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Does Coffee Need to Be Organic?
No matter if you drink coffee to boost productivity, unwind with friends, or simply for its flavor, coffee remains one of the world’s most beloved beverages. More and more consumers are opting for organic varieties as an environmentally-friendly solution; but is that necessary? Is there really any difference between organic and non-organic growing practices, or any better health outcomes associated with one versus another?
Organic farmers don’t use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, resulting in much cleaner beans with superior flavors and richer soil that supports regional ecosystems – all making organic agriculture a more eco-friendly solution to global food production.
People often admire family farms that work with nature rather than against it, rather than commercial farms that clear forests for large-scale commercial farms to clear. Organic farms maintain the natural habitat for wild plant and animal life while naturally fertilizing soil to promote healthier soil that helps support unique ecosystems.
Utilizing organic fertilizers is another way that coffee growers work with nature rather than against it. Manure and compost can be an ideal source of nutrient-rich organic food for their crops; this approach is far healthier and more environmentally-friendly than simply pouring chemical fertilizers onto soil surfaces.
As noted above, coffee beans are typically roasted at around 400 degrees Fahrenheit to remove any pesticides that might be on them during roasting. It should also be noted that there may still be chemicals available that could potentially enter water sources and pose threats to both people and wildlife – therefore it would be wise to avoid products not marked organic when shopping for coffee beans.
There is an array of coffee varieties on the market, making it essential to know exactly what to expect when selecting your brand. While many larger coffee companies sell organic options, be wary that this label doesn’t just serve as marketing hype – in some instances it could simply be marketing hype!
Searching co-ops for organic coffee options is an excellent way to source organic and fair trade products, which often offer a range of both options so that you can select what best meets your needs. They will also ensure their coffee truly qualifies as organic and have stringent guidelines they must abide by to carry the USDA Organic seal – this difficult certification requires every step in production be monitored closely, giving you confidence that the coffee you receive is truly organic and fair trade. If this fails you, or you still can’t find what you want then make contact with local coffee shops directly and inquire about organic offerings – they may have them!