What is organic coffee vs regular?

First things first: What is organic coffee?

 

Defining Organic Coffee

Producers grow organic products without using harmful chemicals (such as pesticides) that harm consumers' health, plants, animals, and the environment.

Many certifications worldwide are responsible for verifying that these processes carried out on farms are as stated and comply with specific local and national standards and regulations.

Organic products are Plant, animal, or derivative products produced with natural substances and without pesticides or artificial fertilizers, among other chemicals.

Organic production operates on ecology, health, equity, and precaution principles.

 

Not all organic coffee is specialty coffee, and not all single origin coffee is organic or produced with sustainable processes. We have another article that explains this in more depth.

Brief History of Organic Coffee Production

Organic agriculture originated in England in the 1940s, when signs of using fertilizers and other chemical substances added to the production process already manifested in health.

In the 1960s, due to the increased demand from foreign companies, the production of organic products began in Mexico.

These products were grown in areas with traditional cultivation practices and regions where chemical substances were not used, typically inhabited by indigenous communities with no accessibility to modern resources.

The states of Chiapas and Oaxaca were the first to begin this new type of production, and it has since spread throughout the country.

This market has gained momentum, especially in Europe and the United States, due to the higher incidence of complex diseases such as cancer associated with the quality of foods and the large amount of additives used when industrializing them.

Market Overview

Mexico is the fourth largest producer of organic foods in the world. Approximately one million hectares are allocated exclusively for planting agricultural products.

According to information from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fishing and Food (SAGARPA), Oaxaca, Chiapas, Michoacán, Chihuahua, and Nuevo León are the top five states in terms of area dedicated to agricultural activities.

The first three states combined account for 50% of the total land used.

What are the benefits of Organic Coffee

Studies have found a possible association between coffee and decreased mortality. Coffee may offer some protection against:

• Parkinson's disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Liver disease, including liver cancer
• Heart attack and stroke

Environmental Benefits of Organic Coffee Farming

Organic coffee farming involves growing coffee plants without using synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.

This form of agriculture fosters environmentally friendly, sustainable agricultural methods.

By avoiding hazardous chemicals, organic coffee farmers contribute to maintaining ecosystem health and biodiversity.

Social Benefits for Coffee Farmers and Communities

Organic coffee commands higher pricing on the market due to its perceived quality and sustainable production.

This premium price dramatically impacts their lives by bringing enormous revenues and financial security to coffee growers.

Additionally, farmers can use the money to improve their methods and enhance their general well-being by investing in their education, healthcare, and other areas.

Furthermore, many coffee roasters and coffee brands are changing how they buy their coffees by updating their values, making direct trade, paying farmers fairly, and betting on sustainably produced coffee.

 

Although this is just a tiny percentage of the industry, much work remains to change this.

Remember that organic and sustainably processed coffee actively supports the care of the land and environment where it is produced.

Organic vs. Conventional Coffee

Organic coffee production can be more labor-intensive and expensive than non-organic methods.

Organic Coffee Farming Practices

As millennials ourselves, we want to drink coffee that is both socially and environmentally sustainable.

If we talk about environmental coffee production, the focus often turns to how we can mitigate the impact of climate change through concepts such as agroforestry, reviving natural ecosystems, and managing replenishing soil health on coffee farms.

In general, we can refer to these practices as regenerative agriculture.

Regenerative agriculture is a promising solution that explores new and innovative ways to make coffee production more environmentally friendly.

 

By implementing practices that protect the land, water, and habitats and harnessing solar energy through panels, these methods are not just theoretical; they make a real and significant impact.

They offer farmers and consumers more sustainable options for coffee production, thus creating a brighter and more hopeful future for our planet.

The regenerative coffee farming movement can be a beneficial tool. It raises crucial matters for discussion, such as topsoil health, cover crops, biodiversity, water supply, and its effects on our culture and environment/climate (as a species sharing a planet).

Although having a USDA organic certificate is good for a farmer, we often see cases where they need more resources to cover all the expenses required to get a yearly USDA certificate.

Their practices still comply with the requirements; their resources must be sufficient.

Our commitment extends beyond just drinking coffee. We work directly with small farmers in Mexico, who have gained national recognition for their quality and adoption of sustainable processes.

We assess their practices in a sensory evaluation, ensuring they offer the best.

By supporting them directly, we're not just enjoying great coffee; we're making a tangible difference in their lives and communities.

Conclusion

To sum it up, choosing organic coffee offers a better taste and promotes environmental sustainability and personal health.

By opting for organic coffee, we savor a superior brew, contribute to sustainable agriculture practices, and preserve our planet's resources.

Let's all come together to support sustainable initiatives in different areas, such as coffee, cocoa, and fruits and veggies. If you already have your caffeine stash ready to brew, take a look at our brewing guide if not, check out our sustainably produced coffees now.

Together, we can cultivate a future where we serve coffee that contributes to a healthier planet and community.