Coffee Roasting
Coffee roasting is the process of heating green coffee beans up to a certain point. This process unlocks the flavor that is between the caffeine and the oils in the beans. Heat is applied to the beans consistently for an even roast. Temperature and length of roasting process will affect the flavor. Starbucks has their own special roasting techniques to make sure that the flavor potential is reached.
This roasting process varies greatly depending on the type of bean being heated. Lighter beans need a lower temperature in order to produce a less acidic and smoother espresso. Darker beans need higher temperatures in order to produce a heavier body and more complex espresso. Starbucks has a 2-step process which involves heating the beans at low temperatures in the beginning and then increasing the temperatures steadily as the roast progresses. The beans are monitored throughout this process in order to achieve a specific set of characteristics for each bean.
In order to ensure an even roast, Starbucks use an industrial sized rotating drum. This rotating drum has its own ventilation system, which allows the beans to be roasted in an even manner. This ventilation also cools the beans more evenly, ensuring that the bean has been roasted to the desired color. Temperature within the roaster is monitored and adjusted throughout the roasting process.
Coffee Blending and Flavoring
After roasting, the beans are cooled and stored until they are used in blending and flavoring. The blends are created to produce the desired cup of coffee. At Starbucks, a team of flavorists is responsible for creating and selecting the flavors of its coffees. The flavorists have the expertise to be able to choose from hundreds of flavors and create unique blends that are characterized by the intensity of the different flavors.
The beans are ground to the desired specification and then blended with other ingredients such as spices and flavors. The blend is then used to create the desired drink. This can be done through a variety of methods such as steeping, espresso, or french press. Each method creates a flavor profile depending on the amount of time the beans are exposed to the water. The beans are also infused with flavorings or spices, if desired. Flavoring enhances the taste of the coffee while spices can add a unique complexity to the cup.
Brewing Process
The brewing process is the most important step in creating a great cup of coffee. Starbucks uses techniques designed to deliver maximum flavor and aroma to the cup. Different types of brewing methods require varying levels of time and equipment. Brewing is also a very specific process depending on the type of coffee. Different coffees need to be brewed at different temperatures, times and grinds.
The amount of time that the water is in contact with the beans is important; too little time can lead to a weak cup of coffee and too much time can over-extract the flavor. Starbucks uses espresso machines that regulate the time and pressure used to extract the flavor from the beans. The espresso machine also accurately maintains the temperature of the water for a consistent cup.
Cup Design and Presentation
Cup design is an important part of the Starbucks experience and presentation. The cup design often reflects the company`s values and helps to create an atmosphere that encourages customers to come back. With the help of their team of designers, Starbucks has created a variety of cups, mugs and coffee-related items that are designed to be aesthetically pleasing.
Presentation is another key aspect that Starbucks takes into consideration. The baristas are trained to present customers with their drinks in a way that they can appreciate. Presentation relates to the overall experience that customers take away with them. Through its presentation, Starbucks has created an atmosphere of quality and consistency in its products and service.
Social Responsibility
Starbucks is committed to socially responsible practices such as sourcing and using quality coffee that is sustainably grown, helping enhance the lives of farmers, and engaging in ethical trading practices. They have taken steps to support the communities in which they operate, such as working towards eliminating water waste from their facilities. Starbucks has also committed to using only certified Fair Trade ingredients in their products.
In addition to this social responsibility, Starbucks also gives back to the community in other ways. This includes donations to various charitable organizations, such as those supporting the fight against homelessness. Starbucks also encourages its customers to practice environmentally conscious behaviors, such as reducing waste or recycling. The company also helps to create employment opportunities in its nearby stores, allowing local businesses to grow and develop.
Environmental Impact
Starbucks takes its environmental impact seriously, reducing their negative effects on the planet wherever possible. For example, Starbucks has abolished the use of plastic straws as a means of waste management and has found other uses for their coffee grounds. The company also uses recyclable materials whenever possible and encourages sustainable practices throughout their operations.
The company has also launched a program called Roast-to-Light which recycles any energy generated from the roasting and packaging process. This energy is then used to power the plant and the surrounding area. By taking steps like these Starbucks shows that it is willing to reduce its own environmental impacts, creating a more sustainable future for its customers.
Sourcing Practices
Starbucks also has a commitment to ethical sourcing practices. The company has developed relationships with farmers and suppliers in order to ensure that the coffee beans it uses are sourced responsibly. This includes ensuring that the farmers receive fair wages and that the beans are sustainably grown. Starbucks also has a system in place to trace each bean before it is roasted and packaged in order to ensure that the coffee is of the highest quality.
In addition, Starbucks has also developed a program to ensure that its suppliers are utilizing sustainable practices and minimizing their environmental impact. This includes reducing water use and minimizing their carbon footprint. Starbucks also works with local farmers in order to ensure a better quality of life for them and their families.
Conclusion
Starbucks is committed to providing its customers with the highest quality coffee while taking into account the ethical and environmental effects of its operations. The company has invested heavily in developing relationships with its farmers and suppliers, ensuring that its coffee beans are sustainably grown and ethically sourced. Starbucks has also developed techniques designed to maximize flavor, aroma, and presentation of its coffees. By taking these steps, Starbucks has become an international leader in the coffee industry.
