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Does Organic Coffee Have Heavy Metals?
Coffee is a beloved morning ritual for many. Not only is it an excellent source of antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and certain cancers, but organically grown coffee differs significantly as it doesn’t use chemical pesticides or fertilizers – many coffee enthusiasts opt for organic options both because of the superior flavor they bring as well as to support farmers who don’t rely on synthetic chemicals in their crops.
Scientists at the University of Woreda in Ethiopia recently conducted research that demonstrated organically grown coffee had lower concentrations of toxic heavy metals compared to conventionally farmed beans. The scientists collected soil and coffee samples from two transitional organic farms for testing using atomic absorption spectrometry to measure trace metal levels both within their beans as well as soil samples.
Scientists discovered that metal concentrations in transitional organic farms were significantly lower than natural soils; however, two organic coffee farms contained appreciable levels of Ni, Cu and Zn that may have resulted from using organic residues as fertilizer.
Organic coffee does not use synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers, meaning it doesn’t contain harmful heavy metals. Organic farming also helps protect the environment by preventing runoff that pollutes nearby waterways and soil, and by providing habitats for local wildlife (birds, insects) instead of forcing them out with human-made chemicals.
Another advantage of organic growing methods is their ability to prevent nutrient deficiencies in plants. When farmers use pesticides and chemical fertilizers on coffee beans, their nutrients can easily wash away with rainwater; moreover, those same chemicals seep into groundwater supplies depriving soil of essential minerals that promote plant health and flavorful coffee beans. Organic cultivation ensures all of its essential nutrient requirements are fulfilled for proper growth resulting in delicious coffee flavors!
Organic coffee production not only benefits the environment and plants, but it can also bring great rewards to its producers. With its higher price point and use of natural materials like soil for production, organic farmers can earn better livings that provide more stable income for themselves and their communities. Furthermore, not having to use artificial chemicals for plant treatment protects farmers’ health as exposure to hazardous substances is reduced or eliminated altogether.
At times it can be easy to forget that what we consume has an immediate effect on the world around us. Even making one small change can make a noticeable difference in people’s lives – so next time you visit a grocery store consider purchasing organically grown coffee and supporting farmers who do not use chemical pesticides; just this small gesture could give you greater peace of mind knowing you are helping promote a healthier and sustainable lifestyle for others.