organically certified because of the cost of going through the process. In order to promote the importance of sustainability and ensure this type of farming for the future, supporting those who are organically certified is necessary.
Organic coffee is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations. It is produced without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation. In order to be labeled "organic," a Government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to your local supermarket or restaurant must be certified, too.
For more information on Organic coffee certification, visit www.ocia.org
Source http://www.ams.usda.gov/nop the National Organic Program
Fair Trade Certified coffee is the fastest growing segment of the U.S. specialty coffee market. It guarantees farmers a designated price per pound for their hard work. As coffee is the second most traded commodity in the world after oil, farmers in third world countries often lose money to the whims of the market. Buying Fair Trade certified coffee not only supports those working in third world countries, but also helps ensure a sound future for the specialty coffee industry.
Principal Fair Trade criteria for coffee are:
At these co-ops, income from Fair Trade funds schools and basic medical care for families. It provides opportunities for economic independence and community involvement for women. Cooperatives enable farmers to achieve economies of scale, and they invest a portion of their Fair Trade earnings in community development, coffee quality improvements, and training in organic farming techniques.
For more information on Fair Trade coffee visit www.transfairusa.org
Source: www.transfairusa.org
Organic Coffee
The high standards required of specialty coffee beans usually means a majority of specialty coffees are also organically grown. Many farmers rely on agriculturally sound growing practices. Planting shade trees to help pest control and pruning coffee plants to be at their peak for production and flavor are just two examples. Despite this fact, many farmers in the coffee producing countries are not
