All about the SCA (Specialty Coffee Association)

Everything you need to know about the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA)

In the world of specialty coffee , one name comes up often: the Specialty Coffee Association ( SCA ). For many, the SCA is largely unknown, but its work has been and continues to be very important in setting standards for specialty coffee, conducting research and education, and providing support to everyone involved in the quality coffee production chain.

In this post, we're going to talk about what the SCA is, its history, and its work so that the next time you see this acronym, you won't have any doubts.

What is the Specialty Coffee Association?

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is an international non-profit organization that brings together coffee industry professionals and enthusiasts from around the world to promote and improve the quality of specialty coffee at all stages, from cultivation to consumption.

The Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) was established in 1982 by a small group of coffee professionals seeking a common forum to discuss issues and establish quality standards. The Specialty Coffee Association of Europe (SCAE) was formed at a meeting of representatives from the European coffee community in London in 1998.

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is the result of the 2017 merger of the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) and the Specialty Coffee Association of Europe (SCAE). The SCA has more than 60,000 members in over 100 countries. SCA members include baristas, cafes, roasters, distributors, importers, exporters, producers, and other coffee professionals.

The SCA's mission is to "cultivate a global community of coffee professionals who inspire and support the growth of specialty coffee." The SCA accomplishes this goal through a variety of programs and resources.

Why is SCA important for specialty coffee?

The importance of the SCA lies in its role as an international transactional organization representing the specialty coffee industry. The SCA aims to elevate the quality of specialty coffee and promote its consumption worldwide. The SCA does this through a variety of activities, including education, research, and certification.

The SCA is important for several reasons. First, the SCA helps ensure that specialty coffee is grown, harvested, processed, and roasted to high quality standards. Second, the SCA helps promote specialty coffee consumption by educating the public about its benefits. Third, the SCA helps develop new markets for specialty coffee, benefiting farmers, roasters, and retailers worldwide.

SCA Definition of Specialty Coffee

Although the SCA itself acknowledges that there is no exact definition of what specialty coffee is, it does offer an approximation.

The SCA defines specialty coffee as coffee that is obtained from selected coffee beans, expertly processed and roasted, and that has a clean and complex flavor.

Specialty coffee must score at least 80 points on a 100-point scale and meet certain quality criteria, such as absence of defects, uniform roasting level, and balanced flavor.

To establish a reliable and recurring scoring model, in addition to ensuring the quality of all steps in the production chain, the SCA carries out a series of activities to propose standards.

Main activities of the SCA

This list, which we will expand later, will give you a general overview of the SCA's activities :

• Standards and Certifications : The SCA has established rigorous standards for coffee quality in various aspects, such as sustainable cultivation, bean grading, barista skills, and coffee equipment. They offer certification programs, such as the Specialty Coffee Certification Program and the Barista Certification Program, to promote excellence in the industry.
• Events : The SCA organizes major events in the coffee industry, such as the SCA Specialty Coffee Expo and the World Barista Championship, where the world's best baristas compete for the title of world champion.
• Research and Education : The association promotes research and education in the specialty coffee industry. It provides resources, publications, workshops, and training for its members and the general public to improve coffee quality and sustainability.
• Advocacy : The SCA advocated for policies that support the specialty coffee industry, such as fair trade and sustainability.

SCA Standards and Certifications

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) has several standards and certification programs related to different aspects of the specialty coffee industry. These standards and certifications seek to promote quality, sustainability, and professionalism at all levels of the coffee production and supply chain. Some of the SCA's key standards and certification programs include:

• Specialty Coffee Certification Program (Coffee Quality Institute - CQI): This program focuses on coffee quality and is designed to evaluate and certify specialty coffees that meet certain quality criteria. Coffees that achieve certain scores in terms of flavor, aroma, acidity, body, and other attributes can receive "Specialty Coffee" certification.
• Barista Certification Program (Barista Guild): The SCA offers a certification program for baristas who wish to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in coffee preparation. The program includes different levels of certification, from Basic to Master, and covers aspects such as espresso preparation, latte art, coffee cupping, and knowledge of the coffee supply chain.
• Roaster Guild Certification Program : This program is designed for coffee roasters and assesses their skills in the roasting process. Roasters can earn certifications at various levels, demonstrating their ability to roast coffee consistently and to a high quality.
• Sustainable Coffee Program : The SCA promotes sustainable farming practices through this certification program. It focuses on producing coffee in an environmentally responsible, socially just, and economically viable manner.

