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Mycotoxins in Coffee

What You Should Know and Why Cosmic Coffee Cares

Coffee is more than a morning ritual—it’s a sensory experience, a connection to the land, and a reflection of the care behind every bean. But beneath the surface of this beloved brew lies a lesser-known concern: mycotoxins. These naturally occurring toxins, produced by certain molds, can contaminate coffee if it’s not handled properly. So, is your coffee safe?

What Are Mycotoxins?

Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by molds like Aspergillus and Penicillium. They thrive in warm, humid environments—conditions common in coffee-growing regions. The most common mycotoxins found in coffee are ochratoxin A (OTA) and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), which can pose health risks if consumed in high amounts over time.

How Do Mycotoxins Get Into Coffee?

Contamination can occur at several stages:

  • Growing: Poor soil health or excessive humidity can encourage mold.
  • Harvesting: Delays or damage to cherries can increase risk.
  • Processing: Inadequate drying or fermentation can allow mold to grow.
  • Storage: Beans stored in damp or unventilated conditions are vulnerable.
  • Roasting: While roasting kills mold, it doesn’t fully eliminate mycotoxins already present.

Cosmic Coffee’s Commitment to Clean Beans

At Cosmic Coffee Company, we take a proactive approach to quality and safety:

  • Certified Organic & Shade-Grown: Healthier ecosystems mean healthier beans.
  • Direct Trade Relationships: We work with farmers who prioritize clean processing and proper drying techniques.
  • Micro-Lot Selection: We choose small batches with traceable origins and exceptional handling.
  • Precision Roasting: Our roast profiles are designed to preserve flavor while reducing residual toxins.
  • Storage Standards: Beans are kept in climate-controlled environments to prevent mold growth.

Transparency You Can Taste

We believe customers deserve to know what’s in their cup. That’s why we share our sourcing stories, roast profiles, and brewing recommendations openly. Our coffees aren’t just flavorful—they’re responsibly crafted, ethically sourced, and handled with care from farm to filter.

Final Sip

Yes, mycotoxins exist in the world of coffee—but with the right sourcing, processing, and roasting, they can be minimized to safe, trace levels. At Cosmic Coffee, we go beyond the minimum. We aim for excellence, integrity, and a cup that’s as clean as it is cosmic.