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Pre-export QA checks

This topic explains the key quality assurance (QA) checks performed before coffee export, ensuring that lots meet international standards for safety, consistency, and flavor integrity.

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  • Coffee Basics Nerds
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Article 12 of 12 in Drying, Conditioning & On-Farm Storage/
Pre-export QA checks

Why Pre-Export QA is Important

  • Coffee may have traveled through multiple post-harvest steps (drying, storage, milling).
  • Pre-export checks safeguard quality, food safety, and buyer confidence.
  • Prevents rejection at destination ports, which can be costly for producers.

Key QA Checks

1. Moisture & Water Activity

  • Confirm moisture is 10–12% and water activity 0.55–0.65.
  • Ensures stability during shipping.

2. Physical Inspection

  • Screen size grading and density sorting confirmed.
  • Defect count performed (SCA or ICO standards: e.g., <5 full defects/300g for specialty).
  • Check for foreign matter (stones, sticks, husks).

3. Cupping Evaluation

  • Pre-shipment samples roasted and cupped by certified Q graders.
  • Flavor, body, acidity, and aftertaste assessed.
  • Defects (phenolic, moldy, baggy) flagged for remediation.

4. Traceability & Documentation

  • Lot codes matched to records of origin, processing, and storage.
  • Certifications (Organic, Fairtrade, RA, etc.) verified.
  • Export paperwork aligned with QA results.

5. Packaging & Bag Checks

  • Verify integrity of jute or hermetic bags.
  • Inspect for holes, contamination, or odor absorption.
  • Pallets checked for cleanliness and fumigation compliance.

Remediation if Problems Found

  • Re-cleaning via optical sorters or density tables.
  • Re-drying if moisture too high.
  • Re-cupping to confirm corrections.
  • Segregating or downgrading lots if defects cannot be fixed.

Benefits of Pre-Export QA

  • Ensures coffee arrives at buyers in stable, high-quality condition.
  • Strengthens trust and relationships with importers.
  • Reduces economic risk of rejections or discounts.

Lasting Importance

Pre-export QA checks act as the final safeguard in coffee’s post-harvest journey. By systematically verifying physical, sensory, and safety standards, producers and exporters secure market access and protect the reputation of their coffee.

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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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