General information about coffee

Coffee is grown in the tropics, in a zone known as the coffee belt. The main types of coffee are the rich Arabica and the stronger Robusta. In addition to these, around 60 different sub-varieties have been identified, each with its own flavour. This page gives you a closer look at the different bean varieties as well as coffee production and its history.

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History of coffee

Paulig was founded in 1876. The roots of coffee, however, go much further back in history. Based on archaeological excavations, it has been concluded that wild coffee has grown in the present-day Ethiopia for as long as there have been people there.

Arabica or Robusta?

Approximately 60% of the coffee produced worldwide is Arabica and about 40% is Robusta. Arabica has a rich flavour while Robusta’s taste is stronger.

All you need to know about the coffee plant

The coffee plant belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It can grow up to 10 metres high but is cut back to keep it as a 1.5–2-metre-high bush. A fully-grown coffee bush yields 2 to 15 kilos of cherries.

Where does coffee grow?

The best place to grow coffee is between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, which is also known as the coffee belt. Coffee grows especially well in volcanic areas because it requires fertile soil.

Coffee price

The market price of coffee is determined on commodity exchanges. In addition to the market price, the price of a batch is also affected by its quality. Superior quality achieves a better price.

Next up on the Happy Beans' Journey

2. Coffee farmers and coffee farming

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