Coffee and productivity have long gone hand in hand. A morning ritual, a mid-meeting essential, a trusted pick-me-up during that afternoon lull.

But beyond the comfort and familiarity of your favourite mug, does coffee truly sharpen our focus? Or is it all in our heads?

Let’s take a closer look at how caffeine works, when it works best, and why the quality of your brew might make more difference than you think.

The Subtle Science of Staying Alert

Caffeine affects the brain in surprisingly intricate ways. It works by blocking adenosine – a neurotransmitter that builds up in the body throughout the day, making us feel sleepy. When caffeine steps in, it slows that build-up, helping us feel more alert and switched on.

But what’s interesting is that caffeine doesn’t create energy, it simply changes how we perceive fatigue. This shift in perception can boost our mental clarity, reaction time and sustained attention – especially in moments where we might otherwise feel distracted or drained.

A 2021 study published in Nutrients noted that caffeine can enhance cognitive performance and mood — but the degree of benefit depends on a number of factors including timing, dose, and individual tolerance. In other words, the right amount at the right time can help you stay in flow, without overdoing it.

When to Sip for Maximum Focus

There’s a bit of an art to using caffeine for focus, and it starts with timing. Reaching for a coffee as soon as you wake up can feel comforting, but it may not be when your body needs it most. Natural cortisol levels are already high in the first hour after waking, so delaying your first cup slightly can help caffeine work more effectively.

The sweet spot? Typically 60–90 minutes after waking. And again in the early afternoon, when energy naturally dips. Just be mindful of sleep — for some people, caffeine lingers longer than expected. A late-afternoon espresso might seem harmless at the time, but could be why you’re staring at the ceiling at midnight.

Then there’s context. Coffee isn’t a silver bullet — it won’t solve poor sleep or power you through endless multitasking. But as part of a mindful routine, it can enhance your ability to focus deeply, switch between tasks smoothly, and stay engaged for longer.

Not All Coffee Is Created Equal

What you drink matters as much as when you drink it. Lower quality coffee can contain more bitterness, acidity and irregular caffeine levels – all of which can affect how your body responds. Over-roasted blends or stale supermarket grounds might provide a quick kick, but they’re less likely to deliver a balanced, long-lasting focus.

At Indigo Valley, we source premium Fairtrade beans and roast them in small batches for consistency, flavour and freshness. Whether you opt for a mellow filter or a bold espresso, each cup is crafted to deliver clarity – without compromise.

And if caffeine isn’t always your friend, our decaf capsules offer the same quality and care, minus the buzz.

Final Sip

So, does coffee help you focus? Yes, when it’s part of a balanced rhythm. Caffeine can support sharper thinking, better attention, and more sustained energy, especially when paired with rest, hydration and good food.

But it’s not just about the chemistry. The act of making a coffee, taking a pause, stepping away from the screen, engaging your senses…. That might be the very reset your mind needs.

At Indigo Valley, we believe great coffee doesn’t just taste good, it helps you feel good. And that includes those moments of clarity, presence, and purpose that come with the perfect cup.

Want to know more about B Corps? Visit bcorporation.uk
Explore our full range of Fairtrade, carbon-neutral coffees here

This year marks a special milestone for Indigo Valley: 20 years of sourcing, roasting, and serving ethical coffee.

What started as a small, values-driven idea in 2004 has grown into a thriving B2B coffee supplier, working with organisations, workplaces, cafés and community spaces all across the UK. Through every bean roasted and every partnership built, our mission has stayed the same – to make coffee better. Not just better tasting, but better traded, better produced, and better for people and planet.

As we celebrate two decades in business, we’re taking a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come, the values that have shaped our journey, and where we’re headed next.

Brewing with Purpose Since Day One

Indigo Valley began with a simple but powerful commitment: coffee should be fair.

In a time when ethical sourcing wasn’t standard practice, we chose to work exclusively with Fairtrade producers. We believed then – and still do today – that farmers and cooperatives deserve fair pay, transparency, and long-term relationships. Our commitment to Fairtrade helped form the foundation of our business, and continues to shape how we grow.

