Tag: coffee

Coffee Prices Soar to 16-Year High

Posted on by Qahwa World

The price of robusta coffee has surged to a record high since 2008 due to concerns about supply shortages.

The threat of water scarcity could limit production in Vietnam, one of the largest exporters.

May contracts on the ICE exchange during Wednesday’s trading on April 3 rose by 4.8%, peaking at $3,838 per tonne.

By the end of April 3, ICE exchange trading closed up 4.1% to $3,812 per tonne. Coffee prices have risen by nearly 24% since the beginning of the year.

Coffee futures reached a new high in London trading due to concerns about shortages, according to Bloomberg.

Unusual heat threatens coffee production in Vietnam, one of the world’s largest exporters of this variety.

This has heightened concerns about a shortage of grains used to produce soluble beverages.

There are concerns about a possible shortage of water for farmers to irrigate coffee trees, which could affect yields next season.

The rally in the coffee market can also be attributed to panic buying by roasters, whose reserves are at a minimum as they have not replenished them in anticipation of lower coffee prices.

Vietnamese coffee production is also affected by farmers switching to other crops such as durian, avocado, and passion fruit.

According to the National Coffee Association, coffee exports may decrease by 20% this season, ending in September, compared to 1.67 million tonnes shipped the year before.

The harvest expected in Vietnam this year is unlikely to help improve supply.

10 Medications Not to Take with Coffee: A Comprehensive Guide

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Consuming coffee alongside certain medications can significantly impact their effectiveness and absorption rates in the bloodstream. Here’s a detailed rundown of 10 types of medications you should avoid combining with coffee:

  1. Thyroid Medications: Studies suggest that pairing coffee with thyroid medications can reduce drug absorption by over 50%, potentially diminishing their effectiveness.
  2. Cold or Allergy Medications: Many cold or allergy remedies contain stimulants like pseudoephedrine. Mixing them with coffee could exacerbate issues such as insomnia and sleep disruption.
  3. Diabetes Medications: For diabetic individuals, adding sugar or milk to coffee might elevate blood sugar levels, affecting the efficacy of their prescribed medication. Furthermore, caffeine intake could worsen diabetic symptoms.
  4. Alzheimer’s Medications: Caffeine can interfere with Alzheimer’s medications by tightening the blood-brain barrier, limiting drug passage to the brain. Additionally, excessive coffee consumption may compromise the protective effects of these medications on neurotransmitters.
  5. Asthma Medications: Combining asthma drugs, which relax airways, with caffeine may heighten side effects like headaches and insomnia. Coffee intake may also hinder medication absorption.
  6. Osteoporosis Medications: Studies reveal that concurrent coffee consumption could reduce the potency of osteoporosis treatments by more than half.
  7. Antidepressants: Coffee intake might impact antidepressant absorption, potentially leading to sleep disturbances and increased heart rate among patients.
  8. Antipsychotic Medications: Coffee consumption may hinder the absorption of antipsychotic drugs, compromising their efficacy in managing conditions like schizophrenia and severe depression.
  9. High Blood Pressure Medications: Doctors advise against drinking coffee alongside blood pressure medication due to potential interference with absorption and increased heart rate, exacerbating hypertension.
  10. Melatonin Supplements: While melatonin aids sleep, coffee’s stimulating effects can counteract its benefits by inhibiting melatonin production, reducing its effectiveness as a sleep aid.

By being aware of these interactions, you can ensure the optimal effectiveness of your medications while enjoying your coffee responsibly.

Specialty Coffee Expo 2024 Introduces Exciting New Features for April Show

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Dubai, April 5, 2024 (qw) – This year’s Specialty Coffee Expo is geared up to showcase its commitment to sustainability amidst mounting pressure on companies to embrace eco-friendly practices. Collaborating with industry leaders like Caravela Coffee, Pacific Foods Barista Series, and Barista Attitude, the expo is unveiling innovative strategies to offset its environmental footprint.

Carrie Gibson, Events Director at Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), announces, “We’re launching the ‘Sustainable Expo’ initiative, channeling financial aid to Latin American coffee farmers for planting native trees. This green endeavor aims to improve soil health, mitigate erosion, and sequester carbon.”

Through agroforestry systems, the expo plans to offset 1600 to 2000 metric tons of CO2 emissions by planting 6000 native trees, benefitting over 150 coffee farms across several countries. In addition to its ‘Sustainable Expo,’ scheduled for April 12-14 in Chicago, the expo is designed to cater to the global coffee community’s diverse needs.

Gibson emphasizes, “Our expo offers not just a vibrant atmosphere but also a platform for business growth and professional development. With features like the Roaster Village and the Best New Product competition, attendees can expect a unique experience tailored to their preferences.”

Introducing two new features, Green Coffee Connect and Retail Buyers Lounge, the expo aims to foster inclusive business relationships and provide a space for retail professionals to network and engage in meaningful discussions.

Furthermore, the expo offers extensive educational opportunities, including lectures and workshops, addressing critical industry topics. Gibson adds, “Education is paramount for success in this industry, and our workshops provide in-depth insights into specific subjects.”

With substantial growth anticipated, the expo remains committed to upholding SCA’s values and mission, ensuring a rewarding experience for every participant.

