Brazil’s coffee industry is raising alarms over the growing presence of “fake coffee” in the local market. As coffee prices soar, some companies are offering powdered products marketed as coffee but are actually made with little to no real coffee beans. These products aim to attract consumers who are struggling with the rising cost of the beverage.
The Brazilian coffee roasters association, ABIC, recently pointed out that some grocery stores are selling these powdered products, which may include coffee waste like peels, leaves, vegetable pulp, and artificial coffee flavoring. ABIC’s executive director, Celirio Inacio da Silva, warned that these products are misleading consumers. “It is a clear attempt to fool consumers,” he said.
Coffee prices in Brazil, the world’s largest coffee producer and second-largest coffee consumer after the U.S., have risen more than 50% in the past three months. This surge is due to global price hikes, driven by weather-related supply shortages in producing countries.
In response to the issue, ABIC has contacted Brazilian health agencies and the Agriculture Ministry to inquire whether these products are being sold legally.
One such product, called “Oficial do Brasil,” is sold in packaging resembling that of traditional roast and ground coffee brands, featuring a picture of a steaming cup of coffee. However, the label states it is a “traditional coffee flavor beverage” and in smaller print, reveals it contains “artificial coffee flavor.”
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