Pioneering Organic Cascara from Coffee Waste
Objective
Our goal was to pioneer the sustainable use of coffee cherry fruit, known as Cascara, turning what was once considered waste into a valuable organic product. This initiative sought to generate additional income for coffee farmers and contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing waste from coffee production.
Challenge
The challenge involved persuading coffee farmers to modify their milling processes to accommodate Cascara production. This required investment in new infrastructure amid financial and environmental challenges, alongside ensuring the fruit did not develop mold, common in traditional processing methods.
Solution
We proposed a model that showcased the financial and ecological benefits of Cascara production. Initiatives began with larger farms to demonstrate viability, allowing smaller farmers to later participate and benefit from additional revenue streams by selling both coffee beans and fruit.
Quality Control and Product Development
The project succeeded in bringing to market the first organic, biodynamic, and lab-tested Cascara, maintaining high-quality standards through education and adaptation of existing high-quality coffee farm practices. Collaborations with Coffee Cherry Co., Fina rlanda, and Crophub, among others, were pivotal.
Market Introduction and Consumer Response
Strategic partnerships with industry players like Coffee Cherry Co. and targeted outreach to U.S. distributors laid the groundwork for introducing Cascara. The product has been warmly received, with growing interest from companies looking to innovate within the coffee and tea markets. The product has since gained traction with various brands incorporating Cascara into their offerings, including All Dae, Verve Cascara Tea, Up To Good Energy, Be Goat, and The Other Side of Coffee, which utilizes fresh coffee fruit juice.
Sustainability and Impact
The environmental impact is tied to product adoption and growth. Initial estimates suggest significant potential for CO2 emission reduction and waste minimization, offering a scalable solution for enhancing sustainability within the global coffee industry.
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