As climate change is affecting harvesting and cropping patterns of all agriculture produce, coffee growers too are facing challenges.
Researchers are developing climate-resilient coffee types as a solution to the problem. The Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) in Kodag’s Center for Excellence is focusing on four wild varietals that have been found to be adaptable to climate change.
The species identified are — Coffea stenophylla, Coffea racemosa, Coffea liberica and Coffea excelsa.
Tasters found that Coffea stenophylla and Coffea arabica taste similar. This has sparked hopes that customers would soon have access to new options that are climate resilient.
New coffee varities will have to be blended
Researchers discovered historical data supporting Robusta’s taste and texture equality with Coffea stenophylla during their study.
“If all goes according to plan, customers will soon have access to a new selection of coffee that is climate resilient,” said Jeena Devasia, Divisional Head, Plant Breeding and Genetics, CCRI, Chettahalli substation.
According to researchers, wild variations can be found throughout India. Some grow naturally as trees in the Himalayan region as well.
“In India, the area under coffee cultivation is gradually expanding,” Jeena continued.
Tasters and dealers explained the pros and corns as well stating that because consumers have a certain taste that fits their platter, it could be hard for them to embrace the new kind right once.
Less pesticides are required for the new types, which are climate resilient.
In nature, they are more sweet and less acidic. In fact, some are less bitter and even delicious in flavor.
In order to satisfy consumer demand, Coffee Board officials stated that these kinds will need to be mixed when they are introduced to the domestic market.
Around 120 recognized and accepted coffee types exist worldwide, according to experts. Research and quality reviews determine what should be added to and removed from the list. .
Taste testing must be conducted frequently as customer preferences change in order to ensure that these new types are accepted domestically.
Karnataka is pushing for climate-resilient cultivars in an effort to maintain sustainable coffee growing in the face of environmental difficulties.
Date : 21 to 25 Oct 2024 (5 Days)
Time : 07:00 PM – 10:00 PM
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