Does Coffee Contain Mold & Mycotoxins? Unraveling the Concerns

If you've ever wondered, "Does coffee contain mold?" - this blog is for you. Coffee, a cherished beverage embraced globally, has recently faced online scrutiny regarding potentially harmful levels of mold and mycotoxins. However, scientific evidence doesn't support these claims. While it's true that mycotoxins, toxins produced by molds, can develop on coffee beans, the risks are minimal. Let’s dive into the world of coffee and mold to separate fact from fiction.

Does Coffee Have Mold in It?

Yes, coffee beans can indeed harbor mold. This is primarily a concern at the pre-roasting stage when the beans are still green and have a higher moisture content. Mold and mycotoxins thrive in warm, humid conditions, and improper storage or processing of coffee beans can create a breeding ground for it. However, the good news is that roasting, which involves high temperatures, effectively kills most mold and mycotoxins on coffee beans.

Is Coffee Toxic?

Coffee itself is not toxic. In fact, it's associated with numerous health benefits when consumed in moderation. However, mycotoxins, if present at high enough levels, can pose health risks.

Are mycotoxins in coffee a concern?

Mycotoxins are toxins produced by molds that can grow on food and other organic matter. The levels of mycotoxins in coffee are typically very low. In fact, the European Union has set a maximum limit of 2 micrograms per kilogram (µg/kg) for aflatoxin B1, a type of mycotoxin that is considered to be the most carcinogenic.

Most coffee beans do not exceed this limit. However, there have been some cases where coffee beans have been contaminated with high levels of mycotoxins. This is usually due to improper storage or handling of the beans.

• Mycotoxins: Some molds produce mycotoxins, which can be harmful if ingested. These toxins have been linked to various health issues, including liver damage and cancer.
• Allergic reactions: Mold can trigger allergic reactions in some people, leading to symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and skin rashes.

Does Boiling Kill Mold?

Yes, boiling water can kill mold. However, it's important to note that it may not eliminate all the mycotoxins (toxic substances produced by certain molds) that may be present.

So, Should I Be Worried?

There are some claims online about coffee having harmful levels of molds and mycotoxins. However, this is not supported by science. Generally, the risk of mold and mycotoxin contamination in commercially available coffee is minimal. Roasting significantly reduces the risk, and reputable coffee brands (like Bonefrog Coffee!) adhere to strict quality control measures.

However, some people may be more sensitive to mycotoxins and may experience adverse health effects even at low levels of exposure. 

How to Minimize the Risk? Prevention and Control

• Coffee producers and processors take steps to prevent and control mold growth and mycotoxin contamination.
• These steps may include proper storage, drying, and processing of coffee beans, as well as regular testing for mycotoxins.  
• Consumers can also help to reduce their risk of exposure to mycotoxins by choosing coffee from reputable brands and storing coffee properly in a cool, dry place.  

How Bonefrog Coffee Prioritizes Your Health

Minimizing microbial risks in your coffee is a top priority, and one of the best ways to achieve this is by choosing beans that qualify as "Specialty Coffee." This designation, awarded by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), requires a rigorous grading process where coffees are evaluated on numerous factors, including the presence of mold and mycotoxins. Only coffees scoring over 80% earn this prestigious classification.

Specialty Coffee, like our Bonefrog Blend, is considered to be at a very low risk for containing harmful levels of mold and mycotoxins. This is due to a combination of factors, including meticulous cultivation and processing techniques at the plantation level, the inherent quality of the beans themselves, and careful roasting and handling practices.

Our commitment to quality is evident in the fact that Bonefrog Blend has earned the "Specialty Coffee" designation. SCA certified graders rigorously evaluated both the blend and its individual components, awarding scores exceeding the 80% threshold. This places our coffee among the top 6% in the world, assuring you an exceptionally flavorful and safe cup with minimal risk of mold or mycotoxins.

The Final Verdict: The Benefits of Coffee Outweigh the Risks

The truth is, it's virtually impossible to find any coffee (or most foods, for that matter) that's 100% free of mold and mycotoxins. However, this doesn't mean your morning cup is a health hazard. The key takeaway is that while some mold may be present in coffee beans, reputable brands like Bonefrog Coffee adhere to strict quality standards and testing to ensure mycotoxin levels are well below any level of concern. Enjoy your coffee with confidence!

Brewed with Honor: Veteran Owned Coffee

With Bonefrog, it's also a way to support veteran owned coffee companies and the US Navy SEAL community. With every cup of delicious coffee, you support organizations like the SEAL Legacy Foundation, SEAL Veterans Foundation, Navy SEALS Fund, and the Navy SEAL Foundation. 

Take the Coffee Finder Quiz and check out some Coffee Samples from Bonefrog today!