Coffee beans: from farm to cup

Farmland selection and coffee tree planting

The origin of coffee beans begins in the farmland, and the selection of farmland and the planting of coffee trees are the key to ensuring the output of high-quality coffee beans. First of all, it is crucial to choose a geographical location suitable for growing coffee trees. Generally speaking, high-altitude areas have lower temperatures and more rainfall, which is very beneficial for cultivating high-quality coffee. In addition, soil is also one of the important factors affecting quality. Acidic soil is generally considered to be more suitable for growing coffee trees and is rich in organic matter.

Farming and harvesting

After selecting suitable farmland, the farming process becomes one of the indispensable links to ensure a good harvest and stable quality. Farming includes steps such as loosening the soil, fertilizing, and weeding. Loosening the soil can improve soil aeration and drainage capacity and promote root growth; fertilization provides essential nutrients to coffee trees; weeding prevents weeds from competing for nutrients. After the growth period of the coffee tree, the fruit can be harvested when it is ripe. Generally speaking, hand picking is the best way to ensure the integrity and quality of the fruit.

Fruit handling and coffee bean processing

The picked coffee cherries are processed before they are ready for roasting. First, the skin is removed to expose the yellow or red pulp inside. Then, during the fermentation process, the pulp residue is mixed with water and left for a period of time to remove residual substances and improve the taste. Next, it is cleaned by washing or natural drying to ensure the appropriate moisture content.

Coffee bean sorting and storage

After processing, the coffee beans need to be sorted and stored to ensure that their quality is not compromised. Sorting based on characteristics such as size, shape, color, etc. is one of the common practices. Larger and denser beans are generally considered more advantageous and are used to make high-grade products; while smaller or defective beans are used in low-grade products or blended coffee. After sorting, the coffee beans need to be stored in a dry, ventilated and dark environment to prevent factors such as moisture, oxidation and sunlight from adversely affecting their quality.

Roasting and grinding

After coffee beans are sorted and stored, they are ready for roasting. By controlling the temperature and time, the moisture inside the coffee beans can be evaporated and produce a specific aroma and flavor. Different degrees of roasting will bring different tastes of coffee, from light roasting to dark roasting. After roasting, it is cooled and rested for a suitable time to release carbon dioxide and make the flavor more balanced and stable.

The last step is to grind the processed and roasted coffee beans into powder for people to brew. According to the desired drinking method (such as drip, espresso, etc.), choose the appropriate coarseness for manual or mechanical grinding.

From coffee cup to enjoyment

After a series of processes, coffee beans from farmland to coffee cup can finally be used for brewing and enjoying. Whether it is black coffee, latte or cappuccino, it is inseparable from the careful cultivation and processing from farmland. Behind every cup of fragrant and delicious coffee, there are countless farmers, growers and roasters who work hard.

In short, starting from choosing the right farmland, through farming, harvesting, fruit processing and sorting, and going through the roasting and grinding process, we finally get high-quality coffee beans for people to enjoy. This source is crucial and has a huge impact on the final taste. Therefore, when tasting delicious coffee, please remember to thank those who provide us with such a wonderful drink.