Over the years, our partnerships have extended beyond Fairtrade producers to include organisations like Compassion UK, where every cup brewed supports meaningful change in communities around the world. Whether it’s providing opportunity to growers or giving back through charitable initiatives, community has always been central to what we do.

A Carbon-Neutral Roastery, and Proud of It

In 2017, we became one of the UK’s first carbon neutral coffee roasteries. That wasn’t a trend, it was a deliberate decision to reduce our impact and create a more sustainable coffee industry.

Our roasting process uses advanced filtration and energy-efficient systems that capture over 94% of emissions before they ever reach the atmosphere. Whatever we can’t remove, we offset through certified carbon reduction projects, making sure every cup of Indigo Valley coffee is as kind to the planet as it is to your tastebuds.

We’ve also taken steps to reduce our packaging waste, streamline our delivery routes, and help our clients make more sustainable choices when brewing at home or in the workplace

Becoming a Certified B Corp

One of the highlights of our 20th year has been receiving B Corp Certification, a milestone that means a lot to us.

This certification officially recognises our commitment to ethical business practices, environmental responsibility, and social impact. It means we’ve been independently verified across everything from governance and sourcing to how we treat our team and how we care for the planet.

For our customers and partners, it’s an added layer of trust – a way to know that our values aren’t just something we talk about. They’re something we live by.

Read the full blog about our B Corp journey.

Final Sip

If there’s one thing we’ve learned over the past two decades, it’s this: people care.

Customers want to know where their coffee comes from. Organisations want to partner with suppliers who align with their values. And more than ever, there’s a growing demand for transparency, ethical sourcing, and meaningful impact — not just great marketing.

That’s why we’ve never compromised on the things that matter. Whether it’s through our subscription coffee service, our range of workplace machines, or our home brewing products, we’ve always focused on quality, consistency, and doing the right thing – for people and the planet.

None of this would have been possible without the people who’ve been part of the journey: our team, our producers, our partners, and of course, our customers. From small cafés to large offices, churches to community hubs – thank you for trusting us, championing ethical coffee, and sharing our values.

Want to know more about B Corps? Visit bcorporation.uk
Explore our full range of Fairtrade, carbon-neutral coffees here

We’re incredibly proud to share that Indigo Valley is now a Certified B Corporation.

After months of careful assessment, we’ve joined a global network of businesses that meet the highest verified standards of social and environmental responsibility. For us, this isn’t just a milestone. It’s a meaningful moment that reflects what we’ve stood for since the beginning.

Why B Corp?

Becoming a B Corp means committing to a better way of doing business. It’s not just about environmental practices or fair supply chains. It’s about putting people and planet at the heart of every decision.

To become certified, we went through a detailed review by B Lab, the non-profit behind the B Corp movement. Everything from our sourcing policies to our governance, packaging, carbon impact, and employee care was assessed. The process is transparent, evidence-based, and far from easy — which is exactly why it matters.

For us, it confirms that we’re not just talking about ethics and sustainability. We’re building a business around them.

How it Started

Indigo Valley began over 20 years ago with a clear belief: coffee should be better. Not just better tasting, but better traded, better sourced, and better for the world.

We started with a commitment to Fairtrade coffee, partnering with farmers and cooperatives that value fairness, transparency and long-term relationships. Back then, it wasn’t common to lead with ethics in business — but it’s always been our foundation.

Since then, we’ve grown from supplying small churches and charities to working with workplaces, cafés, and hospitality clients across the UK. Along the way, we’ve made sure our growth stayed aligned with our values.

In 2017, we became a carbon neutral roastery, thanks to a roasting process that captures over 94% of emissions before they’re released. What we can’t reduce, we offset through certified carbon projects.

It’s never been about being the biggest. It’s about being thoughtful, responsible, and consistent in how we work.

What B-corp means for our customers

For our customers and partners, this B Corp Certification gives you confidence that when you work with Indigo Valley, you’re supporting something real.

