290 : Coffee Connections in Central Africa w/ Keith White Jr of Paraiso Trading

Today we get to explore the ever growing Central African coffee farming industry with some one who's company is creating inroads, resources, and opportunities to improve farmers lives and the global demand for their product. Keith White Jr. is the founder of Paraiso Trading. Paraiso Trading was created to connect Central African Farmers and their high quality organic produce directly to world markets. The company initially focuses on organically produced Coffee, and Cocoa. However as it grows and adds more farmers to the network it will expand the product portfolio. Working with women farmers, as well as priding ourselves on only working with farms and Cooperatives that we have actually visited and exceed our social and transparency standards in accordance with those required to be apart of the global economy. They work hard to promote the product at a higher price, work with farm owners and managers to assist in obtaining certifications, educate farmers and others on the benefits of improved sustainability and environmental consciousness, as well as educating consumers on the history behind their cups of coffee and who is producing it. Having grown up the son of a sharecropper in the south and a farmer himself, company owner Keith White has lived the frustration of growing some of the highest quality products on the market yet still struggling to make a living while others became wealthy from the very same product. We aim to be a part of the change happening in the specialty coffee industry! In our conversation today we talk all about how the company was founded, the opportunities, challenges, and needs associated with bringing central African farming to the greater market, and what we need to know about what goes on behind the scenes in getting providing a stable and thriving life for farmers. We cover: Getting started in coffee and founding pqraiso Finding the potential and ways to help farmers in Cbetral Africa Brining the coffee to market Partnering with farmers Certifications and the role they play What goes into creating stability for farming communities Importance of organic and responsible farming Helping shift methods Improving land management Addressing concerns about supply Links: www.paraisotrading.com Related episodes to listen to next: 288 : The Truth behind Cheap Coffee w/ Karl Weinhold 103 : The Colombian Coffee Connection w/ Ervin Liz 078 : Exploring Green Buying and Sensory Analysis w/ Amanda Juris 265 : Gaining Clarity on Transparency w/ Jonas Lorenz of The Pledge Visit our sponsors! www.prima-coffee.com/keys www.pacficfoodservice.com www.coffeefest.com