Working conditions

Although Nescafe presents itself as a company that supports fair working conditions, the reality for many coffee farmers in its supply chain tells a different story. Reports from Brazil and Vietnam have revealed troubling conditions, where workers endure long hours for shockingly low wages, sometimes as little as $3 a day. This meager income is nowhere near enough to cover even the most basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare, leaving many trapped in a cycle of poverty with little hope for improvement.

Beyond the financial struggles, these workers also face significant health risks. Many are regularly exposed to harmful chemicals, such as pesticides, without proper protective equipment. With wages so low, purchasing safety gear is often not an option for them, putting their physical wellbeing at serious risk. Constant exposure to these chemicals can lead to severe health issues, including long term headaches, dizziness and nausea, sometimes even fatal outcomes.

The situation in Brazil became so dire that, in 2024, over 200 coffee workers were rescued from what the government officially classified as “slave-like” conditions. These individuals had their wages withheld, were forced to work in hazardous environments, and suffered extreme exploitation. Since their pay is determined by the amount of coffee they pick rather than a stable hourly wage, they are pushed to work excessively long hours just to make ends meet. The pressure to pick more beans in less time forces them into a physically exhausting and mentally draining cycle, with little room for rest or mental wellbeing.

Nescafe often promotes itself as a leader in sustainability and ethical sourcing, yet these ongoing labor abuses highlight a clear contradiction. While the company continues to make promises about improving conditions, many coffee farmers and laborers still struggle daily under unfair and exploitative circumstances. This is not just a distant issue, it’s something we as consumers, have the power to influence.

By raising awareness and making conscious choices about the brands we support, we can push for real change in the coffee industry. Fair wages, safer working conditions, and basic human dignity should not be optional, they should be the standard.