First Regenerative Organic Certified coffee hits the U.S. market

The coffee industry has joined the regenerative agriculture movement—the first Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) coffee hit U.S. shelves recently. Three coffee producers in Nicaragua and one in Sierra Leone, the first operations to be ROC certified, provide beans for four California roasters: Equator Coffees, Heirloom Coffee Roasters, Canyon Coffee and Groundwork Coffee.

“ROC is not intended to replace NOP, but to set a new standard for what’s possible in our food and farming systems by adding additional criteria for soil health, animal welfare, and social fairness,” said Alyssa Pace of ROA.

Starting with pilot programs in 2019, ROC has been granted to over 140 crop types.

Elizabeth Whitlow, ROA executive director, noted that many watered-down certifications exist. “Meaningful certs are based on rigorous standards and solid processes. They are often the best way for a farm to convey these values to the shelf and … the best, most cost-effective marketing.”

ROC certification is held by 86 farms, 35 brands hold licenses, and over 90 countries participate.

“Ultimately, the goal is to build a highly valued supply chain for regenerative organic products,” said Whitlow.

Source: Daily Coffee News

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https://dailycoffeenews.com/2022/08/30/first-regenerative-organic-certified-coffee-hits-us-market/

Organic & Non-GMO Insights October 2022