Certifications

 We are proud to offer several coffees that carry one or more of these certifications. We're one of only 23 roasters in the entire U.S. that's certified by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center to roast "Bird friendly" coffee!

Bird friendly Coffee (SMBC)
 This is the only true “shade-grown” certification. Developed by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, it has the most robust habitat requirements of any coffee certification, including rules on the height and density of the canopy cover and the number and types of shade-tree species. In addition, bird friendly coffee must also be certified organic. Only coffee certified by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center can be called Bird friendly. See graphic at bottom of page.

Rain Forest Alliance (RFA)
 Rain Forest Alliance certification covers community relations, the fair treatment of workers, and other issues. Criteria for shade management are not required but are included among many recommended standards related to habitat. The shade criteria are not as strict as Bird-Friendly standards, and organic certification is not required. However, for farms where lots of shade is not possible (such as at high elevations, where clouds provide shade) or those that cannot meet all organic requirements, Rain Forest Alliance certification is very valuable. https://www.rainforest-alliance.org

Fair Trade (FT)
 Fair Trade focuses on social and environmental responsibility, meaning the well-being of the humans growing and processing products and the environment around them. Once in compliance with the related standards, certified entities can sell their products with the Fair Trade Certified™ seal, resulting in Fair Trade Premium going to the producers and workers in that supply chain. Having the Fair Trade Certified™ seal on products means consumers know their products have met rigorous requirements. https://www.fairtradecertified.org