NEW TECH FOODS

Nespresso is set to be the first global coffee brand to bring Rainforest Alliance certified regenerative coffee to market, with products set to launch in 2026.

The announcement follows the Rainforest Alliance’s release of its new Regenerative Agriculture Standard earlier this month. The framework sets out requirements for farms adopting practices such as planting shade trees, restoring soils and protecting biodiversity, methods aimed at building climate resilience while improving farmer livelihoods.

Coffee production is increasingly under threat from rising temperatures, erratic rainfall and crop disease. Advocates say regenerative methods not only safeguard yields but can also enhance the flavour of arabica beans, which are particularly sensitive to climate disruption.

The first coffees under the new certification will come from farms in Costa Rica and Mexico, including that of Yamileth Chacón, who said she has already seen tangible benefits: “By working with the trees, you see more foliage, more green and more animals.”

The new seal will start appearing on Nespresso products in 2026, with the company describing the move as a milestone in its long-standing partnership with the Rainforest Alliance.

Santiago Gowland, Rainforest Alliance CEO, said: "Rooted in four decades of experience in sustainable agriculture, our new Regenerative Agriculture Standard combines scientific rigor with proven regenerative practices tailored to specific crops and regions".

"Our goal is to accelerate the transition to a new model of agriculture – one that helps protect, restore and regenerate the ecosystems on which we all depend. The new seal will help consumers support this transition by identifying certified products from farms adopting regenerative methods. For farmers, it offers recognised external validation for their efforts, greater market access and enhanced value for their coffee – while supporting a more resilient future for both people and nature."

Jérôme Perez, head of sustainability at Nespresso, commented: "We're proud to be the first brand to source Rainforest Alliance Certified Regenerative coffee. It's a symbol of our commitment to building balanced, resilient, yet productive landscapes within our supply chain, which is essential if we're to protect the future of the world's quality coffees and the communities which depend on them."

"I hope this consumer-facing seal will encourage other brands to support coffee farmers in a wide-scale regenerative transition, while also enabling consumers to become more aware of the benefits of purchasing products sourced from farms that have implemented regenerative agriculture practices"

Carlos Oyanguren, president of Nespresso Canada, added: "The new Rainforest Alliance Regenerative certification offers Canadian consumers a tangible way to support coffee that not only delivers exceptional taste, but also preserves the landscapes and ecosystems where it's grown with care."

"This milestone reflects our long-standing commitment to sustainable and responsible sourcing practices, while empowering farmers to build long-term resilience. It's a powerful step forward in recognizing the value of regenerative practices in the coffee industry."