Organic Coffee

While most of us sit down to a hot cup of coffee each morning, few of us realize the consequences of not buying shade grown, organic coffee. Coffee has a major impact on economies around the world and on the environment. Fortunately, if you are a conscientious coffee drinker, there are options available.

What is Organic Coffee?

Organic coffee has been grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or herbicides, which benefits the farmers as well as you, the consumer. Organic farming is more expensive and the cost to be certified organic is relatively cost-prohibitive, when you consider that some small farmers only earn $1,000 per year. When you buy coffee from them you help organic farmers sustain their lifestyle and feed their families.

Non-organic coffees are typically higher yielding crops because they are sun grown varieties of coffee, rather than shade grown. However, their inferior quality and taste are a deterrent to the "modernization" of farm practices. They require the use of chemical pesticides and herbicides, many of which are illegal in the U.S., and are passed along to coffee drinkers everywhere.

If you care about sustainable agriculture, the health of the earth and yourself, demand organic coffee from your retailers. When you ask, write letters, and call stores where you spend your money, they will respond. Be conscientious about the purchase you make and you can create positive change in the world.