It means:

• All of our beans are ethically sourced, with Fairtrade certification leading the way.
  
• Our roasting, packaging and delivery practices are built around reducing environmental harm.
  
• We’re committed to honesty, transparency and fairness — in pricing, partnerships and service.
  
• We’re legally accountable to people and planet, not just profit.
  

B Corp certification shows that we’re not just setting high standards – we’re meeting them, and it’s been independently checked & verified.

Final Sip

Becoming a Certified B Corporation is something we’re incredibly proud of. But we don’t see it as the finish line.
We’ll keep finding ways to improve and innovate. We’ll keep making choices that reflect our values. And we’ll keep showing up with great-tasting coffee that does more than just fuel your morning.

As we approach our 20th anniversary, it feels like the right time to pause, reflect, and celebrate how far we’ve come. But also, to look forward.

Because for us, this is just the next step.

Thank you for being part of the journey.

Want to know more about B Corps? Visit bcorporation.uk
Explore our full range of Fairtrade, carbon-neutral coffees here

We all know that familiar comfort – the first sip of hot coffee in the morning, signalling the start of a new day. For many of us, it’s a daily ritual we’d rather not live without. But beyond the warmth and aroma, your morning brew may actually be doing you more good than you think.

Ethically sourced, well-roasted coffee offers more than a caffeine kick. From brain function to heart health, recent studies show that moderate coffee consumption can be linked to a number of physical and mental health benefits. Here’s how your cup of Indigo Valley coffee could be working harder for you, and why choosing sustainable beans matters just as much as what’s in the mug.

A Natural Source of Antioxidants

Coffee is one of the richest sources of antioxidants in the average diet. In fact, for some people, it’s the single greatest contributor. Antioxidants help protect the body’s cells against damage caused by free radicals, reducing inflammation and slowing the ageing process.

Compounds like chlorogenic acid, cafestol, and melanoidins, all found in coffee, play a role in reducing oxidative stress, which has been linked to chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. While fruits and vegetables remain the top source of diverse nutrients, your daily brew is doing a lot more than just keeping you alert.

And the fresher the roast, the better the benefit. That’s why at Indigo Valley, our coffee is roasted in small batches to retain its natural properties, while keeping sustainability at the heart of everything we do.

Good for the Brain and the Body

It’s not just your energy levels that benefit from coffee. Research suggests that regular, moderate consumption (around 2–4 cups a day) may help protect the brain and enhance mental performance.

Studies have linked coffee intake to a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, with one meta-analysis published in Nutrients suggesting that caffeine may play a neuroprotective role.

Other well-documented benefits include:

• Improved cognitive function, memory, and alertness
  
• Better physical performance, thanks to increased adrenaline
  
• Enhanced mood, as coffee may stimulate dopamine release
  

Caffeine also helps the body break down fat more efficiently, which is why it’s often found in natural fat-burning supplements. But as always, balance is key — too much can disrupt sleep and lead to jitters.

Heart, Liver, and Longevity Benefits

There’s growing evidence that coffee, in the right amounts, can contribute to heart and liver health too. According to the British Heart Foundation, drinking coffee is not linked to an increased risk of heart problems — and may even offer protection against stroke and heart failure when consumed in moderation.

Other surprising benefits include:

• A reduced risk of type 2 diabetes
  
• Protection against liver diseases, including cirrhosis and fatty liver
  
• Possible improvements in gut health, thanks to natural prebiotic compounds
  

Some long-term studies even suggest that moderate coffee drinkers may have a lower risk of early death, likely due to its broad anti-inflammatory and protective effects.

Why Ethical Coffee Makes the Difference

Of course, how your coffee is grown, sourced and roasted makes a huge difference — not just for your health, but for the planet and the people who produce it.

At Indigo Valley, we’re committed to:

• Fairtrade-certified beans that ensure fair wages and support for coffee-growing communities
  
• Carbon-neutral roasting, capturing over 94% of CO₂ emissions
  
• Compostable packaging, helping to reduce waste from bean to brew
  

We believe that better coffee shouldn’t come at the cost of people or the planet. When you choose ethical coffee, you’re voting for a healthier future — for yourself and for the world.

