What is organic coffee?

Organic coffee is coffee that is produced without the aid of chemical substances e.g. man-made fertilisers and pesticides. It also generally avoids the use of irradiation and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). For coffee to be considered organic, it must be grown on a farm that is 100% organic and does not use synthetic fertilisers such as synthetic nitrogen, phosphate and potash. Although it is often more expensive than conventional coffee, there are a variety of health and environmental benefits to switching to organic coffee.

Richer in nutrients than conventional coffee

Organic coffee typically contains more vitamins and minerals as a result of a lack of synthetic chemicals. The farming methods used to cultivate organic coffee also promote healthier, more nutritionally dense soil. Organic coffee contains trace amounts of vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B5, as well as minerals such as potassium and magnesium which can help to support wellbeing. It also naturally contains higher levels of antioxidants, which are vital in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Grown without the use of pesticides

When coffee is grown using pesticides, traces of these pesticides can remain on the beans themselves, leading to the ingestion of potentially harmful chemicals. Pesticides have been found to contribute to issues such as anxiety and cognitive decline, even as a result of low level exposure. Switching to organic coffee helps reduce exposure to these chemicals as it is always grown without the use of pesticides.

Better for farmers than conventional coffee

While organic coffee tends to be more expensive than inorganic coffee, this higher cost means farmers can afford to pay their workers a better wage. Most organic coffee brands are also fairtrade certified, meaning farmers are ensured fair wages and safe working conditions.

In addition, the lack of pesticides used when growing organic coffee prevents the inhalation of pesticides by those working on organic coffee farms.

Environmental benefits

Growing organic coffee tends to be more environmentally sustainable than conventional coffee in several ways. Firstly, by keeping soil nutrient-rich, it reduces the need for synthetic fertilisers in coffee farming. Furthermore, farming organic coffee preserves water quality by helping to prevent runoff into rivers and groundwater. Less carbon is also emitted compared to conventional coffee farming as chemicals that emit greenhouse gases are not used. Organic coffee is also grown in the shade rather than in full sun. This increases biodiversity by creating habitats for plants and animals.