Gibson, reflecting on her role, expresses pride in contributing to the expo’s success and sustainability initiatives. She concludes, “Each year, seeing the expo come together is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a testament to the collaborative efforts of our dedicated team and the vibrant coffee community we serve.”

Beans of Change: “ROR Coffee Solutions” Celebrates International Women’s Day with Rwandan Farmers

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ROR Coffee Solutions, a locally owned coffee business, kicked off a groovy caffeinated event for International Women’s Day, on Friday, 8th March. The platform was used to announce the significant partnership between ROR Coffee and a Rwandan’s women’s farm. ROR Coffee celebrated this event by graciously hosting Esther Mukangango, a woman farmer from Nyarguru, Rwanda. This remarkable and resilient woman had the chance to express her enthusiasm of being invited to the UAE and experience ROR coffee’s commitment to ethical and sustainable practices.

Esther Mukangango shared her riveting story, by recounting the inspiring journey of 125 women uniting with a common goal to fight poverty by saving and lending money amongst each other. Together, they formed a union called Nyampinga – which translates to “beautiful women in and out.” The women of Nyampinga are recognized for their remarkably high level of cooperative management skills, due to which they were able to collect substantial capital and purchase coffee farms. Their impactful movement earned them global recognition, which led to support from more than three local and international banks to provide these women farmers with working capital for coffee harvesting and processing. Furthermore, with partnership and assistance from non-profit Sustainable Growers, Nyampinga is able to highlight the visibility of women coffee farmers from seed to cup.

In the past, women like Esther had never tasted nor had access to coffee in Rwanda as it was seen as a man’s drink. Esther inspired the audience by expressing pride in not only being able to own coffee farms, but also being able to now export coffee to the USA, Europe and to the Middle East. Attendees at the event were moved as Esther highlighted the fact that she and several other women farmers are now able to solve their primary needs by sending their children to school, paying for health insurance, and contributing to a pension scheme for the elderly.

On the other hand, Esther was quick to spill the beans as she expressed gratitude upon realizing that their diligent efforts were being supported by ROR Coffee. ROR Coffee revealed that a percentage from every product sold will go back to Esther and the Nyampinga cooperative, contributing to a brighter future for them and their communities.

Moreover, ROR enhanced the event by serving a variety of freshly brewed hot coffee imported directly from Esther’s farm in Rwanda for the attendees. They used their efficient electric roasters, which have been implemented to reduce their emissions in line with their sustainability goal of cutting carbon emissions by 20% by 2025. Guests were also treated to an exclusive glimpse of ROR’s collaboration with Frothing Friday’s electric vehicle fleet, utilized for sales, QC and technical purposes – working hand-in-hand to propel them towards their sustainability goals.They also highlighted their fully compostable coffee bags, capsules, and cups across their product portfolio, in a bid to reduce waste.

ROR Coffee’s commitment to fair trade and their partnership with Rwandan women farmers marks a significant milestone in their commitment to support and empower women. The success of their impactful event serves as a beacon, inspiring other companies in the coffee industry to not only adopt similar practices but also contribute to fostering a more fair world for women farmers and cultivating a sustainable environment.

“Coffeedesk” is the master distributor of “Urnex” products in the UAE and the Middle East

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Coffeedesk is a leading provider of coffee accessories and equipment in GCC and Europe. They recently secured the master distribution of Urnex Products in UAE and  Middle East,  a brand known for its innovative products designed to enhance the cleaning of coffee and tea equipment in both cafes and homes.

Coffeedesk is committed to helping coffee lovers worldwide achieve the perfect cup. Recognizing the importance of maintaining clean coffee machines, coffeedesk emphasizes this often overlooked aspect of serving high-quality coffee. A clean machine not only preserves the flavor of the coffee but also ensures the longevity of the equipment.

As a one-stop-shop for coffee solutions, including drinkers, brands, restaurants, cafes, baristas, and cafe concept specialists, coffeedesk consistently strives to offer the best coffee and tea products, equipment, practices, and now, product services. This partnership with Urnex aligns with coffeedesk’s mission to provide the most innovative products and enhance the overall coffee and tea experience.

Saud Al Nuaimi, Founder of coffeedesk GCC, emphasizes the significance of the partnership with Urnex, stating, “Urnex is a renowned brand for their cleaning products, available globally in around 70 countries. With our focus on delivering top-quality coffee and tea equipment to the GCC region, it’s essential that we prioritize cleaning, maintenance, and upkeep.”

He further explains the importance of maintaining clean equipment, noting that residual coffee bits and oils can compromise the flavor and aroma of the coffee. Coffee’s flavor is affected by various factors, including the roast, grind, and filtration, and unclean equipment can result in unpleasant tastes. Urnex products are meticulously crafted by experts in equipment technology, chemistry, and coffee, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness.

Overall, Coffeedesk’s role as the master distributor of Urnex in the UAE and Middle East highlights their commitment to offering customers the finest tools and resources for enhancing their coffee experiences.

Sustainable Coffee Horizons: An Interview with Aaron Marshall, General Manager of ROR Coffee Solutions

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Dubai, April 1, 2024 (QW) :Embarking on a deep exploration into the world of sustainable coffee and innovative leadership, we meet Mr. Aaron Marshall, the General Manager of ROR Coffee Solutions. From his professional journey to the pioneering initiatives of the company, Marshall shares insightful perspectives on ROR’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, and ethical responsibility. Join us as we delve into the impact of ROR Coffee Solutions on the coffee world as a whole.

