Organic is a huge part of who we are. Since we started CRU Kafe way back in 2013 we’ve only ever bought organic coffee, and we’re committed to making sure we always will. But why should you be bothered about buying organic? And exactly what difference does it make to the coffee you drink?
CRU Kafe x Soil Association
Since day one, we’ve been working closely with the Soil Association. This charity is the UK’s largest organic certification body, responsible for certifying over 70% of the growing organic market. They work with over 3,500 farms and organic businesses all over the world & is the most recognised and trusted organic symbol in the UK. As a charity, it promotes local purchasing, public education and opposes intensive farming practices.
So, what are the benefits of organic coffee?
Health
Organic standards work hard to make sure that absolutely no nasty chemicals, pesticides or solvents come into contact with our coffee - meaning that you can rest easy in the knowledge that what you’re drinking is free from many of the manufactured chemicals used in non-organic coffee production. Even the fertilisers used by the growers have to meet very high standards to be granted safe by organic standards - and these natural, certified fertilisers not only use less energy, but leave much less of a footprint on the communities that use them.
It’s not just the coffee that is held up to scrutiny either; every aspect of our packaging from our outer boxes to our aluminium capsules is also examined to make sure nothing - absolutely nothing - gets between you and your cup of coffee.
The Environment
Unlike commercial coffee production - what we’d term ‘high yield’ - organic coffee doesn’t condone any intensive farming practices. This makes sure the land that is worked is protected and cared for, and helps combat the part that some forms of farming play in deforestation. In fact, it goes one step further & actually aids the conservation of wildlife, birds & vegetation. Coffee is the second most popular beverage after water & the second top selling product after oil, so if everyone did decide to shop organic, we would do a whole lot of good for the planet.
Our Farmers
Getting organically certified is not easy, but it means that the quality of the coffee produced is a lot higher, and with this internationally recognised standard comes guarantees of better market prices that can be passed on directly to the farmers themselves. To make doubly sure our producers are supported, all our coffee is certified Fairtrade* as well, which guarantees better wages for everyone involved.
*accurate as of 14th May 2019
