8 Sustainable Coffee Brands I Love

8 Sustainable Coffee Brands I Love

Can a cup of coffee save the world? Yes, if you choose wisely!

Let’s be real: coffee is the fuel that keeps us going. But what if I told you that your daily brew could also contribute to a healthier planet? Sustainable coffee brands are on a mission to do just that, and I’ve rounded up my top 8 favorites that make sipping guilt-free a reality.

From rich, chocolatey blends to bright, fruity notes, these brands prove that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for ethics. Ready to make your mornings a little more conscious? Let’s dive in!

Our Favorite Selections

1
Equal Exchange Colombian Ground Coffee
Editor's Choice
Equal Exchange Colombian Ground Coffee
Best for Ethical Coffee Lovers
9
Amazon.com
2
Ethiopian Yirgacheffe Whole Bean Coffee
Best Value
Ethiopian Yirgacheffe Whole Bean Coffee
Best for Bright, Fruity Flavors
8.7
Amazon.com
3
Kicking Horse Grizzly Claw Coffee
Premium Choice
Kicking Horse Grizzly Claw Coffee
Best for Chocolate Lovers
8.5
Amazon.com
4
Peet's Organic French Roast Coffee
Best Dark Roast
Peet's Organic French Roast Coffee
Rich and Flavorful Dark Roast
8.3
Amazon.com
5
Peet's Medium Roast Brazil Coffee
Best Single Origin
Peet's Medium Roast Brazil Coffee
Smooth Hazelnut Flavor
8.2
Amazon.com
6
Newman's Own Organic Breakfast Blend
Newman's Own Organic Breakfast Blend
Smooth and Satisfying Morning Brew
8
Amazon.com
7
Amazon Fresh Fair Trade Sumatra Coffee
Best Budget Option
Amazon Fresh Fair Trade Sumatra Coffee
Best for Dark Roast Lovers
7.8
Amazon.com
8
Amazon Fresh Sumatra Whole Bean Coffee
Best for Smooth Brews
Amazon Fresh Sumatra Whole Bean Coffee
Bold Flavor at an Affordable Price
7.5
Amazon.com

Editor's Choice
1

Equal Exchange Colombian Ground Coffee

Best for Ethical Coffee Lovers
9/10
EXPERT SCORE

Equal Exchange's Colombian coffee is not only delicious but also ethically sourced, making it a top choice for conscious consumers. Its bold flavor and subtle sweetness make every sip a pleasure.

Why You'll Love It
Ethically sourced and Fair Trade
Bold, rich flavor with complex notes
Supports small-scale farmers
Drawbacks
Might be too strong for some
Limited availability in some areas
Higher price compared to standard brands

Equal Exchange Organic Ground Coffee is a shining example of how delicious coffee can also make a positive impact on the world. Sourced from small-scale farmer cooperatives, this 12-ounce pack of Colombian coffee features a full city roast blend that presents refined citrus notes, dried fig, and hints of sweet chocolate.

Sustainability: This brand is dedicated to Fair Trade practices, ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation while also promoting sustainable farming techniques.
Flavor Experience: The coffee is complex and bright, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a sophisticated cup. It's perfect for brewing in various methods, including French press and drip coffee makers.
Community Impact: By choosing Equal Exchange, you're not only enjoying great coffee but also contributing to the well-being of farming communities around the globe.

Best Value
2

Ethiopian Yirgacheffe Whole Bean Coffee

Best for Bright, Fruity Flavors
8.7/10
EXPERT SCORE

This Ethiopian coffee offers a unique blend of complex flavors that are both refreshing and delightful. Its bright acidity and fruity notes make it a fantastic choice for those seeking an invigorating cup.

Why You'll Love It
100% USDA Organic
Bright and fruity flavor profile
Freshly roasted for maximum flavor
Drawbacks
Higher price point than some brands
Some may find it too acidic
Not as strong for dark roast lovers

Ethiopian Coffee, Yirgacheffe Region is a USDA Organic whole bean coffee that brings the rich flavors of Ethiopia straight to your cup. With notes of lemon, blueberry, and blackberry, this coffee features a medium-bodied texture and a delightful earthy aroma. It is freshly roasted and immediately packed to ensure the best flavor experience.

Flavor Profile: Medium/light roast that highlights the coffee's natural complexity, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a clean and aromatic cup.
Organic Commitment: Being 100% USDA certified means you're not just drinking great coffee, but you're also making a sustainable choice that supports environmentally friendly farming practices.
User Experience: Many coffee lovers have found the Ethiopian Yirgacheffe to be a rewarding option for both daily brewing and special occasions. It's versatile enough for various brewing methods, making it a great addition to any coffee enthusiast's collection.

Premium Choice
3

Kicking Horse Grizzly Claw Coffee

Best for Chocolate Lovers
8.5/10
EXPERT SCORE

Kicking Horse's Grizzly Claw offers a rich chocolatey flavor profile that's perfect for those who enjoy a decadent cup of coffee. It's smooth, earthy, and ideal for any time of day.