The Specialty Coffee Certification Program

The Specialty Coffee Certification Program aims to evaluate and recognize exceptional coffee quality.

This program is administered by the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) , an SCA partner organization. Coffees that meet certain quality standards and achieve high scores in cupping tests can receive "Specialty Coffee" certification.

The certification process involves coffees being evaluated by certified cuppers according to Q Cupping Protocols, a standardized method for objectively assessing coffee's sensory attributes.

Q Cupping Protocols analyze attributes such as flavor, aroma, acidity, body, balance, and other elements that contribute to the overall quality of coffee.

The Barista Certification Program (Barista Guild)

The SCA Barista Certification Program is designed to elevate the level of baristas' skills and knowledge in coffee preparation and presentation. The program offers several certification levels, each of which assesses various skills related to the art of preparing and serving coffee.

1. Basic Level : At this level, baristas acquire fundamental knowledge of coffee, grinding, espresso preparation, and milk texturization. They also learn how to maintain equipment and ensure brewing quality.
2. Intermediate Level : At this level, baristas deepen their preparation skills and learn advanced techniques, such as latte art, the use of different extraction methods, and time management when preparing coffee.
3. Advanced Level : At this level, baristas demonstrate a high level of skill and knowledge in coffee preparation and service. They must complete practical and theoretical assessments to earn this certification.

Roaster Guild Certification Program:

The Roaster Certification Program aims to assess the skills and knowledge of coffee roasters . This program focuses on the roasting process, which is crucial for developing coffee flavors and aromas.

1. Basic Level : At this level, roasters learn the fundamental concepts of roasting, including the influence of process variables on coffee flavor profiles.
2. Intermediate Level : At this level, roasters deepen their understanding of the roasting processes and acquire practical skills to roast coffee consistently and to a high quality.
3. Advanced Level : At this level, roasters must demonstrate mastery in assessing roasted coffee quality, troubleshooting, and managing commercial roasteries.

Sustainable Coffee Certification Program:

The Sustainable Coffee Certification Program seeks to promote sustainable agricultural practices in coffee production . The SCA is committed to sustainability and social responsibility in the coffee industry, and this program encourages the adoption of practices that have a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

The criteria for obtaining this certification include aspects such as proper management of natural resources, protection of biodiversity, worker safety and well-being, gender equality, compliance with labor laws and social standards, among others.

SCA's most important events

The SCA also plays an important role in organizing key events in the specialty coffee industry. These events are opportunities for coffee professionals, enthusiasts, and companies to meet, share knowledge, showcase innovative products and technologies, and celebrate the passion for coffee.

These are some of the most notable events that the SCA has organized in the past and continues to organize:

SCA Specialty Coffee Expo

It's the SCA's largest event and one of the most important in the specialty coffee industry . The Specialty Coffee Expo brings together thousands of people, including baristas, roasters, farmers, importers, exporters, suppliers, and other coffee-related professionals.

The fair offers a variety of trade shows where companies can showcase their coffee-related products, equipment, and services. It also includes workshops, conferences, and panel discussions on a variety of topics, including industry trends, brewing methods, sustainability, innovation, and more.

Additionally, during the Expo, competitions such as the World Barista Championship, the Brewers Cup World Championship, and the World Latte Art Championship are held , where the world's best baristas compete for titles.

World Barista Championship

The World Barista Championship. This event brings together the best baristas from different countries to compete in a series of rounds in which they must prepare and serve espresso and milk-based drinks to a panel of judges.

Competitors are judged on the quality of their drinks, their technical skills, their latte art, their coffee knowledge, and their ability to deliver an exceptional customer experience. The winner becomes the World Barista Champion and is recognized as a leader in the coffee industry.

