Black Ivory Coffee

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Black Ivory coffee beans

Black Ivory Coffee is a brand of coffee produced by the Black Ivory Coffee Company Ltd. in northern Thailand. It is one of the most expensive and rarest coffees in the world, known for its unique production process involving elephants.

Production Process

The production of Black Ivory Coffee involves feeding Thai Arabica coffee beans to elephants. The beans are mixed with the elephants' food and pass through their digestive system. The beans are then collected from the elephants' feces, cleaned, and processed. The digestive enzymes of the elephants are believed to break down the proteins in the coffee beans, which are responsible for the coffee's bitterness, resulting in a smoother taste.

History

Black Ivory Coffee was created by Blake Dinkin, a Canadian entrepreneur, in 2012. The idea was inspired by the production of civet coffee, which involves a similar process using civets. Dinkin collaborated with the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation to develop the coffee and ensure the ethical treatment of the elephants involved in the process.

Flavor Profile

Black Ivory Coffee is known for its smooth, rich flavor with notes of chocolate, malt, spice, and a hint of grass. The unique fermentation process in the elephants' stomachs is said to impart a distinctive taste that sets it apart from other coffees.

Price and Availability

Due to the labor-intensive production process and the limited availability of beans, Black Ivory Coffee is one of the most expensive coffees in the world. It is primarily sold to luxury hotels and high-end restaurants, though it can also be purchased directly from the Black Ivory Coffee Company.

Ethical Considerations

The production of Black Ivory Coffee raises ethical questions regarding the treatment of elephants. The Black Ivory Coffee Company claims to prioritize the welfare of the elephants, working with the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation to ensure that the animals are well cared for and not exploited.

See Also

• Civet coffee
• Arabica coffee
• Elephant conservation
• Luxury goods

Related Pages

• Coffee production
• Gourmet coffee
• Ethical consumerism
• Animal welfare