A South American business known for producing spirits from coca leaves, the primary ingredient of cocaine, has ventured into the beer market following a recent decision by the World Health Organization (WHO) to evaluate the non-narcotic properties of coca.
The move has sparked hope among Bolivian farmers, as Lizzette Torrez, a leader of one of Bolivia’s main coca-grower unions, expressed optimism about the potential of coca-derived products reaching global markets. Torrez emphasized the longstanding desire of Bolivian communities to export such products, reflecting the cultural significance of coca leaves in indigenous rituals.
Bolivia, recognized as the world’s third-largest producer of coca leaf and cocaine, has a rich history of utilizing coca leaves in spiritual practices for generations.
With changing legislation, Bolivian entrepreneurs have introduced new coca-related products to the market, including a novel beer crafted by El Viejo Roble. According to manager Adrián Álvarez, the beer boasts a unique blend of bitterness and sweetness derived from coca leaves, enhancing its palatability.
Currently, the beer is being bottled at the El Viejo Roble facility and will soon complement the business’s existing lineup of coca-infused vodka and rum, popular among government officials and tourists. However, despite local success, distribution remains limited to artisanal fairs in Bolivia and Peru, where coca leaf use is legal under specific regulations prohibiting cocaine production.
While South American markets embrace coca-derived beverages, international distribution faces hurdles due to the United Nations’ classification of coca leaf as a narcotic, subject to blanket prohibition globally. Despite these challenges, the emergence of coca-infused products reflects a growing interest in exploring the non-narcotic potential of coca, fueled by changing attitudes and regulations.
