Why a Cup of Coffee Is So Expensive: Breaking Down the Costs
Coffee lovers often wonder why a cup of their favorite brew can be pricey. The truth is, a simple cup of coffee involves numerous stages and costs before reaching your hands. Let's explore these factors and calculate the average price per cup. Coffee Farming and Harvesting The journey begins on coffee farms, primarily located in tropical regions like South America, Africa, and Asia. Coffee farming is labor-intensive and involves several processes such as planting, tending, and picking the cherries. Ethical and fair trade practices, which ensure farmers are paid fairly, add to the costs. On average, about 20-25% of the total cost comes from this stage. Processing and Exporting Once harvested, the cherries undergo processing, which includes drying, milling, and sorting. This step ensures the beans are prepared for roasting. The beans are then exported, often involving international logistics and tariffs. This stage contributes approximately 10-15% to the total cost. Roasting Roasting...