Coffee consumption is on the rise across the world and Egypt is no exception. It is estimated that some 30% of adults in Egypt drink at least one cup of coffee per day, favouring cappuccinos, lattes, filter coffee, and other trendy drinks. As such, many have wondered if it is safe to drink coffee in Egypt, given the poor quality of water in some areas and the prevalence of foreign ingredients in Arabica beans sourced from abroad. To provide a better understanding of this question, this article will explore the safety of coffee in Egypt, including the types of coffee commonly found in the country and the associated food safety considerations.
Types of Coffee in Egypt
Coffee in Egypt mostly consists of imported beans from many different countries. Coffee beans are typically traded in two forms, green and roasted. Green beans can be found in some mainstream supermarkets, and obtained from independent coffee stores. Roasted beans, however, tend to be of higher quality and are usually purchased direct from the roaster. Depending on the quality and grind, Arabica beans sourced from Ethiopia, India, Brazil and other countries are typically found in the most popular shops in Cairo and other major cities.
The coffees in Egypt range from robusta to washed Arabica to a mixture of both. The majority of coffees are either washed or pulped natural. These two terms refer to different methods of processing the coffee beans. Washed coffees are almost free from defects and have very good traceability, whereas pulped natural coffees are more processed and less consistent in terms of quality.
Food Safety Considerations
Since coffee is a heavily regulated food item, there are several factors which need to be taken into consideration when drinking it in Egypt. The most important is the quality of the water used in the preparation of the coffee. Since most coffees in Egypt are imported, they may contain foreign contaminants such as microorganisms, inorganic materials, and herbicides – any of which can negatively affect the quality of the coffee.
In addition, the preparation of coffee should be done carefully in order to ensure the correct levels of caffeine and other compounds. Generally speaking, it is recommended to stick to traditional methods of preparation when making coffee in Egypt, such as through using a filter brewer or espresso machine. Boiling or microwave methods are usually not recommended, as these often lead to excessive boiling and over extraction of the coffee, negatively affecting its potential flavour characteristic.
Finally, it is important to note that the beans should be stored in an airtight container to preserve their flavour and prevent them from becoming stale. Proper storage will also help to prevent mould and other growth from forming, which could lead to health problems.
Is It Safe To Drink Coffee In Egypt?
Overall, it is safe to drink coffee in Egypt, assuming the necessary precautions are taken in terms of bean selection, water quality, and preparation. However, one should always be aware of the potential risks associated with consuming coffee in unfamiliar places, as well as the various regional and cultural considerations that need to be taken into account.
By ensuring that only high-quality coffee beans are used and that they are properly stored and prepared, one can rest assured that their cup of coffee will be both safe and enjoyable.
Ethical Considerations
Apart from the health and safety aspects of drinking coffee in Egypt, it is important to consider the ethical issues involved as well. Many of the imported coffee beans in Egypt are sourced from poorer regions, where farmers and workers may not be receiving a fair wage or working in proper conditions. As such, it is important to look for ethical sourcing guidelines and certifications when buying coffee beans in Egypt.
Fortunately, more and more roasters and cafes in the country are becoming more conscious of the conditions in which their coffee is sourced, and are taking steps to ensure a fair deal for everyone involved. This is a welcome change, as it helps to contribute to a more sustainable and ethical coffee industry.
Environmental Considerations
Another important factor to consider when it comes to drinking coffee in Egypt is the environmental impact of the industry. Coffee production can use up a lot of resources and can cause environmental damage, such as soil erosion and deforestation. However, consumption of sustainable and ethically produced coffee can help to offset this damage, by supporting farmers and roasters who are committed to preserving their land and livelihood.
As such, one should be sure to look for the certification labels associated with sustainable and ethical production before sourcing their favourite beans. This helps to ensure that the coffee being consumed is free from exploitation and is doing its bit to protect our planet.
Economic Considerations
In addition to the ethical and environmental considerations, one should also take into account the economic aspects of consuming coffee in Egypt. Coffee beans are an expensive commodity, and the country imports a large amount of its supply from abroad. This means that there is a significant cost associated with consuming coffee in Egypt, which affects both individuals and businesses alike.
To reduce the cost of coffee for individuals, one should look for local roasters and cafes which offer fair trade and organic coffee. This will not only help to support the local economy and ensure a fair deal for coffee farmers, but it can also help to reduce the cost of coffee overall. Similarly, businesses should also look for direct and sustainable sources of coffee, in order to ensure that they are not being exploited by multinational coffee companies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to drink coffee in Egypt safely, as long as the necessary precautions are taken. It is important to ensure that the coffee is sourced from ethical and sustainable sources, and that it is prepared and stored correctly. Furthermore, one should pay attention to the economic and environmental considerations associated with coffee production and consumption in the country in order to ensure a better future for all those involved.
