What is kopi luwak? A literature review on production, quality and problems

Abstract

Kopi luwak or civet coffee is known as one of the most popular coffee in the world. This coffee produced from the finest and ripest coffee berries that are eaten by luwak (Paradoxorus hermaphroditus), a cat like-animal. Kopi luwak is currently recognized as the most special and most expensive coffee in the world. Kopi luwak production is initially done naturally by collecting kopi luwak from nature. However, due to the limited number, farmer began to cultivate kopi luwak with captivity (caged kopi luwak). A number of problems arise in production, consumption and trade. Indonesia as the first country to produce kopi luwak certainly needs to pay special attention to the development of this coffee. Some research results show that wild kopi luwak and caged kopi luwak have different characteristics. Kopi luwak production with captivity needs to be well studied so that it can be accepted by the world market. Counterfeiting kopi luwak is still common. Standardization of kopi luwak quality needs to be developed, certification of kopi luwak as a quality guarantee will increase consumer confidence and maintain the continuity of this coffee.