Coffee Lesson - What does “Fair Trade Certified” mean?

Posted by Andrea on 01/17/12 at 01:19 PM

Many of the coffees you’ll find on our site say “Free Trade Certified” on the label, and we advertise them as such.  But what does it mean?  Something about trading freely, of course.  But here is a more official definition: Fair Trade is a movement aimed at helping small farmers around the world by setting minimum product pricing on goods.  This promotes healthier trading environments in developing countries and improves sustainability. (All good things!)

Regarding Fair Trade coffee, this is what the Fair Trade USA Organization says:

“Your rich cup of Fair Trade coffee can help farmers escape poverty. Most small-scale family farmers live in remote locations and lack access to credit, so they are vulnerable to middlemen who offer cash for their coffee at a fraction of its value. Fair Trade guarantees farmers a minimum price, and links farmers directly with importers, creating long-term sustainability. Through Fair Trade, farmers earn better incomes, allowing them to hold on to their land and invest in quality.”  Read more at www.fairtradeusa.org

Now if that hot cup of Joe in your hand doesn’t warm your insides, drinking Fair Trade coffee should!  Here are some of our current favorites:

Winter Seasonal 6-Pack K-Cups

Newman’s Own Special Blend Extra Bold K-Cups

Newman’s Own Special Blend Decaf K-Cups

Sorrento Fair Trade K-Cups

Colombian Fair Trade Select K-Cups

See all of our Fair Trade Certified K-Cup Portion Packs here.