Final Sip

Your daily coffee habit doesn’t need to come with guilt — in fact, when it’s done right, it can be one of the most beneficial parts of your day. Rich in antioxidants, good for your brain and body, and even supportive of a longer life… It’s no wonder coffee has earned its place as a wellness staple.

So tomorrow morning, when you take that first sip of your Indigo Valley brew, know that you’re nourishing more than just your routine. You’re making a small but meaningful choice for your health, your values, and your impact on the planet.

Explore our range of ethical, sustainable coffees here

Coffee is more than a drink; It’s a daily ritual, a moment of calm, a burst of creativity. And when paired with the right treat, your coffee experience can become even more satisfying. Whether you enjoy a rich espresso, a smooth flat white or a chilled cold brew, there’s a perfect pairing out there waiting for you. In this guide, we’ll explore how to elevate your coffee break with thoughtfully chosen snacks and desserts, inspired by flavour, texture and occasion.

Why Coffee Pairing Matters

Coffee pairing is similar to wine pairing: when flavours are balanced well, both the drink and the food shine brighter. The right match enhances the natural notes in your coffee, whether that’s fruity, nutty, chocolatey or spiced, while complementing the texture and sweetness of your treat.

Plus, pairing gives you a deeper appreciation of what’s in your cup. When done right, it turns a simple break into a sensory experience.

Understanding Coffee Flavour Profiles

To master the art of pairing, start by understanding the flavour profile of your coffee. Here are three key categories to keep in mind:

Fruity & Floral (e.g. Ethiopian or Kenyan single origins): Light, bright and zesty.

Chocolatey & Nutty (e.g. South American blends): Smooth, round and comforting.

Bold & Earthy (e.g. Indonesian or dark roasts): Deep, smoky and robust.

The origin, roast level and brewing method all affect a coffee’s flavour. When you know your cup, you can find the perfect bite to match.

Perfect Pairings for Popular Coffee Styles

Here are some pairing ideas to suit the most popular coffee types — whether at home or in the office:

Espresso: Rich and intense, espresso needs a bold companion.
→ Best pairings: Dark chocolate, almond biscotti, salted caramel brownies.

Flat White / Latte: Smooth and milky coffees work well with buttery or sweet baked goods.
→ Best pairings: Croissants, shortbread, vanilla sponge, cinnamon rolls.

Filter Coffee: Light-bodied filter brews pair best with subtle, not-too-sweet bakes.
→ Best pairings: Lemon drizzle cake, ginger snaps, almond fingers.

Cold Brew / Iced Coffee: Cold coffee benefits from contrast — think bright or tropical flavours.
→ Best pairings: Chocolate-dipped nuts, coconut macaroons, citrus sorbet.Want more pairing inspiration? The British Coffee Association has great insights on brewing and flavour development.

Pairing with Indigo Valley’s Signature Blends

At Indigo Valley, our coffee is crafted with purpose, ethically sourced, carbon neutral, and designed to be enjoyed mindfully. Here’s how to pair a couple of our favourite blends:

Carvi Blend:Smooth with chocolate and nutty notes.
→ Try with: Pecan pie, chocolate-orange tiffin, chocolate chip cookies.

Classic Blend: Bold and rounded with a hint of spice.
→ Try with: Spiced ginger cake, date loaf, or oat biscuits.

Explore our full range of sustainable coffees here, and find your flavour match.

Want to impress at your next team event or dinner party? A coffee tasting with matching treats is a simple, elegant way to do it. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Serve 2–3 different coffee types with mini dessert pairings.
2. Offer small tasting cups so guests can compare.
3. Provide palate cleansers like sparkling water or crackers.
4. Create a tasting card with notes for fun discussions.

Hosting a tasting is also a great way to introduce others to the ethical story behind Indigo Valley coffee. Read more about our commitment to sustainability and Fairtrade sourcing.

