Organic Coffee Beans
Benefits of Organic Coffee
Organic coffee beans are coffee beans that have been produced without the use of pesticides or herbicides. This
is both beneficial to both the producer and the consumer.
However, non-organic coffee is typically higher yielding
because it is not usually shade grown. The definition of certified organic coffee can be extended
to include an emphasis on recycling, composting, soil health,
and protection of the environment. These are important
aspects to sustainability that are both cost effective and
socially responsible. That is why organic fair trade coffee and organic shade grown coffee often go hand in hand.
Certified Organic Coffee Beans
The
most common third party certification group is the Organic
Crop Improvement Association. They charge $350 for
organic coffee certification. Although this is relatively inexpensive
for most farms, some small producers make only $1,000 per
year.
To find an organic coffee supplier or for a list of certified organic coffee retailers, visit the Organic Trade Association.