Introduction to Coffee – Topic Overview
Course Description:
The Introduction to Coffee course offers a broad overview of the specialty coffee industry. It explores the historical and geographical origins of coffee, the journey from seed to cup, and the factors influencing coffee quality and flavor. This course is ideal for individuals who are new to coffee or seeking foundational knowledge before pursuing specialized modules.
Key Topics Covered:
- Origins and Supply Chain
- The story of coffee from Ethiopia to global trade
- Coffee-growing regions and major producing countries
- Coffee as a plant: species, varieties, and key differences
- The specialty coffee value chain: farm to cup
- Coffee Processing and Roasting
- Introduction to harvesting and processing methods
- Basic roasting concepts and their impact on flavor
- Understanding coffee freshness and storage strategies
- Sensory Experience
- Fundamentals of taste and aroma perception
- How origin, processing, and roast influence flavor
- Introduction to cupping using SCA protocols
- Brewing Principles
- Overview of common brewing methods
- Essential extraction variables: ratio, time, temperature
- Water quality and its influence on flavor
- Cleaning and Maintenance
- Hygiene and maintenance best practices
- Importance of equipment cleanliness in quality assurance
Course Format:
- Duration: Minimum 4 hours
- Delivery: In-person, online, or hybrid
- Assessment: Online written exam (passing score: 60%)
- Prerequisites: None required
Certification:
Successful participants receive the SCA Introduction to Coffee certificate and earn 10 points toward the SCA Coffee Skills Diploma.