Kona farmers want more coffee labeling details

Kona coffee growers want Hawaii law to require coffee sellers to provide more details on packages of coffee blends that contain Hawaii-grown beans.

Currently, coffee blends sold in the state that contain Hawaii-grown coffee must disclose what percentage— at least 10 percent — is grown in the islands. The Kona Coffee Farmers Association said Thursday they want the state Legislature to consider a bill they've drafted that would also identify where the remainder of the blend is grown.

An example of a package label would read, "90 percent Panamanian coffee, 10 percent Kona coffee."

Hawaii is the only place in the United States where coffee is grown. Coffee aficionados pay a premium for coffee grown in farms in the Kona district, known for its rich volcanic soil and tropical climate.

From: siouxcityjournal.com