sweetness even when pushed into a darker, “Italian” roast profile.

Quick Comparison

Feature	Tanzania Arabica (AB/16)	Tanzania Robusta (SCR 16)
Common Use	Specialty Filter / Pour-over	Espresso Base / “Morning” Blends
Character	Elegant & Fruity	Bold & Nutty
Texture	Silky	Syrupy
Caffeine	Lower	Higher