Why You'll Love It
Rich chocolate and hazelnut notes
Organic and Fairtrade certified
Smooth with low acidity
Drawbacks
Higher price point
Not suitable for those who prefer lighter roasts
Limited availability

Kicking Horse Coffee, Grizzly Claw is a dark roast that promises a deliciously rich coffee experience. With tasting notes of dark chocolate, cacao nibs, and roasted hazelnuts, this coffee is a treat for the taste buds.

Roasting Location: Roasted in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, this coffee is crafted with care, using only the finest Arabica beans. It's free from preservatives and fillers, ensuring pure coffee enjoyment.
Brewing Versatility: The medium fine grind makes it suitable for French press, drip, and pour-over methods, allowing you to enjoy its complex flavors in the way you prefer.
Environmental Commitment: Kicking Horse Coffee is dedicated to sustainable sourcing, making it a great choice for eco-conscious consumers who refuse to compromise on taste.

Best Dark Roast
4

Peet's Organic French Roast Coffee

Rich and Flavorful Dark Roast
8.3/10
EXPERT SCORE

Peet's Organic French Roast stands out for its rich, bold flavors and commitment to quality. It's a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a deep, satisfying cup of coffee.

Why You'll Love It
Deep, rich flavor
Organic and sustainably sourced
Perfect for various brewing methods
Drawbacks
Premium price point
May be too strong for some
Limited options for decaf

Peet's Coffee, USDA Organic French Roast is a testament to the art of dark roasting. Known for its smoky chocolate truffle notes and rich complexity, this coffee is sourced from high-altitude regions in Latin America.

Flavor and Aroma: This blend offers a bold, deep flavor that is perfect for those who enjoy a strong cup of coffee. It's ideal for brewing methods such as drip or pour-over, which highlight its intricate flavors.
Sustainable Practices: Peet's commitment to organic farming ensures a more environmentally friendly cup, supporting sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both farmers and consumers.
Customer Favorite: With a loyal following, this coffee has garnered positive reviews for its consistent quality and exceptional taste.

Best Single Origin
5

Peet's Medium Roast Brazil Coffee

Smooth Hazelnut Flavor
8.2/10
EXPERT SCORE

Peet's Single Origin Brazil offers a unique flavor profile that showcases the best of Brazilian coffee. Its smooth, hazelnut notes make it a delightful choice for any coffee lover.

Why You'll Love It
Smooth and balanced flavor
Single origin quality
Ethically sourced
Drawbacks
Premium price
Limited availability
May not be strong enough for dark roast fans

Peet's Coffee, Medium Roast Single Origin Brazil is a celebration of the flavors found in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Known for its naturally sweet and smooth profile, this coffee features tasting notes of dried fruit and hazelnut, making it a delightful choice for any coffee enthusiast.

Flavor Journey: The medium roast enhances the natural sweetness of the beans, creating a cup that's smooth and full-bodied, appealing to a wide range of palates.
Brewing Recommendations: Perfect for drip or pour-over methods, this coffee allows you to savor its complex flavors in your favorite brewing style.
Quality Commitment: Peet's is dedicated to sourcing high-quality beans, ensuring that each cup you brew supports sustainable farming practices and delivers a truly exceptional coffee experience.

6

Newman's Own Organic Breakfast Blend

Smooth and Satisfying Morning Brew
8/10
EXPERT SCORE

Newman's Own Breakfast Blend is the perfect way to start your day. Its balanced flavor and commitment to social causes make it a standout option for morning coffee lovers.

Why You'll Love It
Rich, smooth flavor
Supports charitable causes
100% organic
Drawbacks
Smaller bag size
May not appeal to dark roast fans
Limited availability

Newman's Own Organics Breakfast Blend is a medium roast coffee that strikes a perfect balance between flavor and ethical responsibility. With rich caramel and dark chocolate notes, this blend is a delightful way to start your day.

Flavor Profile: The coffee is smooth, rich, and satisfying, making it ideal for morning consumption or as a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Social Responsibility: A portion of profits from this coffee goes towards helping children with serious illnesses, reflecting the brand's commitment to giving back.
Quality Assurance: Certified organic and kosher, Newman's Own ensures that you're enjoying a clean, responsibly sourced product with every cup.

Best Budget Option
7

Amazon Fresh Fair Trade Sumatra Coffee

Best for Dark Roast Lovers
7.8/10
EXPERT SCORE

This dark roast coffee from Amazon Fresh delivers intense flavors at an unbeatable price. It's a solid choice for anyone who enjoys a bold and earthy cup without breaking the bank.

Why You'll Love It
Affordable price
Deep, intense flavor
Fair Trade certified
Drawbacks
Packaging issues reported
Flavor may be too strong for some
Not as complex compared to premium brands

Amazon Fresh Organic Fair Trade Sumatra Ground Coffee is crafted from high-quality 100% Arabica beans, ensuring a robust and flavorful experience. This dark roast offers captivating earthy and spicy notes, making it a delightful choice for coffee enthusiasts.

Flavor Profile: The bold, intense flavor is perfect for those who love a rich cup of coffee. It's versatile for various brewing methods and delivers a satisfying aroma with every brew.
Sustainability Commitment: As Fair Trade certified, this coffee supports ethical sourcing practices, ensuring that farmers are treated fairly and sustainably.
Affordability: At a budget-friendly price, this coffee is a great option for daily drinking without compromising on quality or taste.

