Coffee is an enjoyable beverage enjoyed by millions of people around the world, providing multiple health benefits that range from increased metabolism and enhanced memory to protecting biodiversity and sustainable farming practices. But choosing quality organic coffee can help avoid unnecessary chemicals or additives in its formulation – and organic farms prioritize biodiversity, sustainability and community through ecologically and socially responsible farming practices.

The USDA certifies coffee beans as organic when they have been produced according to stringent regulations for their cultivation, roasting and packaging. To qualify as organic coffee, production sites must use soil that has not been exposed to chemicals for three years prior to harvest. Furthermore, producers must adhere to rigorous supply chain management protocols when roasting and packaging their product.

As certified organic coffee isn’t required by the USDA, its organic certification provides an indicator of its purity. Organic certified beverages must meet high environmental sustainability and fair trade standards while farmers cannot use synthetic pesticides or chemicals during bean production for brewing.

As a rule of thumb, whenever possible it is better to choose organic products over conventional options. While they may cost more initially, organic options have fewer chemical residues and are better for the environment compared with their conventional counterparts. Furthermore, organic options often do not contain genetically modified organisms and ionizing radiation which may make an otherwise healthy option harmful.

Although coffee consumption may increase cancer risks, research on this subject is mixed. While some studies have revealed a correlation between esophageal cancer rates and coffee intake and increased rates, other have not. Correlation does not equate with causation which could lead to false conclusions.

To minimize your risks of drinking coffee while keeping a healthy diet in mind is to enjoy moderate quantities, along with cutting back on tobacco, eating high-fiber foods and alcohol or sugary drinks as much as possible. Research suggests that enjoying moderate quantities can also help protect liver disease as well as assist weight loss by increasing metabolic rate.

Stay away from dark roast coffee as dark roasts contain higher concentrations of acrylamide, a known carcinogen. Also avoid adding sugar altogether and try substituting with stevia or raw honey instead for your sweeteners if necessary. Choosing sustainably produced coffee and low-sugar alternatives to reduce overall exposure can make the best cup of joe possible – you just have to follow these simple steps!