Pesticides in Coffee: The Hidden Risks Behind the Global Coffee Supply Chain

A recent report published by weekly magazine L’Espresso, analyzes data from major coffee producing countries such as Brazil, Vietnam, Kenya, and Colombia, where coffee cultivation relies heavily on chemical substances that are banned in many coffee consuming countries.

One of the most frequently detected substances, though not necessarily the most dangerous, is glyphosate. Together with its metabolite AMPA, it was found in 72% of the samples analyzed.

Glyphosate is not the only concern. The report identified 159 active ingredients, around 60% of which are classified as highly hazardous pesticides, while 59% are banned in the European Union. Since these substances are considered harmful to both human health and the environment, their use is prohibited in Europe. Yet they continue to be manufactured and exported. The environmental consequences in the importing countries, including water contamination, soil degradation, and the loss of pollinators, as well as the health impacts on local populations, such as poisoning risks, respiratory illnesses, neurological disorders, cancer, and unsafe drinking water, are largely overlooked. What matters most is keeping the cost of coffee, cocoa, bananas, and other tropical products low.

The report condemns this double standard, noting that pesticides banned in Europe but still produced there for export to countries that grow so-called "colonial commodities" inevitably return in the imported coffee beans and other agricultural products consumed in Europe.

Consumers are generally unaware of the presence of these pesticide residues, as product labels do not disclose this information.

Numerous NGOs are calling for two key actions: first, a ban on the export of pesticides from developed countries when those same substances are prohibited domestically; and second, stricter controls on imported agricultural products.

However, what is needed most is a transition toward more sustainable agricultural practices, including organic farming, agroecology, and biological pest control.

Achieving a safer, more transparent, and more environmentally responsible coffee supply chain also requires a broader shift in thinking. This includes providing technical support to farmers and being willing to pay a fairer price for coffee that is safer, environmentally sustainable, and produced under conditions that do not harm the livelihoods and well-being of workers and communities in coffee growing regions.

The Role of Suolo e Salute

In light of the concerns highlighted by the Poison In Your Coffee report, the role of certification and inspection bodies is becoming increasingly important in promoting sustainable and transparent agricultural systems. Suolo e Salute supports farmers, processors, and supply chain operators in transitioning to production practices that reduce or eliminate the use of synthetic chemical pesticides through organic certification and compliance verification against national and international standards.

Through its inspection, certification, and operator support activities, Suolo e Salute helps promote farming systems that protect soil fertility, biodiversity, water resources, and human health. The growth of certified organic production provides consumers with greater transparency and confidence while supporting coffee and other agricultural supply chains that are safer, more responsible, and more respectful of both the environment and the communities involved in production.

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Want to ensure greater transparency, sustainability, and trust across your agri-food supply chain? Discover how Suolo e Salute’s certification services can support your transition to more responsible agriculture. Please contact us for more information.

Download the free Cotecna Organic Brochure.

About Cotecna

For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.

About Suolo e Salute

Established in Italy, Suolo e Salute is a leading Control and Certification Body dedicated to soil and environmental testing. With a strong focus on accuracy, sustainability, and scientific excellence, it supports agricultural, environmental, and regulatory clients with tailored analytical solutions. Committed to innovation and environmental stewardship, Suolo e Salute delivers trustworthy insights that drive responsible land management. Suolo e Salute brings global expertise and local impact together.