Early History and Origins of Coffee
Coffee was first cultivated in China by Emperor Shen Nung in 2700 BCE. Coffee originated in Ethiopia, and the coffee plant spread across the world from there. The first record of coffee growing in India is following the introduction of coffee beans from Yemen by Baba Budan to the hills of Chikmagalur, Karnataka in 1670.
Major Coffee Producers
Brazil is the largest coffee producer, followed by Vietnam, Colombia, and Indonesia. Coffee arrived in Indonesia in the 17th century from India. Colombia is probably the world’s best-known coffee producer and ranks second worldwide in yearly production.
Coffee’s Global Impact
Central America, South America, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East all have the warm environment and fertile land necessary to grow coffee. Coffee grown worldwide can trace its heritage back centuries to the ancient coffee forests on the Ethiopian plateau. From there, over the years, coffee beans migrated to South East Asia, Central, and South America.
Coffee Production and Cultivation
Coffee plants are typically grown from seeds or seedlings in dedicated coffee farms. It requires specific conditions, including a tropical climate, altitude, and well-drained soil. The plants are carefully nurtured; it takes several years to reach maturity before producing coffee cherries. Coffee’s popularity spread worldwide thanks to the various trade routes established throughout history.