Why "Mold Inhibitors" Are Used in Coffee Beans

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Have you ever heard the term "post-harvest pesticides"? In addition to pesticides used during cultivation, there are cases where pesticides, such as fungicides and insecticides, are directly sprayed on harvested green coffee beans.

We will explain in detail why such chemicals are necessary for conventional mass-produced and mass-distributed coffee beans that are not "organic (JAS certified organic)," and how we can choose safe beans, delving into the hidden aspects of their distribution.

Harsh Ocean Transport: The Reason Fungicides are Used in Conventional Distribution

Many green coffee beans are transported by ship from producing countries near the equator to Japan, taking several months.

The containers in the ship's hold can become hot and humid when crossing the equator, creating a harsh environment where mold is very likely to grow. If mold proliferates during transport, not only will the beans become unsellable, but "mycotoxins," which can harm the brain and internal organs, may also be produced.

For this reason, in the case of inexpensive commercial coffee that is mass-produced, chemicals such as fungicides may be used after harvesting to prevent mold and deterioration during this long-term transport and to maintain quality, at least superficially. It is not uncommon for cheap, mass-distributed beans to have such "costs hidden to maintain low prices."

The Strict Rules of "Organic (JAS Certified Organic)" - No Chemicals Used

On the other hand, organic green coffee beans face very strict legal hurdles.

Beans that have acquired organic JAS certification are not only prohibited from using chemical pesticides during cultivation, but also strictly forbidden from using chemical agents such as fungicides or fumigation treatments during transport from the production site to Japan, and even during customs clearance upon arrival at Japanese ports.

In other words, coffee beans carrying the "organic" label are guaranteed to be completely free from fungicides and other chemicals throughout the entire transport process, from cultivation to their arrival in our hands.

Advanced Quality Control: Preventing Mold Without Relying on Chemicals

So, how do organic and highest-quality coffee beans, which don't use fungicides, survive that harsh ocean transport? Today, excellent technologies and innovations are being introduced to prevent mold without relying on chemical agents.

・Use of special barrier bags (e.g., GrainPro) In addition to conventional, highly breathable jute bags, there is a method of transporting green beans sealed in special inner bags that are extremely airtight and completely impervious to external moisture. This keeps the moisture content of the beans themselves in an ideal state, physically shutting out mold growth.

・Transport in temperature-controlled containers (reefer containers) This involves using special shipping containers where the temperature and humidity inside are constantly managed by a computer. Even when crossing the equator, the inside of the container is kept at a low, room-like temperature, preventing condensation and allowing the beans to reach Japan while maintaining an environment where mold cannot thrive.

Summary: The Reasons We Insist on "Organic" and "Quality Control"

Drinking coffee should be a form of self-care to enhance daily performance. However, if the beans chosen solely for their low price contain residual unwanted chemicals like fungicides, it means you are introducing unnecessary noise into your body.

We are committed to providing organic coffee and thoroughly managing the transportation and storage processes because we have established a system that completely eliminates the need to spray fungicides to prevent mold.

A truly "clean cup," free from the stress of chemical agents and the fear of mycotoxins. For the sake of your precious body, please choose beans with a clear background in their distribution.


Now, let's talk about our premium mold-free coffee.