Final Sip

Coffee pairing is all about slowing down and enjoying the little things. Whether you’re grabbing a five-minute break or hosting a tasting for friends, matching your brew with the right snack turns a good moment into a great one.

And when that coffee is ethically sourced, carbon neutral, and expertly roasted… Well, that’s the ultimate pairing.

Explore our blends, stock up on your favourites, and treat yourself to a little coffee magic.

👉 Browse Indigo Valley Coffees

At Indigo Valley, we’ve always believed that great coffee doesn’t just come from the bean, it comes from thriving communities. Today, we’re excited to share our ongoing commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people, caregivers, and entire communities in Togo by aiding the Nehemiah Agribusiness Academy (NABA). This initiative, part of Compassion Togo’s broader strategy, is focused on equipping participants with the agricultural and entrepreneurial skills they need to break cycles of poverty and foster long-term sustainable development.

About the Nehemiah Agribusiness Academy (NABA)

The Nehemiah Agribusiness Academy is dedicated to providing training in agribusiness to Compassion-supported youth, their caregivers, and community members. It’s a community-centred approach that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, emphasising environmental stewardship, youth empowerment, and the use of clean energy technologies. By focusing on agriculture, an essential livelihood in Togo, NABA addresses the country’s most pressing issues: climate vulnerability, youth unemployment, and limited access to modern farming techniques.

Why Togo?

Despite its rich agricultural potential, Togo faces significant challenges due to climate change, economic constraints, and a shortage of professional training opportunities. Many young people, even those who have completed their formal education, struggle to find stable work. The dominance of subsistence farming methods and limited exposure to modern farming technologies mean that potential remains untapped.

By supporting the Nehemiah Agribusiness Academy, we’re helping to nurture this potential. The project provides hands-on training in environmentally sustainable farming, animal husbandry, and basic business skills, allowing participants to not only grow their own ventures but also strengthen the food security and economic resilience of the entire community.

Phase Two Highlights: Practical Skills and Real Results

Since January 2024, the second phase of the NABA project has produced encouraging outcomes.

Infrastructure Development:
New dormitories, a kitchen, a storehouse, and a borehole are planned to support ongoing activities. Selection of construction companies is underway, setting the stage for more robust training facilities and improved living conditions for participants.

Chicken Breeding Experiment:
Between February and May 2024, participants successfully bred 500 chickens, achieving a 16% positive margin on production costs. This hands-on experience helped them understand the economics of poultry farming and gain confidence in their business acumen.

Vegetable Cultivation and Sales:
Locally grown vegetables were sold to Compassion child development centres and local markets in Kpèlè and Notsé, improving community access to fresh, nutritious produce while generating income for the participants.

Summer Camp Involvement:
During school holidays, 280 children explored poultry farming, fish farming, market gardening, and nursery production. This hands-on exposure at an early age instills critical thinking, problem-solving, and an entrepreneurial spirit that can shape their futures.

The results of NABA’s second phase have been remarkable in several ways. First, from an economic perspective, the sale of chickens, fish, and vegetables has generated over £2,000, covering operational costs and allowing the academy to continue operating sustainably without ongoing external support. In terms of skill building and awareness, participants have gained technical expertise in agriculture, learning how to run their own farms, manage composting effectively, and follow proper planting schedules to improve yields. This knowledge not only strengthens the local economy but also promotes responsible environmental management. Beyond these improvements, the broader community also benefits. Access to fresh, locally produced goods grown with health-preserving methods enhances overall well-being, while the academy’s growing reputation encourages more young people to consider agribusiness as a viable path for their future.

A Shared Vision for a Brighter Future

At Indigo Valley, our support is more than a financial contribution – it’s an investment in the future of these young people, their families, and their communities. By championing initiatives like the Nehemiah Agribusiness Academy, we’re working to break the cycle of poverty and create opportunities for sustainable growth. This not only aligns with our commitment to responsibly sourced coffee and ethical business practices but ensures that communities flourish, fostering the conditions that produce exceptional coffee and thriving local economies.

