Have you noticed that a pack of Marcilla coffee at Mercadona costs less than €4, while a specialty coffee starts at €9? Here we explain why.
Grain Quality
Supermarket coffee often uses lower quality beans, which often include defects and mix Robusta and Arabica varieties. This coffee is produced in large quantities, prioritizing quantity over quality. In contrast, specialty coffee only uses high quality Arabica beans, hand-selected to ensure they are free of defects. This extra care in selection results in a richer, more complex flavor.
Cultivation and Harvesting
Supermarket coffee is grown on large plantations using machines, allowing for high volumes to be produced at a lower cost. Harvesting does not discriminate between ripe and unripe cherries. In contrast, specialty coffee is grown on small farms and hand-picked, making sure to choose only the ripe cherries. This process is more laborious and expensive, but guarantees better quality.
Roasting Methods
Supermarket coffee is roasted in large batches in a uniform manner, eliminating unwanted flavors but resulting in a flatter or burnt coffee. Specialty coffee, on the other hand, is roasted in small batches, fine-tuning the process to bring out the best flavors in each bean. This artisanal care significantly enhances the taste experience.
Fair Trade and Sustainability
Specialty and fair trade coffee is produced with principles that ensure adequate compensation for farmers and promote sustainable practices. These coffees are purchased directly from producers or through small importers, establishing relationships that benefit local communities. In contrast, supermarket coffee is marketed in large volumes through middlemen who pay low prices to producers, without guaranteeing fair conditions.
Economies of Scale
Large companies that sell supermarket coffee buy and sell huge volumes, which allows them to significantly reduce costs. That's why they can offer lower prices. Specialty coffee, produced in smaller quantities and with great attention to detail at every step, has higher costs.
Summarizing
Choosing specialty coffee is about opting for a superior flavor experience and supporting sustainable and fair practices. While supermarket coffee is cheaper, specialty coffee is worth it for its quality, positive impact on producing communities, and care for the environment. The next time you enjoy a cup of specialty coffee, you'll be participating in something much bigger than just a morning habit.
