That, coupled with the fact that part of the reason for some of the low quality beans is the fact that farmers are forced to pick their coffee cherries early in order to cover debts — because they’re not getting a fair price for their coffee and are desparate — and the picture gets even more complicated.

But I totally see how what I wrote above could be seen as being contradictory read alone. Fair trade’s such a complicated animal — Writing in a blog format, it’s hard to keep posts a relatively snappy read while covering all bases — something I’m working on, but def. something I could improve on. In any case, I’m glad you commented and asked me to clarify :)

How much exactly should they buy in order for you to talk seriously? What if that amount does not exist in Starbucks standards. Remember not all FT coffee is in that quality range.

I just stumbled on you site and think you do a fine job. I did notice however that you seem to contradict yourself all over the place when an opportunity arrises to slam Starbucks. You yourself mention the shortcomings of FT coffee as it relates to Starbucks needs and yet when you quote a Starbucks opinion making the same point you usually follow it with a sarcastic comment. I respect that you have a strong opinion but if in order to support your idea you have to ignor a reasonable point on the other side of the issue then your strong opinion is somhow weakend.

I understand that it is not in your best interest to appear to concurr with Starbucks. Maybe you could use a little Fair Trade of ideas.

But it’s been interesting, meeting more religious people who share fair trade interests :)