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Why Doesn’t Starbucks Sell Organic Coffee?
Organic food has long been touted as a nutritious alternative to conventionally produced goods, and although organic products do utilize fewer chemicals for production and processing than non-organic counterparts, some misconceptions persist regarding their health benefits. For instance, many may believe that coffee beans labeled as organic must be healthier than those grown and harvested using standard practices; though this may be true in general terms there can be other considerations associated with drinking organic coffee such as potential mycotoxin contamination in certain brands of organic coffee beans.
Mycotoxins, naturally produced toxins derived from molds and fungi, can be found in certain varieties of coffee. Mycotoxins have been linked to adverse health impacts ranging from acute poisoning to long-term immune deficiency and even cancer; to minimize your exposure, opt for organic brands with stringent testing procedures in place that detect mycotoxins in their product.
Certified Organic: Products certified organic meet USDA farming standards and are usually required to display the USDA seal on their packaging.
Organic certification from the USDA is considered the highest level available. To become organic certified, farmers must undergo inspection and approval from USDA prior to growing and processing crops; additionally they cannot use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, while soil must remain chemical residue free for three years prior to harvest.
As this process is lengthy and costly, small-scale coffee growers may find it challenging to comply with all its requirements. Furthermore, smaller companies may struggle to compete against more well-known organic brands who can afford the necessary processes and inspections.
Organic certification may not be available for every coffee, but it’s still an excellent way to guarantee high-quality, chemical-free brew and support local coffee farmers and communities around the globe.
Organic coffee offers numerous health advantages, such as reduced chemical exposure and higher antioxidant content, plus its ability to help boost metabolism and energy levels. If you want something special for breakfast every morning, why not give organic coffee a try and help make this world better one cup at a time!