Fair Trade Coffee - Gourmet Guide

Fair Trade Coffee Store
Whole Bean Fair Trade Coffee

Fair Trade Coffee Growing
Over half of the world's coffee is produced on small family farms with only a few acres of coffee trees. Fair Trade certification provides a way for these farmers to increase their incomes by helping them organize into cooperatives that link them directly to coffee importers. Fair Trade farmers are guaranteed a premium over the prevailing price paid for coffee on the international market. In addition, Fair Trade improves farmers' economic stability by encouraging importers to extend financial credit to cooperatives and develop long-term trading relationships.

Fair Trade Coffee is part of the Fair Trade movement which was first established in the 1940s and 1950s. In response to falling coffee prices worldwide, Fair Trade certification was established in 1988. Standards for Fair Trade Certification address fair labor conditions, direct trade with producers, community development for Fair Trade farmers, and the Democratic structure of their organizations. A similar certification is administered by the Rainforest Alliance. Rainforest Alliance works with farmers to oversee compliance with their standards for wages, good housing and healthcare, and children's access to education.

Today, due to consumer awareness and demand, many small and large coffee suppliers offer Fair Trade coffee. igourmet believes strongly in supporting sustainable coffee production, both environmentally and socially. We proudly offer Fair Trade and Organic shade grown coffees.