As the General Manager at ROR Coffee Solutions, could you share some highlights of your professional journey and how you arrived at your current role?

With over a decade of experience in the coffee industry, my inquisitive nature in procurement and supply chain deepened my expertise and passion for the field. The opportunity to learn and grow fueled my excitement for the dynamic coffee world. There’s always something new to learn in the constantly evolving world of coffee, which is what inspired me to delve deeper into coffee and keep my curiosity constantly energized. Coffee for me is more than just a beverage; it’s a world of discovery. The turning point in my career arrived when the owners and I found ourselves sharing a mutual interest, ironically over a cup of coffee, in exploring and growing within the $100 billion dollar coffee industry. Our strategic vision extended beyond establishing ourselves as the leading roastery in the Middle East; our ambition is to emerge as the largest coffee brand on a global scale. The passion to transform the sector, to do things sustainably and ethically, is what brought ROR Coffee Solutions to life back in 2023. That shared strategy and ambition led me to my current role at ROR Coffee Solutions.

You mentioned being a down-to-earth yet imaginative and ambitious person. How do these qualities reflect in your approach to managing and leading teams within ROR Coffee Solutions?

Having a down-to-earth nature and an imaginative ambition are two core styles of how I lead and manage teams at ROR Coffee Solutions. I am always ready to roll up my sleeves and get hands-on when needed due to my “never say no” attitude. My strong belief in this approach encourages teams to create a more collaborative environment and set a tone where team members are not afraid to tackle challenges head-on. Additionally, supporting the professional growth of every team member is a core focus of mine. I understand the importance of continuous learning and development, which is why my hands-on approach allows me to fulfill this commitment by providing the necessary support and resources to ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive in their roles. I believe it is essential for everyone to be informed about the company’s vision. By promoting a culture where everyone is heard, communication is transparent, and keeping everyone informed, I am able to successfully align the goals of the company with that of the team members to create a harmonious working environment. In essence, it boils down to nurturing a team that’s not only productive but also feels a sense of ownership and pride in what we’re building together at ROR Coffee Solutions.

ROR Coffee Solutions is making waves in the GCC as a one-stop-shop for all coffee solutions. What sets the company apart, not just in terms of products but also in its overall business philosophy?

To set ourselves apart in the highly competitive coffee industry and have a significant presence in the GCC, ROR Coffee Solutions is beyond just its products. At ROR Coffee Solutions, our aim is to foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and sustainability as part of our mission to create an impact. By carefully building an after-sales service program, we are able to exceed expectations and provide added value to our customers and stand out. At ROR Coffee Solutions, we want to ensure that every customer experience is nothing short of exceptional, and we achieve it by strongly believing that we are not just a coffee supplier; but a partner committed to excellence going above and beyond to deliver on promises for our customers. In the coffee business, while upholding sustainability, it is important to keep things fresh and constantly innovate in order to stay on top. We recently launched aluminum and compostable capsules along with our office solutions at the World Coffee Dubai 2024 summit, not only displaying our dedication to innovate and staying at the forefront of the industry but also reflecting our unwavering commitment to sustainability. More importantly, our ethical stance sets us apart. As part of our mission, we have committed to entering into fair trade agreements with coffee farms across various regions, including Kenya, Brazil, Costa Rica, Yemen, and Colombia. We’re all about making sure that we support economic stability, ensure farmers get fair pay, and build a positive coffee supply chain.

The company has recently launched the first phase of its sustainability program, aiming to reduce carbon emissions by 20% by 2025. Could you elaborate on the strategies and initiatives being implemented to achieve this ambitious goal?

I am happy to share the exciting details of our sustainability program at ROR Coffee Solutions, geared towards reducing carbon emissions by 20% in 2025. Firstly, we’ve taken a big leap towards environmental responsibility by launching fully compostable packaging for our coffee bags, capsules, and cups. This initiative aims to minimize waste and contribute to a more eco-friendly disposal process. By partnering with Forthing Friday EV, an extraordinary electric car that redefines performance and sustainability, we have strategically transitioned our traditional vehicle fleet to electric cars. This change has been implemented on our sales, QC, and technical fleets, aligning with our commitment to reduce carbon footprints and ensuring a cleaner and greener approach to our operations. Additionally, our most impactful initiative is the adoption of a robust electric coffee machine. This technological marvel not only makes our roasting process energy-efficient but also drastically eliminates emissions, bringing us closer to our goal of a more sustainable process in coffee production. These strategies collectively form the foundation of our sustainability program, reflecting our dedication to environmental stability, energy efficiency, and a greener future for the coffee industry. We’re not just brewing coffee; we’re brewing a sustainable legacy.

ROR Coffee Solutions has embraced an entire fleet of electric vehicles, making it the first coffee company in the UAE to do so. How has this move contributed to the company’s environmental responsibility, and what impact do you foresee within the industry?

