Certified Organic Coffee Guide

Certified Organic Coffee Guide

by Lauren Chamberlain | October 03, 2023

What is Certified Organic Coffee?
Coffee beans with an organic coffee certification have not been grown with a chemical fertilizer or pesticide and were kept away from non-organic coffee beans during processing.


What Does Organic Certification Mean for Roasters?
A USDA Certified Organic label also means a coffee’s roasting machine either doesn’t roast non-organic coffee, or goes through intense cleaning before and after roasting non-organic coffee beans.


Organic Farming and Sustainability
Proponents of organic farming generally believe it to be better for maintaining healthy soils. Growing organic coffee can lead to better coffee plants in the short term and healthier farms in the long term, not to mention lowered risk of harmful chemicals from a pesticide or fertilizer affecting the environment around the coffee farm.


Switching to organic production can, at least in the short term, reduce yields for growing coffee, which can be a challenge to a farm’s economic sustainability. It’s important to remember then there isn’t just one type of organic farming, and one type of non-organic farming, so judging overall sustainability for an organic product is much more complex than having an organic label or no label.


The Importance of Organic Agriculture
While organic coffees have not been coated with synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides, the concern isn’t so much that those chemicals will make their way into a coffee lover’s morning drink. At temperatures above 450 degrees Fahrenheit, the roasting process most likely burns off any residual chemicals used when growing a coffee plant. The real question is what these harmful chemicals could do to the environment and communities where they are sprayed.


A Few Considerations for Coffee Lovers
Buying only certified organic coffee is certainly one of the ways a coffee lover can choose to shop with their values in mind. It should be noted, though, that organic production and certification cost a significant amount of money, so not every coffee farmer sees it as a wise investment to convert to an organic farm. And there are many farms that, though they follow practices that we understand as organic agriculture, don’t see the need to spend money on an organic certification for their coffee farm.

FAQS

What does it mean for coffee to be certified organic?
  • Certified organic coffee is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. It follows strict guidelines set by organic certification agencies to ensure environmentally friendly and sustainable farming practices.
    Why should I choose certified organic coffee?
    • Certified organic coffee not only benefits the environment but also your health. By avoiding harmful chemicals, organic coffee offers a purer, more natural taste while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
      Are there any health benefits to drinking certified organic coffee?
      • While more research is needed, some studies suggest that organic coffee may contain higher levels of antioxidants and beneficial compounds compared to conventionally grown coffee. Additionally, choosing organic helps reduce your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
        Is all organic coffee the same?
        • No, not all organic coffee is the same. Different regions, altitudes, and processing methods can impact the flavor profile of organic coffee. That's why it's essential to explore a variety of organic coffees to find your favorites.
          How can I ensure that the coffee I buy is truly organic?
          • Look for certifications from reputable organic certifying agencies, such as USDA Organic or Fair Trade. Additionally, purchasing from trusted sources like Trade Coffee ensures that your coffee meets rigorous organic standards and supports sustainable farming practices.


          Enhance Your Home Coffee Brewing Experience with Trade
          Looking to elevate your home coffee brewing experience? Look no further than a Trade subscription. Our mission is simple: to connect coffee lovers with the finest beans from top roasters across the country. With our coffee subscriptions, you can discover new flavors, explore different roasts, and ensure a fresh supply of certified organic coffee is delivered straight to your door.

          How It Works:
          Great coffee starts with quality beans. That's why we work closely with over 400 roasters to curate a diverse selection of coffees tailored to your taste preferences. Simply take our quiz to share your flavor preferences and brewing habits, and we'll match you with the perfect coffees to suit your palate.

          About Us:
          Founded by passionate coffee enthusiasts, Trade aims to make specialty coffee more accessible to everyone. We believe in transparency, sustainability, and supporting local communities. By partnering with small-batch roasters, we ensure that each cup of coffee not only tastes great but also makes a positive impact.

          Subscribe Today:
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