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tags: [] - coffee/quality-control aliases: - coffee quality standards - specialty quality criteria created: 2026-05-10 updated: 2026-05-10

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Quality Standards

Tags: #coffee/quality-control Aliases: coffee quality standards, specialty quality criteria Related: Specialty Grade Requirements | Quality Control MOC | Specialty Coffee MoC Status: 🌱 Stub

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Overview

Quality standards in specialty coffee are the measurable benchmarks — physical green grading (zero Category 1 defects, maximum five Category 2 equivalents in 350 g), cup score (minimum 80 points on the SCA scale), moisture content (10–12%), and absence of quakers — established by the SCA and evaluated by Q Graders. These standards provide the objective foundation that distinguishes specialty coffee from premium and commodity grades. Consistent application of these criteria across the supply chain enables roasters and buyers to make sourcing decisions based on verifiable quality data.

Related Notes

• Specialty Grade Requirements
• Quality Control MOC
• Specialty Coffee MoC

References

• SCA, Green Coffee Grading Handbook

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