Coffee is a beloved beverage around the world, with millions of people enjoying a freshly brewed cup each day. While most people prefer their coffee to be made with roasted beans, there is one unique coffee variety that stands out from the rest: elephant poop coffee.
Yes, you read that right. This coffee is made from beans that have been eaten and excreted by elephants. It may sound strange, but elephant poop coffee, also known as Black Ivory Coffee, is a premium and highly sought-after brew. In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of elephant poop coffee.
The Origins of Elephant Poop Coffee
Elephant poop coffee originated in Thailand in 2012, where Blake Dinkin, a Canadian entrepreneur, set out to create a new type of coffee. He partnered with the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, an organization that works to protect elephants, to develop a sustainable and ethical coffee production process.
The coffee beans used for elephant poop coffee are of the Arabica variety, which are known for their high quality and rich flavor. The elephants are fed a special diet of fruits and vegetables, and the coffee cherries are mixed in with their food. The elephants then digest the cherries, and the beans are collected from their poop.
The Production Process
After the elephants excrete the beans, they are thoroughly washed and sun-dried. The beans are then roasted, ground, and brewed like any other coffee. It is a labor-intensive process, with each elephant producing only a small amount of beans at a time, which contributes to the coffee’s high cost.
The Taste of Elephant Poop Coffee
Despite its unconventional production process, elephant poop coffee has a unique and complex flavor profile. The coffee has a smooth and velvety texture, with notes of chocolate, caramel, and a hint of earthiness. It is a full-bodied coffee with low acidity and a sweet finish.
The Price of Elephant Poop Coffee
Elephant poop coffee is one of the most expensive coffees in the world, with prices ranging from $50 to $500 per cup. The high price is due to the labor-intensive production process and the limited supply of beans.
The Ethics of Elephant Poop Coffee
One of the main criticisms of elephant poop coffee is its ethics. Some people argue that it is unethical to use elephants for the production of coffee, even if they are well-cared for and the process is sustainable. Others argue that the coffee production provides a source of income for the elephant sanctuary and helps support their conservation efforts.
Elephant Poop Coffee Brands
There are a few brands that produce elephant poop coffee, also known as Black Ivory Coffee. These include:
- Black Ivory Coffee – This is the original brand that was created in Thailand by Blake Dinkin.
- Golden Elephant Coffee – This brand is also produced in Thailand and is made using a similar process as Black Ivory Coffee.
- Elephant Dung Coffee – This brand is produced in India and uses beans that have been excreted by wild elephants.
- Upcycled Coffee – This brand is produced in Thailand and uses beans that have been collected from the dung of elephants that are part of a conservation project.
It’s important to note that elephant poop coffee is a rare and expensive product, and consumers should be cautious when purchasing it to ensure that they are getting a genuine product from a reputable source.
Conclusion
Elephant poop coffee is a unique and highly sought-after coffee that has gained popularity in recent years. While it may not be for everyone, it is an excellent example of how innovation and creativity can lead to new and exciting products. Whether you are a coffee enthusiast or not, elephant poop coffee is an intriguing brew that is worth trying at least once.