World Brewers Cup

The World Filter Brewing Championship: This event focuses on brewing filter coffee using a variety of methods, including the V60, Chemex, AeroPress, and more.

Competitors present carefully selected specialty coffees prepared to highlight the unique characteristics of the beans. Judges evaluate the brewed coffee's clarity, flavor, acidity, sweetness, and other aspects. The winner becomes the Brewers Cup World Champion.

World Latte Art Championship

The World Latte Art Championship. This event tests baristas' skills in creating stunning artistic designs on milk-based beverages such as cappuccinos and lattes.

Competitors demonstrate their latte pouring skills, creating eye-catching patterns and designs. Judges evaluate the quality and complexity of the designs, as well as their technical precision. The winner becomes the World Latte Art Champion.

In total, the SCA organizes seven world championships, plus three more: World Coffee in Good Spirits, World Cup Tasters, World Coffee Roasting, and the World Cezve/Ibrik. All of these championships have local and national qualifying editions. In addition to these events, the SCA organizes many others to promote specialty coffee.

Specialty coffee education and promotion initiatives

The Specialty Coffee Association has developed several educational projects to promote knowledge and training in the specialty coffee industry . These projects are designed to train coffee professionals and enthusiasts in various aspects, from production and processing to preparation and service. Some of the SCA's most notable educational projects include:

• SCA Coffee Skills Program : This is a comprehensive education and training program that covers a wide range of coffee-related topics. It is designed for those who want to develop their skills in different areas of the coffee industry. The program is divided into several modules, each focusing on specific aspects, such as coffee growing, roasting, espresso preparation, cupping, and more. Participants can follow different learning paths and earn certifications based on their interests and goals.
• Sensory Summit : This educational project focuses on improving cupping skills and sensory appreciation of coffee. The Sensory Summit brings together expert cuppers, roasters, and coffee professionals to explore how sensory aspects influence coffee quality and flavor. Participants can take part in practical workshops and lectures on cupping and analyzing coffee flavor profiles.
• Sustainability Webinars : The SCA hosts webinars addressing sustainability issues in the coffee industry. These webinars feature sustainable research and practices, as well as initiatives to promote social and environmental responsibility throughout the coffee supply chain.
• Coffee Roasters Guild Retreat : This educational project focuses on the training and professional development of coffee roasters. During the Coffee Roasters Guild Retreat, roasters can participate in practical and theoretical activities related to the roasting process, flavor profile analysis, and other skills relevant to their work.

These are just a few examples of the Specialty Coffee Association's educational projects. The SCA constantly strives to provide learning and development opportunities for coffee professionals and enthusiasts, with the goal of raising quality standards throughout the industry and promoting knowledge and appreciation of specialty coffee.

The SCA Coffee Skills program

The SCA offers a program called the "Coffee Skills Program." This program is designed to provide a standardized educational structure for those who wish to improve their skills in the specialty coffee industry.

The Coffee Skills Program is divided into different modules, each focusing on a specific area of ​​coffee-related knowledge and skills. These modules are grouped into four main pathways:

• Introduction to Coffee: This tour is designed for those who want to learn the basics of coffee, such as growing, processing, roasting, brewing, and cupping.
• Barista Skills: This course focuses on the coffee preparation process and the skills needed to become a professional barista. It covers extraction techniques, milk frothing, coffee drink preparation, and latte art, among other topics.
• Brewing: This tour explores the diverse methods of coffee brewing, including filter, French press, AeroPress, and more.
• Roasting: This route focuses on the coffee roasting process and how it affects the flavor and quality of the coffee.

Each path is divided into different skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Courses are designed to progress students from the Foundation level to the Intermediate level and finally the Professional level within each path.

The goal of the SCA Coffee Skills Program is to provide a standard of quality and knowledge in the specialty coffee industry , ensuring that coffee professionals have the skills necessary to deliver a high-quality customer experience.

It also allows participants to obtain internationally recognized certifications in each of the pathways and levels, which can benefit their professional development and job opportunities in the coffee industry.

