Kopi luwak: Luxury brew or ethical dilemma?
Kopi luwak, known as one of the world's most expensive and exclusive coffees, is a symbol of luxury among coffee enthusiasts. However, its production method raises considerable controversy. Is the unique taste of this coffee genuinely worth the price and the emotions it evokes? Learn more about kopi luwak – the coffee that divides coffee lovers worldwide.
Kopi luwak is coffee originating from Southeast Asia, primarily Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. It gained fame due to its unusual production process: coffee beans are eaten by civets (small carnivorous mammals) and then excreted in almost unchanged form. This fermentation process in the animal's digestive system gives the coffee a unique taste and aroma appreciated by connoisseurs worldwide.
How is kopi luwak made?
- Natural process: Civets, or palm civets, select only the ripest and best coffee cherries. After consuming them, the pulp is digested, and the beans pass through the animal's digestive system, undergoing an enzymatic fermentation process.
- Collecting the beans: People collect the beans excreted by civets, thoroughly clean them, and dry them. They are then roasted, which enhances their unique flavour and aroma.
- Final product: The resulting coffee has a mild, low-acidity flavour with notes of chocolate and caramel, making it highly esteemed among coffee enthusiasts.
Controversies surrounding kopi luwak
Kopi luwak, although often seen as a symbol of luxury and refined taste, stirs emotions and controversy. One of the main issues is the method of obtaining this coffee. In its natural production, civets, also known as palm civets, eat ripe coffee cherries in their natural habitat. Unfortunately, the growing demand for this coffee has led to the mass captivity of civets. Many of these animals are kept in cramped cages, deprived of freedom of movement and a natural lifestyle. They are often fed exclusively with coffee cherries, which deprives them of the varied diet they need to stay healthy. Such living conditions negatively impact their well-being, causing stress and illnesses.
How much does kopi luwak cost?
The price of kopi luwak depends on many factors, such as the place of production, the method of obtaining the beans (natural or industrial), and the quality of the coffee. Here are the approximate prices of kopi luwak:
Retail price around the world:
- The price for one kilogram of authentic kopi luwak typically ranges from £420 to £840.
- The price of coffee sold in smaller quantities, such as 100 grams, is around £42–£84.
Price in cafes:
- A cup of kopi luwak in a renowned cafe or restaurant can cost from £17 to £84, depending on the location and reputation of the place.
Due to the high price of kopi luwak, many counterfeits appear on the market that have nothing to do with the original production method. It is estimated that 80% of kopi luwak sold worldwide is fake, so it's worth checking the coffee source carefully before purchasing.