The excitement cannot be contained. We are extremely proud of our strategic shift to electric vehicles at ROR Coffee Solutions. This move positions us at the front, being the first-ever coffee company in the UAE to go fully electric. The partnership with Forthing Friday EV has led us to strategically replace our traditional vehicles in the sales, quality control, and technical departments. Forthing Friday EV is an incredible electric car model that excels in both performance and sustainability, aligning with our sustainability goals and helping us gradually reduce our carbon footprint. Not only does this contribute to a cleaner and greener operational approach within our company, but it also sets a notable precedent within the industry and promotes a positive influence in the industry at large. Additionally, our move to electric vehicles inspires other companies in the coffee industry to implement similar eco-friendly practices.

How do you balance the need for efficiency with maintaining high-quality standards in the coffee industry?

Consistency in the coffee industry is the key reason for any roastery to have complete control over their brand reputation, maintain quality, enhance their customer experience, and optimize their operations. At ROR Coffee Solutions, we maintain efficiency while upholding high-quality standards as it is a top-priority for us. Firstly, we have our incredible Quality Control team who play an important role at ROR Coffee Solutions to help maintain high-quality standards. These guys are the backbone of our commitment to excellence. These rock-stars take it upon themselves to regularly visit clients, providing them with invaluable training and support to baristas, at no additional cost. We’re all about empowering our partners with knowledge and skills to produce top-notch quality and maintain consistency, which also streamlines operations for efficiency. Moreover, every single batch of ROR Coffee Solutions that we roast goes through a meticulous tasting process. Our expert head of coffee, personally samples and evaluates each batch to ensure it meets our standards before it leaves our factory. This thorough attention to detail guarantees that only the finest quality coffee reaches our customers. Additionally, with sustainability at the forefront of our operations, we use electric roasters by Stronghold to effectively reduce our carbon emissions, and dedicate ourselves to being more environmentally conscious. With Stronghold roasters, we can roast high-quality coffee in large batches of up to 8 kg per batch. Their machines, equipped with 4 halogen lamps, higher output, refined airflow control, and detailed data logging, enable us to consistently achieve the perfect roast for our coffee beans, ensuring the highest quality for our customers.

How does the company ensure sustainability throughout the entire supply chain, from bean cultivation to the final product?

One of the most important steps that we have taken while establishing ROR Coffee Solutions is entering into a fair trade agreement with coffee farms. A fair trade agreement offers better prices, decent working conditions, and stability to farmers from developing nations and protects them from an unpredictable coffee market. By entering into a Fair Trade Agreement with farms situated in Kenya, Brazil, Costa Rica, Yemen, and Colombia we, at ROR Coffee Solutions, are enabling fair compensation for farmers. Additionally, we are also proud to announce our partnership with a women’s farm from the Nyarguru province of Rwanda. The aim of this partnership is to secure a brighter future for these women and their communities. We do this by not only sourcing coffee beans from them but also proudly giving back a percentage of our sales from each product to support these hardworking women and their families. Moreover, with the assistance of Sustainable Growers, these women farmers are adopting the best agricultural practices to cultivate their coffee beans, promoting ethics and sustainability. Our sustainability practices do not just stop there. We at ROR Coffee Solutions have upped our roasting game by utilizing an electric roaster that is energy-efficient and eliminates carbon emissions, bringing us closer to our goal of a more sustainable process in coffee production. Furthermore, our partnership with Frothing Friday EV is also another prime example of the eco-friendly vibe that we are boasting here at ROR. By strategically swapping out all our traditional vehicles in the sales, quality control, and technical departments for electric ones, we are gradually reducing our carbon footprint. We have also taken a big leap towards environmental responsibility by launching fully compostable packaging for our coffee bags, capsules, and cups. Which aims to minimize waste and contribute to a more eco-friendly disposal process. To sum it up, when you grab a cup of coffee from us, you’re not grabbing a regular cup of joe; you’re supporting farmers, their communities, and the planet all while drinking out of a compostable cup. In short, that one cup of joe that you’re holding has been through a sustainable journey, making you a proud supporter of farmers and our environment when you purchase it from ROR.

How do you believe ROR Coffee Solutions’ focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility is influencing consumer perception and behavior?

As the General Manager of ROR Coffee Solutions, I’m thrilled to share how our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is shaping the way consumers view and interact with our brand. Picture this: with every sip of our coffee, our customers aren’t just indulging in a delicious brew; they’re embarking on a journey towards a better world. When you choose ROR Coffee Solutions, you’re not just buying coffee; you’re joining a movement. It’s like being part of a secret society of coffee lovers who care about more than just a caffeine fix—we’re in it for the greater good! From the moment our beans are sourced ethically to the last drop enjoyed in our compostable cups, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We’re not just brewing coffee; we’re brewing change. And let’s not forget the feel-good factor. With every cup of our coffee, customers can pat themselves on the back for making a difference. It’s like a little high-five to Mother Nature with every sip. So, why settle for a regular cup of joe when you can join the ROR Coffee Solutions revolution? Let’s sip our way to a greener, more sustainable future—one delicious cup at a time.

Are there any collaborative efforts or partnerships ROR Coffee Solutions is engaged in to encourage broader industry-wide impact?

