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Post-harvest handling SOPs

This topic explains the role of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in post-harvest handling of coffee, outlining best practices for consistency, quality control, and traceability.

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  • Coffee Basics Nerds
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Article 10 of 12 in Drying, Conditioning & On-Farm Storage/
Post-harvest handling SOPs

What Are SOPs?

  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are documented step-by-step instructions that standardize post-harvest handling.
  • They ensure all workers follow consistent methods, reducing errors and variability.

Why SOPs Matter in Coffee

  • Post-harvest is where most quality can be lost.
  • SOPs provide guidance, accountability, and repeatability.
  • Buyers increasingly require documented handling protocols for transparency.

Core SOP Areas

1. Harvesting

  • Pick only ripe cherries.
  • Reject underripes, overripe, and visibly defective fruit.

2. Reception & Sorting

  • Record lot details (farmer, variety, date).
  • Perform flotation sorting to remove low-density cherries.

3. Processing

  • Define exact steps for washed, natural, or honey methods.
  • Include time, temperature, pH, and mucilage management.

4. Drying

  • Specify bed thickness, turning frequency, and moisture targets.
  • Include weather mitigation steps.

5. Conditioning & Storage

  • Define resting period, warehouse climate, and pest control.
  • Set monitoring intervals for moisture and water activity.

6. Quality Control & Cupping

  • Establish checkpoints for sampling and defect screening.
  • Record cupping scores and feedback for process improvement.

7. Documentation & Traceability

  • Use logbooks or digital tools to track each step.
  • Assign lot codes to ensure identity preservation.

Benefits of SOPs

  • Consistency across harvests and workers.
  • Improved quality and reduced defect rates.
  • Compliance with certification and buyer requirements.
  • Training tool for new workers and cooperatives.

Challenges

  • Labor-intensive to train and enforce.
  • Requires literacy and discipline in remote farm settings.
  • Needs adaptation for different processing styles.

Lasting Importance

Post-harvest handling SOPs are a cornerstone of quality assurance in coffee. By documenting and standardizing every step from cherry to storage, producers safeguard quality, build buyer trust, and increase access to premium markets.

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Coffee Basics Nerds

Written by : Coffee Basics Nerds

Expert coffee historians and brewing enthusiasts dedicated to sharing the rich heritage and techniques behind your perfect cup of coffee.

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