Coffee

When buying coffee, most people opt for the cheaper or easier option while disregarding the background and production of the product itself. People often don’t recognize the importance of the long line of supply chains and labor that allows coffee to be a part of our everyday routines. Which coffee products we choose to buy or not buy directly impacts the lives and livelihoods of the people around the world who grow and produce it.

Where is coffee grown?

The largest producer of coffee in the world is Brazil. Most other coffee is grown in Central & South America, Central Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. 

Who grows it?

Approximately 70% of labor in coffee farming is provided by women, even though only 20-30% of coffee farms are owned by women. 

How much are they paid?

The minimum fair trade price is $1.40 per pound. 

How much is it sold for in the US?

Starbucks Fair Trade coffee is sold to consumers for approximately 97 cents an ounce, or more than $75 per pound. 

Which companies in the US use or sell Fair Trade coffee?

Ben and Jerry’s coffee flavor uses Fair Trade coffee. 

Dunkin’ Donuts use 100% Rainforest Alliance and Fair Trade certified coffee beans.

Nespresso is 100% Fair Trade.