One of our biggest collaborative efforts was the caffeinated event that we had hosted on March 8, 2024, in honor of International Women’s Day at our headquarters in Al Quoz, Dubai, UAE. The aim of the event was to announce the partnership between ROR Coffee Solutions and a Rwandan women’s farm. At the event, we proudly hosted Esther Mukangango, a remarkable and resilient women farmer, who traveled all the way from her province of Nyarguru in Rwanda to share her riveting story with the audience. At this event, Esther Mukangango shared her compelling journey with us. She told us how 125 women came together to form the Nyampinga union, aiming to beat poverty through cooperative savings and lending. Esther explained the profound meaning of the word Nyampinga – which translates to “beautiful women in and out,” and shed light on how their skilled management got them noticed globally. Banks both local and international, stepped in to support their coffee farming efforts. Esther also shared her own story, from a time when women like her couldn’t even access coffee, to now proudly owning it and exporting it to the world. I firmly believe that this partnership is a game-changer for women throughout the coffee industry, while shedding light on the difficult challenges they encounter due to lack of government support in their country. This collaboration helps by sending their children to school, paying for insurance coverage, and contributing to a pension scheme for the elderly, and also on top of that, they will receive a cut from every product that we sell here at ROR Coffee Solutions. It’s a win-win for everyone involved! More on the partnership front, as mentioned previously, we have teamed up with Forthing Friday EV to shift to electric vehicles so that we help reduce our carbon emissions. While this move does align with our sustainability goals and contributes to a cleaner and greener operational approach within our company, it also sets a notable precedent within the industry and promotes a positive influence in the industry at large. Additionally, our move to electric vehicles inspires other companies in the coffee industry to implement similar eco-friendly practices.

How we inadvertently gatekeep specialty coffee from new consumers!

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By: Estella Zuleta Carmona
Head of Coffee and Trainer

Ever wonder why regardless of how much we try to engange with consumers and share all things coffee with customers, friends and even our family somehow specialty coffee consumers doesnt seem to go in a raise? And big chains continue to expand and reach broaders audiences

Perhaps the reason lies in the way we are communicating specialty coffee, a field and expertise that want it or not has a complex nature and that many of us, coffee professionals, want it to be valued and appreciated for its value, worth, and all the deep and hard labour behind it, regardless, we forget that in the same way we appreciate some things and ignore others, we cannot force people to enjoy the same hobbies or pleasures that we do.

We need to make it approachable, simple and easy to enjoy, but how can we achieve this out of an expertise that implies so many variables and complexities?

Maybe, the reason why its so difficult for regular consumers to engage with high quality specialty coffee is the result of us, the professionals constantly giving a greater importance to techniques, brewing styles, equipments and all the buzzing and confusing terms that newcomers barely understand, and that, contrarily, might aswell make them feel not involved, interested or fall for the intimidation of the snobbism that this brings along. Perhaps we are oversharing, overcomplicating the simpleness of drinking and enjoying good quality coffee with unnecessary details and this way gatekeeping the joys of the world of coffee for the enthusiasts and the coffee lovers.

I still remember an anecdote from a post i read sometime ago in a forum: there was a person explaining his mother was visiting him for vacations and was staying at his place. As a coffee professional he had all sort of tools and at first encounter his mother was incredibly surprised with all the equipments and toys in his kitchen.

One morning his mother asked him if he wanted some coffee and as he sat on the living room he could hear his mother doing different tasks, one of them, grinding coffee in his automatic machine but to his realization he forgot he never taught her how to operate it.

His mother started talking from the distance and complimenting him about how amazing was the coffee he had in his shelves, explaining how she ground a full cup of coffee and then filled the basket and pressed the button up to 4 times till she filled the entirety of the cups she was preparing for the both of them.

It was the best coffee she ever had, regardless of preparation, fancy techniques, knowledge or recipes. Just water and coffee.

Sometimes we forget that in the end, coffee is just coffee, and everybody display a different set of preferences and inclination towards specific flavours or sensations aswell as not everyone is capable of sensing and perceiving as many complexities we do in coffee, not even us professionals can perceive the different qualities of coffee at the same level, some of us display greater skills while others have it more complicated.

But something is certain, we need to make it simple, and perhaps, the best way we can approach to simplify the complex is by actually trying to understand it deeply, moving away from the snobbism and trying to enjoy all the different qualities of specialty coffee that origin has to offer us.

The greater we understand about it, the better we will be able to simplify, share and make it approachableWe should probably start with the flavours we can find in coffee, where does flavour originate? What influences flavour?

Understand the different degrees of enjoyable and non-ejoyable flavours.

Last week i held a class consisting on the defects that we can find in green coffee, most of us in the industry know theoretically and in practice how most of these can impart sensations and affect the quality of the coffee we drink. More specifically we spoke about the primary and the secondary groups of defects. The practice consisted of tasting these defects, becoming familiar with them. What are the predominant notes on a coffee presenting partial blacks, sours, insect damage or quakers?

Does any of these defect truly make the cup undesirable? Do we think other consumers could find these cups enjoyable? As the kids of the washed arabica standards we were taught standards when it comes to green quality standards, we were taught about defects and how green coffee should look like in order to present pleasant sensations. But in my personal experience i have encounter coffees that physically look bad, rugged, and sometimes even showcase partial or “pseudo quakers” regardless, sometimes the most ugly coffee is the tastiest on the table.

