Monsooned coffee

Abstract

Coffee is the largest consumed hot beverage in the world and is the second most traded commodity after crude oil1. Over the last 3 centuries, coffee has shaped economies like no other resource. From indiscrete discussions in cafes that led to giant cultural and political revolutions, to the mass movement of slaves from one continent to another, coffee has had a marked influence on the world2. Coffee is a highly valued commodity and a source of pride and foreign exchange for countries. Farmers work day and night to cultivate the most delectable coffee beans, some of which find their way to the most discerning palates at high premiums. At the same time, the employment of human labour exposes the category to macroeconomic risks3, with international coffee prices often being defined by non-agri factors such as currency fluctuations and speculative interests. Though there are over 100 known species of Coffee, predominantly there are two types Arabica (Coffea Arabica) and Robusta (Coffea Canephora)4. Arabica is generally considered superior for Roast and Ground Coffee preparation than Robusta. Robusta coffee tends to be more acidic and has stronger sensory notes as compared to the delicate/sweet notes of Arabica.