Independent Coffee Analysis
Since 1995, Coffee Lab International has actively supported all facets of the coffee industry through research & development, education, quality analysis, quality assurance, quality improvement, and laboratory services. CLI is an independent lab in an official SCA Campus setting specializing in the physical & sensorial evaluation of coffee.
Anyone who deals with coffee and is in need of research, product development, quality assurance programs, continuous testing, green bean sourcing, roasting specifications, or continuous quality improvement strategies and systems, can turn to CLI for their proven expertise.
CLI offers testing, training & actionable solutions related to the coffee industry
Sourcing & Blend Development * Shelf Life Studies * Sensory Panel Design & Calibration * Coffee Education & Training * Equipment Analysis * Coffee Specification Manuals * Packaging Integrity * Quality Descriptive Analysis
technical services
Coffee Quality Control
Underlying coffee quality problems can be complex; from the integrity of beans at source, improper storage, and inconsistencies between roasts; to blends that are out of spec, equipment issues, and lack of proper staff training. CLI has experience in improving a company's entire coffee process.
Call for a Quote 802-244-6176
Quality Assurance Programs
CLI works with clients & their roasting partners as a third party, independent QA lab. We can design & implement a Quality Improvement (QI) and continuous Quality Assurance (QA) program, focusing on establishing and maintaining a consistent, high quality line of coffee products.
Call 802-244-6176 to Discuss
Green & Roasted Bean Analysis
Our Lab is outfitted with all of the state-of-the-art equipment to analyze & evaluate coffee in all of its forms including green, roasted, soluble, and extracts. CLI's sensory panel conducts a battery of physical tests which can provide insight & uncover various problems otherwise undetected.
Meet our team of Coffee pros
Lab Director & Q Grader - Shannon
Shannon, with 25+ years of coffee experience & knowledge in the specialty coffee arena, leads the sensory team and acts as CLI's Lab Director. She sets standards & protocols for product analysis & standardized laboratory techniques, & works with both green & roasted physical bean evaluation. She is a certified Q Grader for both Robusta & Arabica coffees, an International Tasting Judge, a certified Level II Specialty Tea Taster, & SCA Certified Lead Instructor.
Founder & Q Grader- Mané Alves
Mané has worked in the specialty coffee industry for over 25 years. As a certified Q Instructor as well as an International Coffee Tasting Judge, Mané's reputation as a distinguished cupper is unparalleled. He is a stickler for quality, & knowledgeable in all aspects of the complex coffee process - from seed to cup. He & his team have been instrumental in helping coffee companies, large & small, vastly improve their coffee offerings.
Lab Tech - Seth
Seth is the newest member of the team. He entered into the coffee business from the culinary world in 2003. He wears a number of hats for us including Lab Technician and Sample Roaster. Seth also coordinates the world-wide CQI coffee program for Q instructors globally. He brings vast experience in grind & blend management as well as coffee logistics. Seth's second (& most important job) is Dad to his twin girls pictured here.
