Many countries now have specifications and certifications for food products that require organic certification.
Personal Health Benefits
Contrary to popular belief, coffee itself is not a health risk. Instead, the risks associated with drinking large amounts of coffee can actually be traced back to chemical and pesticide residues when using inorganic coffee growing methods.
By organically growing coffee, health risks are greatly reduced, simply by eliminating artificial additives. The personal health benefits of organic coffee include:
- Coffee is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that boost the immune system and prevent disease
- Free from pesticides and artificial fertilizers, organic coffee reduces the risk of ingesting harmful chemicals
- Moderate amounts of caffeine can provide a natural energy boost
Environmental and Agricultural Benefits
Organic farming, widely accepted as environmentally friendly, minimizes reliance on synthetic materials added to the soil. Under organic farming standards, use natural fertilizers such as compost and mulch instead of artificial fertilizers. This benefits the coffee crop and soil.
Specifically, organic coffees will benefit from the chemical-free nutrients they can absorb from the soil, greatly enhancing the taste. Often, farmers adopting organic techniques are often closely associated with fair trade practices, which can help coffee producers in developing countries maintain sustainable livelihoods.