Celebrating Black Coffee Culture
It’s no secret that I simply adore coffee! It gets me through my work day, and I especially enjoy those extra cups on the weekends. My love for this brew runs so deep that I recently became fascinated by the journey of the bean, from its origins to its place as a cherished part of so many lives.
According to the National Coffee Association, coffee’s journey began in Ethiopia, where its energizing effects were first discovered. It then traveled to Yemen and eventually spread across the globe. This global expansion did come at a significant cost. The rise of coffee plantations in the Americas was tragically intertwined with the transatlantic slave trade. Millions of enslaved Africans were forcibly brought to these lands and endured unfavorable conditions, their labor fueling the coffee industry. It was their labor that built the foundation of a global trade. It’s essential to acknowledge this difficult history to fully understand the story of coffee and honor the immense contributions and suffering of those who were enslaved.
Today, a beautiful shift has taken place. Black entrepreneurs, roasters, and baristas are not only reclaiming their place in the coffee industry but are also shaping its future. They are creating unique coffee experiences, fostering community, and showcasing Black excellence. From innovative roasting techniques to welcoming cafes that celebrate culture, they are writing a new chapter in the story of coffee—one of empowerment, creativity, and delicious brews. They play a significant role in shaping the coffee industry today.
Black-owned coffee shops often put extra love and care into every step of their brewing process, from sourcing the finest ingredients to perfecting their unique techniques. This attention to detail also extends to something you might not think about: ensuring their coffee stays naturally gluten-free. Coffee beans are indeed naturally gluten-free, however it’s worth noting a few potential ways gluten could inadvertently find its way into your cup: processing, flavorings and additives, and grinding.
Coffee beans may be processed in facilities that also handle gluten-containing grains. This could lead to cross-contamination. Some flavored coffees or coffee products (like instant coffee mixes or creamers) may contain gluten. If coffee beans are ground in a shared grinder (like at a grocery store), there’s a risk of cross-contamination if the grinder was previously used for something containing gluten.
For those of you who live a gluten-free lifestyle and rely on that perfect cup of coffee to power through your day, we’ve located a directory of Black-owned coffee shops. If you have a favorite spot that isn’t on the list, we’d love to hear about it! Just drop their name and website in the comments, and we’ll be sure to feature their barista here on the site.
The information shared here regarding our gluten-free lifestyle is based solely on our family’s experiences and should not be interpreted as representative of anyone else’s journey.
Discover Nolan’s Bakery & Eatery on our website! We’d love to hear from you – please contact us with any comments, questions, or suggestions.
