Heavy rains in Brazil portend a shortage of quality Arabica coffee
In Brazil, which accounts for about 45% of the world's Arabica coffee production, heavy downpours have seriously damaged the crop, writes Bloomberg.
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In June and July, some regions of the country received 250-500% of the usual rainfall for this period. Due to the torrential rains, the coffee harvest had to be postponed. Approximately 20% of the berries were washed off the trees, and those that remained were excessively soaked or infected. As a result, the coffee beans may acquire a stale and moldy taste.
After the surviving crop was finally harvested and began drying, a new wave of heavy rains arrived. Some producers had to restart the drying process, which further deteriorated the quality of the beans.
Problems with the supply of quality Arabica are already affecting the market and prices. Even major chains and producers, including Starbucks, Luigi Lavazza, and Illycaffè, are beginning to experience difficulties in formulating quality coffee blends.
Arabica is the most common type of coffee: it accounts for about 60-70% of global production. Compared to Robusta, Arabica has less caffeine but a more complex flavor, pronounced acidity, and often fruity or floral notes.