As we continue on this journey, we do so with gratitude, transparency, and accountability. Your support, whether through purchasing our coffee or spreading the word, makes these transformations possible. It’s your partnership and compassion that strengthen NABA’s impact and help shape a future where agriculture is not just a means of survival but a path to prosperity.

Thank you for joining us in this effort. We look forward to sharing more stories of hope, progress, and transformation as the NABA centre continues to expand its reach and empower the next generation of agribusiness leaders in Togo.

Empowering Coffee-Growing Communities

At Indigo Valley, we are deeply passionate about making a meaningful difference in the coffee-growing communities worldwide. Coffee is often cultivated in remote tropical regions, presenting unique challenges to families living there. That’s why we proudly support Compassion’s intervention projects, which empower children and families in regions grappling with extreme poverty.

Since 1993, Compassion has been a driving force in Ethiopia – the birthplace of coffee – transforming lives and futures. Through our recent partnership, we’ve contributed to a significant intervention project that has empowered 1,008 caregivers, helping them break the cycle of poverty and become self-sufficient.

THE PROBLEM

CHILDREN ARE BORN INTO POVERTY

In regions marked by severe poverty, caregivers often face overwhelming challenges. Earning below £0.44 a day – far beneath the international extreme poverty line – families struggle to provide basic needs, let alone afford education or opportunities to break the cycle of deprivation.

THE INTERVENTION

INCOME GENERATION TRAINING

Compassion’s programme equips caregivers with training and microloans, enabling them to start small businesses. Through 52 Self-Help Groups (SHGs), participants gain vital skills in financial management, entrepreneurship, and market linkages. These groups foster community unity, instilling confidence and the means to achieve financial stability.

The Outcome

LIVES TRANSFORMED

Thanks to this intervention:

• Countless families can now afford essentials like food, clothing, and school supplies while setting aside regular savings.
• 1,008 families now have sustainable incomes, quadrupling their earnings from less than £13 a month to an average of £93.
• 434 caregivers have fully repaid their loans, collectively saving £14,000 – an inspiring testament to their determination and resilience.

The holiday season is upon us, and there’s nothing better than finding a thoughtful gift to keep your loved ones cosy and warm all winter long. This year, why not give the gift of incredible coffee? Whether you’re shopping for the casual coffee drinker, the aficionado, or someone just discovering specialty brews, our Holiday Coffee Gift Guide has something for everyone. Here are our top picks to spread cheer – and a little caffeine – this season:

Classic Blend

For those who crave richness and indulgence, our Classic Blend is a must-try. This full-bodied coffee brings together deep chocolate notes with hints of roasted almonds and a touch of dried fruit sweetness, resulting in a smooth, satisfying sip that feels like a warm hug on chilly mornings.

Organic Blend

Aim to store your beans at room temperature, in a pantry or cupboard away from any sources of moisture or heat. While it might be tempting to store coffee beans in the fridge, this will do more harm than good. The constant temperature changes and high moisture levels cause condensation, leading to the coffee becoming very stale and a total loss of flavour. Instead, stick to storing your beans at room temperature.

Archie’s Colombian

Bright and lively, Archie’s Colombian is a smooth, balanced option that combines chocolate and blackcurrant, delivering a silky-rich finish that’s perfect for any time of day. This blend brings energy and a touch of sweetness, making it an ideal pick-me-up or a festive brunch pairing.

A seasonal favourite, our Carvi Blend is a comforting and cosy brew with dark cocoa notes, roasted nuts, and a hint of sweet cedar. It’s the perfect blend for those frosty mornings by the fire and an ideal companion to holiday treats.

Coffee Gifts That Keep on Giving

This holiday season, we’re making it easier than ever to share the love of coffee. All our blends are available as either one-time purchases or subscriptions, letting you enjoy a new blend each month or stick to your tried-and-true favourite. Each blend is offered in both 1kg and 450g packages to suit any gifting need. Plus, every package comes with a QR code that links to a free brewing guide download, so you can create the perfect cup from the comfort of your home.

