Fair Trade Coffee

Despite the increased popularity of coffee shops and chains around the country, coffee producers often do not receive their fair share of the profits. While considerable attention has been devoted to the sweatshop conditions in the garment industry, you may be surprised to know that similar conditions exist in the coffee industry, though they have received far less press. The goal of the Fair Trade coffee movement is to let coffee producers earn a reasonable wage from the product that they produce.

In order for coffee importers to be Fair Trade certified, there are specific requirements that they must meet. For instance, they must pay a minimum price of $1.26 per pound of coffee, as well as provide technical assistance to the producers. With America consuming a large fraction of the world's coffee, the Fair Trade coffee movement ensures that producers from around the world get an equitable portion of the coffee profit.

The Fair Trade Coffee Movement Is Growing
Just as unions protect their members and ensure that they can make a solid living, the Fair Trade movement is about making sure that producers in foreign countries earn a living wage. The Fair Trade movement is a relatively new trend in the coffee industry, but it should become the dominant paradigm in coming years. More than 100 companies are already Fair Trade certified, including Casteel Coffee.

If you're looking for a large selection of Fair Trade coffee product, you'll find it at Casteel Coffee. We offer Fair Trade coffees that are made in the Americas, Indonesia, and Africa. Whether you're an individual consumer or purchasing for your company, you will find a satisfying selection at affordable prices from Casteel Coffee. For more information, send an e-mail to info@casteelcoffee.com.