Sometimes we as professionals are bias and forget most of what we like and think is “correct” in coffee comes from learning standards, training and calibrating our palate with other professionals that, redundantly, were also taught standards on what taste good and what tastes bad.

So, the question that arises is: Are defects truly unplesant or we find them unpleasant because we were taught that way? Chances are, consumers and ours friends will probably not notice or even more, enjoy them.

On another hand, then we also have roasting and how this changes and transform the flavours we can find in our coffee. Overdevelopment? Underdevelopment, Fast roasts? Slow roast? Light, Medium, Dark roast? Colour? Humidity? Weightloss? Caramelisation? Highly complex or chemically simple coffees?

Understanding this can help us comprehend the result in our cups instead of blaming it on the method, the equipment, the extraction or any other variables, we might be capable of assessing and even appreciating the actual potential and quality of what we have in our hands while ignoring all the other factors that could have gone wrong, Just like a non professional or a regular consumer could enjoy a coffee without comprehension of all these peculiarities, they can perceive that the coffee they are drinking simply its better than any others.

Once we hace analysed and understood everything that has happened from seed and all the processes that were applied to the beans until the moment we got them in our cup, once we understood the quality of our green, once we understood all the processes going on during the roasting and how the flavours were modulated. Once we have moved away from our snobbism, judgement and learned preferences, theres only one thing left to do:Sip, share and enjoy.

The value of the specialty coffee market is expected to reach $152.69 billion by 2030

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A recent survey conducted by Brainy Insights indicates that the specialty coffee industry is poised for substantial growth, with its value anticipated to soar to US$152.69 billion by 2030. This projection signifies a robust growth rate of 12.32% throughout the forecast period.

Sandra Moraes, the Specialty Coffee Manager at the Cerrado Coffee Growers’ Cooperative (Expocacer), highlights the burgeoning demand for specialty coffee and the promising prospects it presents for producers. She elaborates on the Essências initiative, tailored to support small and medium-sized coffee growers transitioning into specialty coffee production. The program offers personalized guidance on post-harvest processes, ensuring adherence to quality standards while accommodating the unique characteristics of each crop.

The research further reveals a remarkable surge in the North American specialty coffee market, with an expected annual growth rate of 20% until 2030, positioning it as the world’s fastest-growing market segment.

Expocacer’s Executive President, Simão Pedro de Lima, underscores the significance of this trend by discussing the establishment of a logistics hub in the United States, the largest consumer of their coffee. The majority of the coffee beans shipped to the hub are of specialty grade, reflecting the company’s commitment to capitalizing on the burgeoning demand for high-quality coffee. Initial plans entail the delivery of one container per week, each containing approximately 320 bags of 60-kilograms of coffee. This endeavor aims to invigorate both the economy and the consumption of specialty coffees, which continues to experience upward momentum.

The inauguration of the hub is anticipated to yield substantial results, with an expected increase in North American market sales by 10 to 15% within the first year alone. Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation data indicates a steady annual growth rate of 12% in global consumption of Brazilian specialty coffee in recent years.

Pedro de Lima emphasizes the evolving consumer preferences, emphasizing the importance of transparency and sustainability in coffee production. He underscores Expocacer’s commitment to meeting these demands, with the hub facilitating improved traceability and showcasing the stories behind each cup of coffee.

Coffee Cascara: Ancient Yemeni Heritage Reshaping Coffee Culture

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Recently, cascara coffee has been gaining increasing attention, especially in European and American countries, where its origins, benefits, and preparation methods are being explored. Although some claims attribute the invention of cascara coffee to specific countries or baristas, the truth reveals a completely different story.

Cascara coffee is nothing but coffee cherry husks, an ancient innovation dating back thousands of years to Yemen, where Yemenis have used it and continue to trade it in local markets to this day. Coffee cherry husks have also been used in some coffee-producing countries like Ethiopia and Bolivia.

It can be said that coffee cherry husks are an integral part of Yemenis’ lives, as it is considered the favorite drink for various occasions. Yemenis used coffee cherry husks to prepare their daily coffee, while they used coffee beans for morning coffee only.

In the past, Yemenis would separate coffee cherry husks and consume them locally in the production of the finest coffee varieties, exporting coffee beans to the world. Today, coffee cherry husks can be found in various markets in Yemen, where traders compete to sell them, and their quality varies depending on their types.

Cascara coffee is distinguished by its enchanting preparation method and unique taste, where coffee cherry husks are gently boiled and ginger or cinnamon is added to enhance the flavor, and the drink is sweetened with sugar or consumed without it.

Yemenis discovered the benefits of coffee cherry husks since ancient times. It has been and still is used as a preferred product for women during the first month after childbirth. It was also used by farmers in Yemen before heading to their farms, where it helped them face the scarcity of drinking water in the farms where they worked for long periods under the hot sun. Coffee cherry husks would sustain them, reduce thirst, and the need for water.

Additionally, it is believed that coffee cherry husks help in fat loss, improve digestion, and strengthen the immune system.

Although cascara drink is considered new in American and European markets, it has been a staple drink in Yemen, Ethiopia, and Bolivia for many centuries. Recently, coffee producers have started using coffee cherry husks to produce this unique drink, which can be served hot or cold.

Certainly, cascara or coffee cherry husk drink revives the traditions of authentic Yemeni coffee and offers coffee lovers an unforgettable experience.

