What is a Coffee Belt?

The coffee belt is a term used to describe coffee-producing regions around the world. Located between the 23rd and 25th latitudes north and south of the equator, these regions have ideal climatic conditions for coffee plants to grow. These regions, which have tropical and subtropical climates, produce high-quality coffee beans thanks to the balance of temperature and precipitation throughout the year.

Features of Coffee Belt

The coffee belt provides certain climate and soil conditions necessary for the development of the coffee plant. Here are some of the key features of this belt:

1. Climate: The coffee plant likes temperate climates and generally grows best in temperatures between 15-24°C. Therefore, tropical and subtropical climates are ideal for coffee cultivation. Also, regions that receive regular rainfall throughout the year meet the water needs of the coffee plant.

2. Altitude: The coffee plant typically grows at altitudes between 600 and 2000 meters above sea level. Coffee beans grown at higher altitudes offer more intense and complex flavor profiles.

3. Soil: The coffee plant thrives in well-drained, organic matter-rich soil. Volcanic soils provide ideal nutrients for the coffee plant and contribute to the healthy growth of the plant.

Major Producing Countries in the Coffee Belt

The coffee belt encompasses many countries on different continents of the world. The coffee beans produced in these regions offer a variety of flavor and aroma profiles. Here are the major coffee producing countries in the coffee belt:

1. Central and South America:

• Brazil: The world's largest coffee producer, Brazil produces large quantities of coffee thanks to its vast territory and favorable climate. Brazilian coffees often contain notes of chocolate, hazelnut, and caramel.
• Colombia: Colombian coffees are grown at high altitudes, offering balanced and complex flavor profiles. They are known for their citrus and fruity aromas.
• Costa Rica: Costa Rican coffees are renowned for their bright acidity and clean flavor profiles, with floral and fruity notes.

2. Africa:

• Ethiopia: Known as the homeland of coffee, Ethiopia offers a rich and diverse coffee profile, known for its floral, fruity and spicy flavors.
• Kenya: Kenyan coffees are renowned for their high acidity and bright fruity flavours, with notes of blackcurrant and citrus.

3. Asia:

• Vietnam: Vietnam, the world's second largest coffee producer, is especially known for its robusta coffee beans, which offer intense and strong flavors.
• Indonesia: Produced in regions such as Sumatra and Java, Indonesian coffees are known for their low acidity and earthy, spicy flavor profiles.