Korea’s coffee substitute market rises amid climate threats to coffee beans

The coffee substitute market in Korea is expanding, driven by declining global coffee bean production due to extreme climate conditions and rising demand for caffeine-free beverages. The domestic market is diversifying, with more companies and sales channels entering the space. This trend mirrors global developments, as increasingly harsh environmental conditions impact crop production and prompt coffee drinkers to explore alternative beverages. Fueling the expansion of the coffee substitute market in Korea — where coffee supply is entirely dependent on imports and consumption remains high — is the growing demand for healthier, caffeine-free alternatives. While many consumers still crave the taste of coffee, they avoid it due to the stimulant’s side effects, which can include sleep disturbances, heightened anxiety, indigestion and increased heart rate. Companies exploring alternatives to coffee have begun launching their own products. Dong Nam Corp., a food importer based in Anyang, Gyeonggi Province, has been distributing Orzo — a coffee-flavored tea brand from Italian companyWeiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times Weiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times