Cascara coffee carries with it a rich history and culture, blending its unique flavor with the authentic Yemeni coffee traditions to provide an exceptional experience for coffee lovers around the world.

With the increasing interest in cascara coffee and its preference by coffee lovers, we can expect to see more traders and baristas adopting this unique drink and offering it on their menus, making it an integral part of the diverse global coffee culture.

Erna Knutsen: The Unsung Heroine of Specialty Coffee

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Atoni Lucien I name her the mother of specialty coffee.

Our lives, all of them, are lived in versions.

I have a version of my life, my parents have another, my siblings another, and for every person I count as a friend or acquaintance, there are yet more versions of my life.

This is not news to anyone.

Famous people famously have many biographies written about them, many different versions of who they were and what they did or didn’t do.

Erna Knutsen was not a famous person, generally. She was a famous person, specifically.

The regular world, the world that is not engrossed and consumed by, obsessed and beset by coffee, that world may not know who Erna Knutsen was.

The coffee world—and not just the specialty coffee world—knows who Erna Knutsen was, though we may not agree on any one version of her story. But I think we might all agree, or most of us, on a version of the person.

She was generous, if not to a fault, then beyond normal, with her time, knowledge, and understanding.

For years before the Specialty Coffee Association of America (now the SCA) hired its first professional staff person, Erna was the unofficial spokesperson for the industry, speaking to reporters about the new fad known as specialty coffee.

Perhaps because her story can be understood as something of an underdog story, she loved to see people succeed against the expectations if not the odds; and while she was not at all shy of the spotlight, she was likely to drag someone else into the spotlight with her to share it.

She had a guffaw that bordered on a cackle and yet was thoroughly charming because it was so genuine, and often surprising, because if anyone could find humor in unexpected places, it was Erna Knutsen.

“During the discussion after one cupping session, Erna had scored a particular sample much higher than the rest of the jury, so Paul asked her to explain what she liked so much about that coffee.

She put on her reading glasses, perused her cupping sheet for a few seconds, then looked up and replied, ‘Oh… I’m sleeping with the farmer!’” -career coffee professional Stephen Vick, talking about the Cup of Excellence jury in Nicaragua, 2006 .

Erna died in June 2018. At 96, she was well past the age when we ask what it was that caused her death. Enough was enough. She had already lived more than one life by any measure and for those of us who claim coffee as a living, it was her second life that meant the most, her coffee life.

Erna’s father, Edwin, died just three months before his 100th birthday.

Long life was in her blood, is one way to put it. Another way would be to say that long life was in her spirit, and her spirit was needed to launch an industry.

To give away the ending, that is what Erna Knutsen did.

 

By:Atoni Lucien (Lucio) Ngeh

International Specialty Coffee and Roastry Manager at SADDLE CAFE and Feels Juice Bar. Specialty Coffee Consultant

Medina Qahwa: Crafting Coffee with a Human Touch

Posted on by Qahwa World

I first laid eyes on her at the World of coffee Dubai 2024. Despite her bustling pace through the exhibition halls, I couldn’t seize the opportunity to converse with her. Fortunately, my daughter struck up a conversation and obtained her contact details. Our inaugural encounter unfolded post-exhibition at ALSercal Avenue, where we exchanged dialogue over a steaming cup of matcha tea.

Unfamiliar with Medina Ilyas, the name of her coffee enterprise, “Medina Coffee,” intrigued me. “Who are you?” I inquired. “I’m a woman from Kazakhstan who married an Omani man and relocated to Oman,” she replied. Following the eruption of conflict in Yemen, a neighboring nation to Oman, I received inquiries from acquaintances about the situation there. Unaware of the circumstances, I was enlightened by their accounts of the war’s dire toll on children, some succumbing to starvation. This prompted me to contemplate ways to extend aid. Upon researching Yemen, I unearthed its pivotal role in coffee’s history, igniting within me a desire to support its populace through coffee cultivation and commerce.

Medina initiated a humanitarian forum in Muscat, convening women to strategize aid efforts for Yemen. We amassed considerable funds and dispatched them promptly. This initiative sparked the inception of a commercial endeavor aimed at providing sustainable assistance – thus, “Medina Coffee” came into being. It represents not just a business venture but a humanitarian endeavor.

Embarking on a journey across the Arabian Peninsula, Medina delved into the realm of coffee, amassing over 700 Arab coffee recipes, 10 of which were published in a tome titled “The Art of Arab Coffee” In this opus, Medina Elias, a coffee aficionado and founder of Medina Coffee Company, delves into the opulent cultural heritage of authentic Arab coffee.

The cultivation, roasting, and preparation of Arab coffee were originally pioneered and perfected in the Arabian Peninsula. Arab coffee transcends mere refreshment; it embodies a cultural ethos and serves as a cornerstone of Middle Eastern hospitality. With roots tracing back centuries in the Middle East, its traditions have endured across generations.

Medina divulges her secrets of coffee preparation, featuring unique recipes incorporating cardamom, frankincense, or saffron, resulting in exquisitely rich and flavorful Arab coffee. “The Art of Arab Coffee” encompasses a succinct history of Arab coffee, offering insights into Arab culture and hospitality, alongside key revelations about the world of Arab coffee and its profound health benefits.

