A recent study highlights the importance of coffee sourcing and preparation in relation to chemical contaminants. The Clean Label Project tested various coffee products and discovered that factors like packaging, roast level, and bean origin significantly influence the presence of harmful substances. Surprisingly, all organic coffee samples contained AMPA, a glyphosate byproduct, which raises serious concerns about the safety of organic labeling.
• The study tested 57 coffee products from 45 brands, focusing on harmful substances like heavy metals and pesticides.
• Organic coffee had 5% more AMPA than conventional coffee, contradicting consumer expectations.
• Dark roast coffee showed lower levels of acrylamide than lighter roasts, while coffee pods had the highest levels of DEHP, a harmful plasticizer.
• African-sourced beans had the lowest toxin levels, making them a safer choice for consumers.
Understanding these findings is crucial for consumers who want to make informed choices about their coffee. With over 2.25 billion cups consumed daily, ensuring safety in coffee production is essential for public health. The study calls for greater transparency and stricter regulations in the industry.
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