The Company has invested in modern coffee quality analysis laboratories to ensure all milled coffee is graded in accordance with international coffee standards and specifications. Our Quality Control Division assesses coffee on a per-outturn basis through cupping tests for classification, and provides growers with milling statements containing observations and recommendations to aid continuous quality improvement.
Key service facts
2×
Analyses per outturn — pre & post milling
8
Grades against Kenya Coffee Classification
RA118102
Rainforest Alliance certification
100%
Outturns cupped & reported
From sample to cup score
Coffee is analysed twice — before milling to advise the optimal milling schedule, and after milling to verify grade and cup quality. The cupping cycle below follows the internationally recognised sensory protocol.
Figure 2.1 — Quality Analysis & Cupping Cycle
What the laboratory measures
Quality parameters include bean size, density and defect levels, with cupping scores maintained for premium lots and traceability records maintained throughout the marketing process. All coffee must meet the Kenya Coffee Classification standards.
| Stage | What we assess | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-milling quality analysis | Moisture, defects, bean characteristics | Advise the optimal milling schedule |
| Post-milling quality evaluation | Screen sizing & grading verification | Confirm grade classification per outturn |
| Cupping & sensory analysis | Fragrance, flavour, acidity, body, balance | Award cup score for premium positioning |
| Quality reporting | Final quality report per outturn | Guide marketing strategy & customer profiling |
Standards & certification
Our laboratories meet international standards for coffee laboratories — built around accuracy, consistency and reliability in the analysis and evaluation of coffee samples. New KPCU is licensed to process certified coffee and holds Rainforest Alliance certification (RA118102), alongside Fairtrade and C.A.F.E Practices recognition. Regular quality audits are conducted by certified cuppers, and grade certificates accompany all marketing documents.