Tea Gifts for Cosy Winter Moments

For tea lovers, we offer a range of luxurious, ethically sourced loose-leaf teas. From energising blends to calming herbal options, each tea is packed with flavour, adding warmth and comfort to every cosy evening or brisk winter morning.

This holiday season, wrap up their favourite blend or build a custom bundle for the ultimate coffee or tea experience under the tree. Whether you’re treating yourself or giving to loved ones, these thoughtful gifts are bound to make mornings brighter and evenings cosier, all year long.

Happy holidays and here’s to giving the gift of a perfect brew!

As the demand for plant-based options grows, so does the variety and quality of vegan coffee additives. From plant-based milk to innovative syrups, and flavourings, there’s never been a better time to be a coffee-loving vegan. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular plant-based coffee additives you can try.

Plant-Based Milks

Almond Milk: A classic choice, almond milk offers a light, nutty flavour that pairs well with coffee. It’s low in calories and often fortified with vitamins and minerals.

Oat Milk: Creamy and slightly sweet, oat milk has quickly become a favourite. It froths well, making it perfect for lattes and cappuccinos.

Soy Milk: One of the earliest plant-based milk options, soy milk is rich and creamy, with a protein content comparable to dairy milk.

Coconut Milk: Adds a tropical twist to your coffee with its rich, creamy texture and subtle coconut flavour.

Cashew Milk: Smooth and buttery, cashew milk blends seamlessly into coffee, offering a rich and creamy texture without overpowering the coffee’s flavour.

Plant-Based Frappés

For those hot summer days or whenever you’re craving a refreshing treat, plant-based frappés are the way to go. One standout option is Sweetbird’s Caffé Frappé, a versatile and delicious base perfect for creating vegan frappés.

Sweetbird’s Caffé Frappé (ve) is crafted with rich Brazilian coffee and a touch of West African cocoa, providing a depth of flavour that’s hard to resist. Here’s how you can make the most of this vegan-friendly frappé base:

1. Choosing Your Milk: Use your preferred milk or milk alternative, such as almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk. Oat milk is particularly creamy and blends well.
2. Sweetening It Up: Sweetbird’s Caffé Frappé is balanced, but you can add agave or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
3. Blending It: Mix Sweetbird’s Caffé Frappé with your chosen milk and plenty of ice. Blend until smooth and frothy.
4. Topping It Off: Top with coconut whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa or cinnamon for an indulgent finish.

Sweetbird’s Caffé Frappé is dairy-free and approved by The Vegan Society, making it a perfect choice for delicious, ethical coffee treats. 

Flavour Enhancements

There are numerous plant-based ways to add flavour to your coffee.

Nut Butters: A spoonful of almond or cashew butter can add creaminess and a nutty flavour boost.

Vanilla Syrup: A few drops can add a lovely vanilla aroma and flavour. Sweetbird’s Vanilla Syrup is Ideal for coffee, shakes & smoothies. 

Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon can add warmth and spice, enhancing the coffee’s natural flavours.

Chocolate Sauce: For a mocha twist, mix in some chocolate sauce for a rich, chocolatey flavour. Our favourite is Zuma’s Dark Chocolate sauce which is vegan approved! 

The Benefits of Going Plant-Based

Switching to plant-based coffee additives has numerous benefits:

• Health: Many plant-based options are lower in calories and fat compared to dairy, and they often come with added vitamins and minerals.
• Sustainability: Plant-based additives typically have a lower environmental impact than dairy products, contributing to a more sustainable planet.
• Ethics: For vegans, plant-based additives align with a lifestyle that avoids animal products and supports animal welfare.

If you’re new to plant-based coffee additives, start by experimenting with different options to find what suits your taste. Try adding oat milk to your morning coffee or a splash of almond creamer to your afternoon latte. Don’t be afraid to mix and match until you discover your perfect cup.

With a wide array of delicious and ethical options available, it’s easier than ever for vegans and non-vegans alike to enjoy a satisfying cup of coffee.