Pure Coffee Philosophy: Why We Don’t Flavor Our Coffee

We take pride in keeping our coffee pure and free from artificial flavors. You won’t find us adding oils, or extracts to our beans, either before or after roasting. Some may say we’re missing out by sticking to our guns, but we believe that great coffee doesn’t need additives to shine. Here’s why we’re committed to keeping our coffee clean and natural.

The Artificial Flavoring Process
In the coffee industry, many commercial roasters use flavoring agents to mask the flavor of lower-quality beans or extend the shelf life of old inventory. The process usually involves coating roasted beans with synthetic oils or sprays that contain ingredients like propylene glycol, a solvent also found in products like antifreeze and cosmetics. While considered safe by the FDA in small amounts, its presence in flavored coffee can be off-putting to those looking for a natural product.

Additionally, these synthetic flavors can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), like diacetyl and 2,3-pentanedione, which are linked to respiratory issues for workers who handle them frequently. When beans are artificially flavored, they often carry a thick, oily coating that can damage grinders and clog brewing equipment, leaving behind an unpleasant aftertaste. Burman Coffee, Frontiers.

The Alternative We Choose: Authentic Coffee
Our approach is different. We focus on sourcing high-quality beans that naturally embody rich, complex flavors. Each coffee’s unique taste profile—whether it’s hints of chocolate, fruit, or spices—comes from its origin, processing method, and roasting process, not from additives. Unlike artificially flavored beans, which often overpower natural nuances, our coffee lets you experience flavors as nature intended.

We believe that coffee, like any fine craft, deserves to be appreciated for its authenticity. When you sip our coffee, you’re tasting the result of careful cultivation and roasting—not a lab-engineered blend of chemicals. For those who prefer a touch of extra flavor, we recommend exploring natural options like cinnamon sticks, vanilla beans, or cocoa nibs. These alternatives can complement the coffee without overshadowing its inherent qualities. Coffee with the Queen, Coffee Beanery.

Staying True to Our Mission
In a world where shortcuts are tempting, we’re proud to stick to our mission, vision, and values. We know that being purists may limit our appeal to some, but we’d rather have a smaller circle of like-minded coffee lovers than compromise on quality. Our goal is to bring out the best in every bean, not cover it up. So if you’re with us, raise a cup to pure, unadulterated coffee—crafted with passion and care, just the way it should be. 

Works Cited:

"Exposures and Emissions in Coffee Roasting Facilities and Cafés: Diacetyl, 2,3-Pentanedione, and Other Volatile Organic Compounds." Frontiers in Public Health, www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2021.688003/full. Accessed 13 Oct. 2024.
"Flavored Coffee Beans: 6 Things to Consider." Burman Coffee, burmancoffee.com/flavored-coffee-beans/. Accessed 13 Oct. 2024.
"How is Flavored Coffee Made?" Coffee Beanery, www.coffeebeanery.com/blogs/news/how-is-flavored-coffee-made. Accessed 13 Oct. 2024.
"What is flavored coffee?" Coffee with the Queen, thequeenbean.blog/2020/03/03/what-is-flavored-coffee/. Accessed 13 Oct. 2024.
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