The SCA also carries out research tasks

The SCA is also committed to promoting and developing research in the specialty coffee industry. Through its research, the SCA seeks to better understand the different aspects of coffee, from its cultivation and processing to its preparation and consumption, with the goal of improving coffee quality and promoting sustainable practices throughout the supply chain.

Some areas of research the SCA has been involved in include:

• Coffee Flavor Profiles: The SCA has conducted research to understand the different flavor profiles that can be found in coffee, depending on factors such as coffee origin, crop varieties, roasting process, and brewing methods. This research helps coffee professionals understand how different factors influence the final flavor of the beverage and how they can highlight the unique characteristics of each coffee.
• Sustainability in Coffee Growing: The SCA has conducted studies on sustainable coffee growing practices, including responsible agricultural practices, soil conservation, water management, and waste reduction. This research seeks to promote environmental and social sustainability in coffee-growing communities.
• Impact of the Roasting Process : The SCA has investigated how the roasting process affects coffee quality and flavor. These studies help roasters understand how to adjust their roasting profiles to highlight the desired characteristics of coffee beans.
• Brewing Equipment Evaluation: The SCA has conducted research to evaluate the performance of different coffee brewing equipment, such as espresso machines, grinders, and other devices used in coffee shops and homes. This research helps consumers and coffee professionals make informed decisions about which equipment best suits their needs and expectations.
• Impact of Water on Coffee Preparation : The quality of the water used in coffee preparation can have a significant impact on the final flavor of the beverage. The SCA has investigated how different water characteristics, such as mineral content and pH, affect coffee extraction and flavor.

These are just a few examples of the research areas the Specialty Coffee Association has been working on to improve the quality and sustainability of specialty coffee.

Advocacy for specialty coffee interests

Advocacy is an important part of the SCA's work to represent and promote the interests of its members and the industry at large . Some of the key advocacy areas in which the SCA has been involved include:

Sustainability advocacy : The SCA has championed more sustainable practices throughout the coffee supply chain, from cultivation to consumption. This includes supporting sustainable agricultural practices, promoting fair and equitable trade practices, and fostering environmental and biodiversity conservation.

Access to Fair Markets: The SCA has worked to promote access to fair and transparent markets for specialty coffee producers. This involves advocating for fair prices for farmers and fostering ethical and responsible business relationships within the industry.

Promoting Coffee Quality : The SCA has championed the promotion of quality and excellence in specialty coffee. This includes establishing and promoting quality standards in coffee production, roasting, and preparation.

Support for education and training: The SCA has advocated for access to high-quality education and training in the coffee industry. This includes developing educational programs, promoting apprenticeship opportunities, and disseminating knowledge within the coffee community.

Influencing Policy and Regulation : The SCA has worked to influence policies and regulations affecting the coffee industry. This may include issues related to international trade, environmental sustainability, labor rights protection, and other areas impacting industry players.

The SCA collaborates with other industry stakeholders, including government organizations, businesses, and civil society groups, to effectively address these issues and represent the interests of the coffee community worldwide.

How the SCA benefits coffee producers at origin

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) benefits coffee producers at origin in several ways.

Promoting Coffee Quality: The SCA is an advocate for specialty coffee quality. By promoting quality standards and providing certification programs like the Specialty Coffee Certification Program, the SCA creates incentives for producers at origin to strive to produce high-quality coffee. High-quality coffees generally fetch better market prices, which can improve producers' incomes and economic sustainability.

Access to information and knowledge: The SCA offers a wealth of coffee information and resources, including publications, research, workshops, conferences, and educational programs. This information is accessible to all members, including coffee producers at origin, providing them with the opportunity to learn about the latest trends, sustainable agricultural practices, processing techniques, and other relevant topics to improve their coffee production and quality.

Events and Networking: The SCA organizes events such as the SCA Specialty Coffee Expo and the Sensory Summit, which offer producers the opportunity to connect with other industry professionals, roasters, buyers, and coffee experts. These events allow for knowledge sharing, the identification of new business opportunities, and the building of valuable business relationships.

