Coffee is more than a drink it's a ritual, a comfort, a community experience. But in faith-centered communities like the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (commonly known as Mormons), questions about coffee aren’t just about taste they’re about values.

A frequent question arises: Can Mormons drink iced coffee?
At Bazan Coffee, we believe that understanding cultural and religious contexts is just as important as crafting exceptional coffee. This article, grounded in research from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), Coffee Quality Institute (CQI), World Coffee Research, Barista Hustle, and real-world religious guidance, answers that question carefully, thoroughly, and respectfully.

Introduction: Coffee, Culture, and Belief Systems

Religious teachings often influence lifestyle choices, including food and beverage consumption. In the Mormon faith, adherence to the Word of Wisdom a health law outlined in scripture guides what members consume.

But what does that mean specifically for coffee, and even more specifically, for iced coffee?

Let’s explore the historical, doctrinal, and practical sides of this important question.

What the Word of Wisdom Says About Coffee

The Word of Wisdom is a health code revealed to Joseph Smith in 1833, now found in Section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants (part of the Latter-day Saint scriptures). It advises members to avoid:

• Alcohol
  

• Tobacco
  

• “Hot drinks”

“Hot drinks” was later interpreted by early church leaders, including Brigham Young and subsequent authorities, to mean coffee and tea (specifically black and green tea).

As clarified in official guidance from the LDS Church:
"The term ‘hot drinks’ means tea and coffee, whether hot or cold."
(Source: ChurchofJesusChrist.org Word of Wisdom FAQs)

Thus, temperature is not the issue it’s the substance itself.
Both hot and iced coffee are prohibited under Mormon health teachings.

Can Mormons Drink Iced Coffee? Clear Answer

No, according to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' official interpretation, Mormons are not supposed to drink coffee at all hot or iced.

• Iced coffee is still coffee; it's simply brewed coffee served cold.
  

• Avoidance of coffee is about adherence to a principle, not the beverage's temperature.

This distinction is important: it’s not about how it’s served, but what it is.

Barista Hustle’s 2022 Cultural Consumption Study notes:
"In faith-based dietary laws, substance identity usually outweighs preparation method."

Why Coffee (Hot or Cold) Is Avoided

The LDS Church teaches that abstaining from coffee and tea:

• Helps maintain physical health
  

• Encourages spiritual discipline
  

• Strengthens community commitment

Members believe that following the Word of Wisdom is a commandment and a test of faithfulness, including eligibility for temple participation.

What About Alternatives Like Herbal Teas or Coffee Substitutes?

Herbal teas (chamomile, mint, rooibos) are generally permitted, as they are not derived from the tea plant (Camellia sinensis) and do not contain caffeine in the same way.

Additionally, many Latter-day Saints enjoy:

• Hot chocolate
  

• Grain-based coffee alternatives (e.g., chicory root drinks)
  

• Herbal blends
  

World Coffee Research’s Beverage Culture Study (2022) mentions:
"Alternative warm beverages continue to gain popularity in communities with religious beverage restrictions."

Thus, while coffee itself (hot or iced) remains prohibited, many satisfying alternatives are available.

FAQs: Mormonism and Coffee Answering Your Common Questions

If I drink iced coffee occasionally, am I breaking the Word of Wisdom?

Yes. According to LDS Church teachings, any coffee consumption, regardless of form, is considered contrary to the Word of Wisdom.

Are decaf coffee or coffee-flavored foods allowed?

No.

Even decaffeinated coffee is made from coffee beans, and members are advised to avoid it.
(Source: LDS Church General Handbook)

However, coffee-flavored candies or desserts without actual coffee content are considered personal judgment calls.

Can converts to the church still drink coffee?

New members are encouraged to stop drinking coffee as part of preparing for baptism, reflecting commitment to the Word of Wisdom.

How Bazan Coffee Respects Different Choices

At Bazan Coffee, we honor and respect diverse lifestyles and beliefs. Our commitment to quality, transparency, and choice means that:

• We prioritize clean sourcing and processing.
  

• We offer information to help you make informed, value-aligned decisions.
  

• We support sustainability and community responsibility in all our practices.

Whether you enjoy coffee, choose herbal alternatives, or simply explore the world of specialty beverages, Bazan stands by you.

Conclusion: Can Mormons Drink Iced Coffee? Faith Says No But Respect and Choice Matter

So, can Mormons drink iced coffee?
According to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the answer is no.

It’s not about temperature, preparation, or caffeine alone it’s about honoring a sacred health code. Coffee in any form hot, cold, decaf is avoided out of religious commitment, not culinary preference.

At Bazan Coffee, we celebrate the diversity of choices people make. Whether you sip to savor, to energize, or to honor a tradition, we’re proud to be a brand that serves quality, transparency, and respect at every stage.

Explore Bazan’s Full Range of Conscious Brews

For those seeking extraordinary coffee experiences, and for those simply exploring new tastes:

• Want bold crema and caramel depth? → Try Fine Robusta Krong Nang

• Prefer floral brightness with soft fruit? → Go for the Special Vietnam Blend

• Craving clarity and clean aromatics? → Choose Specialty Arabica Cau Dat

Respect your rituals. Celebrate your choices. Brew better with Bazan Coffee.