The Amazing Journey of Coffee Beans – From Ethiopia to Your Morning Cup
Hello everyone! Today, Unilever.edu.vn will take you on a fascinating journey, a flavorful story about the beverage that has captivated millions of hearts worldwide: coffee! Have you ever wondered about the incredible path those tiny coffee beans take to reach your morning cup? Let’s explore together!
From a Legend of a Monk and His Goats…
The story of coffee’s origins is shrouded in myth and legend. According to tradition, around the 7th century AD in Ethiopia, a goat herder named Kaldi noticed his goats acting strangely energetic and even… dancing after eating a type of red berry. These were coffee cherries! Kaldi shared his discovery with a monk who was seeking a way to stay awake during long nights of prayer. There are variations on this story, but the outcome remains the same: coffee was discovered! One version tells of the monk throwing the beans into a fire, and the captivating aroma that emerged opened a new chapter in human history.
…To a Global Coffee Empire
From Ethiopia, coffee began its conquest of the world. In the 15th century, it arrived in Yemen under the name “Mocha”—a name that still evokes images of premium coffee beans today. It quickly spread to Egypt, Persia, and Turkey, becoming known as the “wine of Arabia.” Coffee houses, called “Schools of the Wise,” sprang up, becoming centers of culture, social interaction, and intellectual discourse.
Arabia initially controlled the coffee trade, but the coffee plant didn’t stay confined to the Arabian Peninsula. It was introduced to Southern India, ushering in an era of large-scale coffee cultivation. By the 16th century, coffee had reached Europe and quickly gained popularity. Even Pope Clement VIII, initially believing coffee to be a satanic beverage, was won over by its deliciousness after tasting it and declared it a Christian drink!
With European colonization, coffee also journeyed to the Americas, beginning a new chapter in its history. From there, coffee cultivation spread across the globe, from the verdant hills of Brazil and Colombia to the cool highlands of Vietnam.
International Coffee Day: A Day of Appreciation
The popularity of coffee is not just due to its delicious taste but also its cultural and social significance. In 2014, the International Coffee Organization (ICO) officially designated October 1st as International Coffee Day, a celebration of this beloved beverage and an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges faced by coffee farmers worldwide.
This day is a chance to enjoy coffee, reflect on the long journey of those coffee beans from distant fields to our steaming mugs. It’s also a time to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the farmers who cultivate and nurture each coffee plant, bringing us the rich, flavorful coffee we enjoy. Furthermore, International Coffee Day encourages us at Unilever.edu.vn and you to learn about fair trade practices, ensuring that coffee farmers are treated fairly and receive a living wage.
The Taste of Coffee – More Than Just a Drink
Coffee is more than just a stimulant; it’s a cultural phenomenon, a catalyst for conversations, and a source of inspiration for art and creativity. The image of charming coffee shops, filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, has become an integral part of many people’s lives. A hot cup of coffee in the morning can energize you for the day ahead. In the afternoon, a milder brew can be the perfect companion for reading a book or listening to music. Coffee also serves as a connection between loved ones and friends.
Unilever.edu.vn believes that every cup of coffee holds a unique story, flavor, and emotion. Let’s appreciate and savor the amazing taste of coffee every day. And remember to choose coffee products with clear origins, ensuring quality and fairness for the farmers.
Happy International Coffee Day! Share your coffee stories with Unilever.edu.vn!