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Does Coffee Have to Be Organic to Be Safe?
Consumers who drink coffee are often confused as to whether organic is truly better, however this depends on your definition of better. If your primary consideration is pesticide-free coffee beans then organic should certainly be your go-to choice; but if soil and farmer conditions matter as much, then searching out both organic and fair trade certifications would be more appropriate.
Organic and fair trade coffee are both vital in providing you with a safe beverage, especially when it comes to safety. For example, in order to become certified organic, farms must undergo tests ensuring they are free of unnatural contaminants, including heavy metals. This ensures the coffee you are enjoying comes from an isolated environment before being roasted, ground (if necessary), packaged and consumed without cross contamination from non-organic products – it also means you know it’s truly organic rather than just being blended together from multiple conventional and organic ingredients.
Organic farms must implement a sustainable crop rotation plan in order to keep their land free from contaminants and artificial fertilizers and pesticides, as well as any use of sewage sludge or genetically modified seeds, are not permitted. Furthermore, this organic method promotes the natural development of beneficial insects, fungus, or organisms to maintain bean health and keep production sustainable.
Coffee is made from the seeds of berries, so it should come as no surprise that their seeds contain trace amounts of chemicals used during their production. While these aren’t harmful in any way, they could negatively impact taste buds and overall health. When purchasing organic coffee beans you know they have been grown without synthetic chemicals making them safer for you and your body.
Organic certification entails stringent quality controls across supply chains. Coffee labeled organic must meet this stringent standard from tree to cup in order to receive the USDA organic seal, giving you confidence in the integrity of your organic beverage.
Environmental certifications such as Bird Friendly or Demeter may also give you assurances that no harmful chemicals were used during cultivation and processing stages; however, their stringency should only be seen as complementary to your organic coffee purchase.
Purchase organic coffee whenever possible and demand it when possible to show support for farmers who prioritize environmental sustainability while enjoying a pure-tasting and safe beverage that’s good for both flavor and health. By joining this movement, you’re helping make improvements and drive change to how the world produces its most beloved beverage.