Learn about Fairtrade coffee
Published on Dec 04, 2009
What is Fair Trade coffee?
Fairtrade coffee is purchased directly from the growers or farmers for a higher price than standard coffee.
Fair Trade coffee is one of many fairtrade certified products available around the world (tea, cocao, rice, coffee, bananas, …)
The purpose is to promote healthier working conditions and greater economic incentive for producers. Coffee farmers producing certified coffee are required to be part of a coop with other local growers.
The coops determine how the premiums will be spent. Growers are guaranteed a minimum price for the coffee, and if market prices exceed the minimum, they receive a per pound premium.
Fairtrade coffee has become increasingly popular over the last 10 years, and is now offered at most places coffee is sold. Take a look at our Merci! Fairtrade coffee available in beans or ground for cafetieres.
Fairtrade Certification
The Fairtrade Certification label allows farmers and farm workers to escape poverty by providing them the skills and the means to compete in the global market of agriculture products.
Having began in the late 1940’s, certification and labeling was not enacted until 1988. This label assures consumers that strict social, environmental, and economic measures are taken when the production and trade of an agriculture product occurs.
Fair Trade standards require that farmers receive fair wholesale prices for their crops. This ensures that farmers will receive approximately $1.26 per pound of raw coffee beans as opposed to the world market average of $.60.
Farmers who are involved with Fair-Trade receive minimum floor price and an additional premium for certified organic products. In addition to the price standards of Fair Trade labeling there are other principles that must be abided by.
Merci! for supporting and using Fairtrade coffee and other products.
Members of the Speciality Coffee Association of Europe