Best for Smooth Brews
8

Amazon Fresh Sumatra Whole Bean Coffee

Bold Flavor at an Affordable Price
7.5/10
EXPERT SCORE

Amazon Fresh's Sumatra Whole Bean Coffee offers a great value for those who appreciate a bold and earthy flavor. It's a solid choice for everyday coffee drinkers looking for quality on a budget.

Why You'll Love It
Affordable price
Rich, bold flavor
Organic and Fair Trade certified
Drawbacks
May taste burnt to some
Packaging complaints
Not as complex as premium options

Amazon Fresh Organic Fair Trade Sumatra Whole Bean Coffee is a dark roast that promises a rich and satisfying experience. Sourced from high-quality Arabica beans, it offers intense flavors that can be enjoyed by coffee enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

Flavor Profile: This coffee features earthy and spicy notes, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a deeper, more robust cup.
Sustainability: As both organic and Fair Trade certified, you're not only getting a great coffee but also supporting sustainable farming practices.
Brewing Versatility: Ideal for a variety of brewing methods, this coffee can be enjoyed through drip, French press, or manual pour-over, allowing you to control the flavor intensity to your liking.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for an ethical choice that doesn't compromise on taste, I highly recommend trying Equal Exchange Colombian Ground Coffee for its rich flavor and ethical sourcing, or Kicking Horse Grizzly Claw Coffee if you're a chocolate lover wanting a decadent experience. Both options not only elevate your coffee game, but they also support sustainable practices that make a difference.


The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Sustainable Coffee

Navigating the world of sustainable coffee can be a bit overwhelming with so many options available. Here are some key points to consider when selecting your next favorite brew:

1. Understanding Certifications

Look for certifications on coffee packaging. Fair Trade ensures that farmers receive a fair wage, while USDA Organic guarantees that the beans are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. Brands with these certifications are often more committed to sustainability.

2. Know Your Roast Preferences

Different coffee roasts provide different flavor profiles. For instance, dark roasts like Amazon Fresh Fair Trade Sumatra Coffee have bolder, earthy flavors, while light roasts tend to be more fruity and acidic. Understanding your taste can help you choose the right sustainable coffee that you'll enjoy.

3. Explore Single-Origin vs. Blends

Single-origin coffees, like the Ethiopian Yirgacheffe Whole Bean Coffee, often showcase unique flavor characteristics tied to their region. Blends, on the other hand, combine beans from various locations to create a balanced flavor. Depending on your preference, you may enjoy exploring both.

4. Experiment and Taste Test

Don't be afraid to try different brands and varieties! Every coffee has its unique charm. You might find that you love the rich chocolate notes of Kicking Horse Grizzly Claw Coffee one day and crave the bright acidity of Peet's Medium Roast Brazil Coffee the next.

5. Consider the Brewing Method

Different brewing methods can affect the taste of your coffee. Espresso machines, French presses, and pour-over methods each bring out different flavor notes. Experimenting with your brewing technique can enhance your coffee experience significantly.

By being informed and adventurous in your coffee choices, you not only treat your taste buds but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Cheers to that!


FAQs

What makes coffee sustainable?

Sustainable coffee is produced with methods that are environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and economically viable. This includes practices like fair trade, organic farming, and supporting local communities.

How can I tell if a coffee brand is sustainable?

Look for certifications like Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, or USDA Organic. Additionally, check if the brand shares information about their sourcing practices and commitment to environmental impact.

Why should I choose sustainable coffee?

Choosing sustainable coffee helps to protect the environment, supports fair labor practices, and often results in a higher-quality product. It’s a win-win for you and the planet!

Can I find sustainable coffee at my local grocery store?

Yes! Many grocery stores now carry sustainable coffee brands. Look for them in the coffee aisle or check the organic section.

Is sustainable coffee more expensive?

While sustainable coffee can sometimes be pricier due to higher production costs, many brands offer great value without compromising quality, especially when compared to non-sustainable options.

15 thoughts on “8 Sustainable Coffee Brands I Love”

  1. Honestly, I think the Amazon Fresh coffees get overlooked. The Sumatra Dark Roast is pretty solid for the price! Has anyone else tried their whole bean version?

  2. Peet’s Coffee is my go-to! I love their French Roast. It’s like a warm hug in a cup. ☕️ But I’m also intrigued by the Newman’s Own Breakfast Blend, anyone tried it?

    1. I’ve had the Newman’s Own Breakfast Blend! It’s smooth and perfect for mornings. You might like it, Sarah!

  3. I just bought the Equal Exchange coffee and it’s soooo good! 🙌 It’s my new favorite. I love supporting ethical brands. What’s the best way to brew it for the best taste?

  4. I was skeptical about Newman’s Own at first, but it’s surprisingly good! 😄 It has a nice balance. What’s the best way to brew it for maximum flavor?

  5. I have to admit, Peet’s coffee is hit or miss for me. Sometimes it’s too bold. 😅 I’m looking for something smoother. Any suggestions?

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