Java Jitters

Photo by: Clod79

Do you know where that morning beverage comes from? How it's made or who prepares it? You may already know that the vast majority of coffee is harvested in Central and South America, Africa, and South Asia. What may not be so obvious is how coffee production affect the landscape and population in those countries.

Originally, coffee was grown under canopies in higher altitude, tropical countries. While not as fast growing as sun-cultivated beans, shade-grown crops taste identical and aid in preserving more of the ecological system. Growing coffee beans in the shade allows for wildlife cover, greater soil sustainability, less need for pesticides, and more crop protection in harsh weather conditions. While not as fast growing, shade-grown coffee has a longer sustainability as it doesn't deplete the soil.

Many smaller farmers continue to grow with traditional methods, but an increasing number of larger corporations are finding a greater yield with sun-cultivation, at the expense of the environment. Look for bags marked "shade-grown"—most are priced competitively with other gourmet brands and can cost even less when purchased in bulk.

Another component to examine when buying coffee is fairly traded products. Without investigating our morning beverage source, we can unknowingly support dismal working conditions and forced child labor. "Fair Trade" labels issued by FLO International certify that all parties involved have been fairly compensated for the product. About 60% of organic coffee available in the U.S. is fairly traded.

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