Sustainability work: The SCA promotes sustainable coffee farming practices and social responsibility in the coffee industry. This may include encouraging environmentally friendly agricultural practices, supporting Fair Trade certification, and other initiatives that benefit producers at origin and local communities.

Participation in the value chain: The SCA involves all actors in the coffee supply chain, including producers at origin. By being part of a global community of coffee professionals, producers have the opportunity to share their perspectives and challenges, and contribute to the development of policies and practices that affect the industry.

It's important to note that the SCA works in collaboration with other organizations and industry stakeholders to achieve a significant impact for coffee producers at origin. Its focus on quality, sustainability, and education contributes to improving conditions and opportunities for producers in coffee-growing regions around the world.

How the SCA benefits specialty coffee roasters

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) benefits specialty coffee roasters in several ways, as it is an organization that seeks to promote excellence throughout the coffee supply chain, including the roasting process.

Some ways the SCA benefits specialty coffee roasters include:

Quality Standards and Certification: The SCA has established rigorous standards for specialty coffee quality, including the roasting process. Through its Roaster Guild Certification Program, the SCA provides a pathway for roasters to demonstrate their skill and knowledge in coffee roasting. By achieving certification, roasters can distinguish themselves in the industry and demonstrate their commitment to quality and excellence.

Education and Training: The SCA offers a wide range of education and training opportunities for coffee roasters. Through the SCA Coffee Skills Program, roasters can access courses and workshops covering technical aspects of roasting, including roast profiles, flavor development, and quality management. Continuing education helps roasters improve their skills and knowledge and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and practices.

Community Access and Networking: The SCA organizes events and conferences where roasters can connect with other industry professionals, share experiences, learn from experts, and build valuable business relationships. Events like the SCA Specialty Coffee Expo provide a platform for roasters to showcase their products and connect with potential customers and business partners.

Research and Resources: The SCA conducts research and publishes resources on the roasting process and other topics relevant to roasters. These resources help roasters improve their practices and better understand how they affect coffee flavor and quality.

Advocacy: The SCA advocates for the interests of the specialty coffee industry, including roasters. By engaging in advocacy activities, the SCA can influence policies and regulations affecting the coffee trade and the roasting process.

Overall, the SCA provides valuable support and resources to specialty coffee roasters , helping them improve their skills, promote coffee quality, and strengthen their position in the coffee industry.

How SCA benefits specialty coffee consumers

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) benefits specialty coffee consumers in several ways, as it works to promote quality, excellence, and sustainability throughout the coffee supply chain .

Some of the ways the SCA benefits specialty coffee consumers include:

Quality Standards: The SCA has established rigorous standards for specialty coffee quality, from cultivation and processing to preparation and service. By following these standards, roasters and baristas can deliver high-quality, consistent coffees, ensuring that consumers receive quality products with exceptional flavor.

Consumer Education: The SCA works to educate consumers about specialty coffee, its characteristics, varieties, regions of origin, and production processes. Through educational materials, events, and workshops, the SCA helps consumers better understand the world of specialty coffee and appreciate its diverse flavors and aromas.

Events and Festivals: The SCA organizes events like the SCA Specialty Coffee Expo, where consumers have the opportunity to sample a wide variety of specialty coffees from different roasters and regions. These events allow consumers to experience new flavors, learn about different brewing methods, and connect with industry roasters and baristas.

Promoting Sustainability: The SCA advocates for sustainable coffee farming practices and social responsibility throughout the coffee supply chain. By choosing coffees that meet sustainability standards, consumers can support responsible practices and contribute to the well-being of producers and the environment.

Access to information and resources: The SCA provides valuable information for consumers on topics such as coffee traceability, producer history, and roasting practices. These resources help consumers make informed decisions about which coffee to buy and understand the story behind their cups of coffee.

Overall, the Specialty Coffee Association plays a pivotal role in elevating the quality and appreciation of specialty coffee by educating consumers and providing resources that enable them to enjoy a richer coffee experience.

By promoting high-quality and sustainable practices in the coffee industry, the SCA contributes to improving the consumer experience and strengthening the value of specialty coffee in the global marketplace.