Café de Especialidad vs Café Comercial: ¿En qué se diferencian y qué tipo de bolsa es la ideal para cada uno?

Specialty Coffee vs. Commercial Coffee: What are the differences and what type of bag is ideal for each?

Introduction: The world of coffee is divided into two broad categories: specialty coffee and commercial coffee. Although both come from the same plant, the process, quality, and final experience are very different. In this blog, we will explain the main differences between these two types of coffee and how the right packaging can make a difference in the freshness and quality of your product.

1. What is specialty coffee?

Specialty coffee refers to coffee beans that have been carefully selected and evaluated by expert tasters. To be considered specialty, the coffee must score at least 80 points out of 100 in an evaluation by the SCA (Specialty Coffee Association).

  • Process: Grown in specific regions, with meticulous attention at every stage of the process, from harvesting to roasting.
  • Quality: The beans are hand-selected to ensure that only the best are used. Attention is paid to flavour notes and the unique characteristics of each region are highlighted.
  • Consumption: Specialty coffee is roasted in small batches and is typically enjoyed in artisanal cafes, where baristas brew each cup with precision.

2. What is commercial coffee?

Commercial coffee is the type of coffee most commonly found in supermarkets and large-scale stores. It does not have the same strict standards as specialty coffee and is intended to meet mass demand.

  • Process: Produced in large quantities, with less attention to detail in cultivation and harvesting.
  • Quality: May include defective or lower quality beans. It is roasted uniformly in large batches, often resulting in a more bitter or "burnt" flavor profile.
  • Consumption: This coffee is intended for quick and convenient consumption, without much concern for flavor notes or origin.

3. Why is the type of bag important in each case?

Packaging plays a fundamental role in preserving the freshness and aromas of coffee. Depending on the type of coffee you sell, the choice of bag can impact the final quality that reaches the consumer.

Specialty coffee bags:

For specialty coffee, it is crucial to use packaging that preserves the unique characteristics of the bean, as its aromas and flavors can quickly degrade if not stored properly.

  • Bags with a degassing valve: As freshly roasted coffee continues to release CO₂, it is essential that the bags have a valve that allows this gas to escape, without letting oxygen in. Oxygen is coffee’s number one enemy, as it speeds up the oxidation process, affecting both flavour and aroma.

  • Flat Bottom Bags: These bags are not only functional for storing coffee, but also offer excellent shelf presentation, giving the product a more premium look.

  • Recyclable Kraft Bags: Many specialty coffee drinkers are interested in sustainability. Using eco-friendly Kraft paper bags not only preserves freshness, but also sends a message of respect for the environment.

Bags for commercial coffee:

Commercial coffee is generally produced in high volumes and its main concern is maintaining basic freshness over time.

  • Valveless plastic bags: These bags are cheaper and, in many cases, do not have degassing valves, since commercial coffee is usually not fresh or has the same volatile characteristics as specialty coffee.

  • Vacuum or heat-seal bags: These are common in commercial coffee, where freshness is maintained by completely removing air from the packaging. However, this can have a negative impact on the flavor of the coffee, as it tends to lose some nuances throughout the process.

  • Aluminum or metalized bags: These bags offer an excellent barrier against oxygen, allowing commercial coffee to have a longer shelf life.

4. Which bag is best for your business?

If your business is geared toward specialty coffee, we recommend opting for packaging that maintains freshness and offers a nice presentation, such as degassing valve bags and flat-bottom bags. On the other hand, if you work with commercial coffee, plastic or heat-seal bags may be more economical and suitable for large volumes.

Conclusion: Specialty coffee and commercial coffee have very different approaches, and each requires a suitable type of packaging to ensure the best experience for the consumer. At coffebags.com , we offer a wide range of bags for both types of coffee, from sustainable options to high-quality packaging with a degassing valve, designed to maintain freshness and stand out on the shelves.

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