Enriched with captivating anecdotes, the book unveils the origins of coffee, from an Ethiopian goatherd named Kaldi to Sufi monks in Yemen who imbibed it to maintain wakefulness during nocturnal meditations. Presently, Medina endeavors to inaugurate her inaugural coffee shop in Dubai and expand her commercial footprint across the UAE and beyond.

Opening of Bacha Coffee Café in Qatar at Villaggio Mall

Posted on by Qahwa World

The legendary coffee brand “Bacha Coffee,” founded in Marrakech in 1910, launched its latest destination in Doha at Villaggio Mall. Exuding quality and heritage, Bacha Café at Villaggio Mall invites guests to explore the wonders of 100% Arabica with the full coffee shop experience and the unique concept of Bacha Coffee’s gourmet ready-made meals, all in one enchanting place spanning 250 square meters. With 30 seats and over 200 types of coffee to explore, guests will be spoiled for choice with beans from 35 countries across the globe.

Bacha Coffee brings to Villaggio Mall a heritage of impeccable service, attention to detail, and hands-on expertise through its interior concept seamlessly blending with the mall’s decor, inviting guests to appreciate the aromatic wonders of each cup alongside a rich assortment of pastries. In a luxurious manner, Bacha Café’s menu caters to all tastes and preferences, highlighting a tempting selection of coffee varieties, iced desserts, and more, made from the finest ingredients.

Step into the Bacha Coffee boutique and experience a transformation that takes you back in time. Rows upon rows of vibrantly colored coffee tins filled with beans from around the world evoke a sense of nostalgia, while the space resonates with a symphony of sounds. Amidst this ambiance, the enticing aroma of freshly ground Arabica beans casts its spell, awakening your senses to the magic within each cup.

“Bacha Coffee is the product of a rich heritage, a brand that has matured over decades since 1910. Our latest destination will ignite the imagination of our guests in the same way coffee transports us to distant destinations. We’ve brought together the old and the new,” says Taha Bouqdeb, President and CEO of Bacha Coffee. “In one experience, we pay homage to the past and invent the future, where 100% Arabica coffee takes center stage in this theater of life. All senses come into play here, and our coffee is the star.”

Bacha Coffee Company offers an arsenal of Arabica coffee through single-origin, well-blended, premium flavored, and naturally decaffeinated varieties, with over 200 carefully selected types grown and handpicked from 35 countries across Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Asia. Any of these can be purchased by weight, then expertly ground to order by the company’s coffee experts to a size calibrated to suit any chosen brewing method, and packed into a variety of purpose-designed coffee tins.

Guests can also browse through any of the thirty different coffee bag gift boxes – available in individually wrapped single bags containing 12 or 25 sachets, packed into beautifully designed Bacha Coffee bag gift boxes as a treat for themselves or as a perfect gift. Consider the Grand Moka Mattari single-origin coffee from Yemen, a rare and rich crop that entices with aromas of apricot, dark chocolate, and dates with hints of caramel and spices. Alternatively, one can quickly acquaint themselves with the world of Bacha Coffee through where one can explore coffee from around the world through a variety of 10 blends.

Indulge in a sensory coffee tasting experience by choosing from the gourmet products that can all be bundled into a basket to recreate the Bacha Coffee experience at home. With purposeful function and timeless style, the distinctive golden-colored Bacha Coffee pot has been designed to deliver the perfect service for luxurious coffee, with double walls to protect hands from the heat of the served beverages. Express your sincerity by simply enjoying coffee with a basket of biscuits or caramels or chocolate-covered coffee beans alongside other coffee essentials, accompanied by a note card and a free and encouraging gift wrap.

Upon leaving the store, visitors have the delightful opportunity to carry a cup or two of coffee with them, ensuring they stay energized throughout the day. Their journey culminates at the ready-made meal table, where they can choose from over 200 types of coffee prepared to order either hot or iced, served alongside swirled Chantilly cream of vanilla beans and raw sugar sticks or reusable glass straws. Elevate the experience further by selecting from a variety of unique stuffed croissants, featuring flavors such as coffee chocolate or kaya, perfect with any type of coffee. Experience the pinnacle of tradition and innovation as you immerse yourself in the latest chapter of the Bacha Coffee journey.

Complete your day with a legendary coffee moment, only at Bacha Café in Villaggio Mall. For more information on various ways to enjoy coffee, visit BachaCoffee.com/Coffee, a treasure trove of guidance and insightful notes on coffee cultures around the world in Stories. No royalties are due if Bacha Coffee is mentioned. All image rights are owned by the company as a source. Additional images are available upon request.

Bacha Coffee was founded in Marrakech, Morocco, in 1910, in the stunning Dar el Bacha Palace, where the greatest cultural and political minds of the century gathered around ornate vessels of fresh Arabica coffee. The original Marrakech location reopened in 2019, and its first international location was launched in Singapore the same year. With unique and exclusive coffee chambers, boutiques, coffee bars, travel concepts, and ready-made meals, Bacha Coffee has since expanded its clientele significantly across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Today, BachaCoffee.com serves over 40 countries, including online, where Bacha Coffee is renowned for its legendary coffee gifts and accessories made from 100% Arabica coffee, as well as the Bacha Coffee concept of international distribution and wholesale for professionals.