Unveiling trends in civet coffee research: a bibliometric perspective from Scopus (2004–2025)

Purpose This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of global civet coffee research published between 2004 and 2024, identifying key publication trends, research themes and future directions. Design/methodology/approach A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Scopus database, selected for its broad coverage of agriculture, food science and environmental disciplines, and its compatibility with the Bibliometrix R package. Bibliometric tools in R and Excel were used to examine publication trends, leading authors, journals, institutions, country contributions and keyword co-occurrence. Findings The study shows steady growth in civet coffee research, with Indonesia leading in author and institutional output. Dominant themes include authentication methods, chemical profiling, microbial and enzymatic fermentation, animal welfare and ethical production. Spectroscopy, chromatography and metabolomics were common analytical tools. A thematic shift is observed towards biotechnological alternatives replicating civet digestion. Nonetheless, research gaps persist in sustainability assessment, certification systems and consumer perception studies. Practical implications This study offers insights for researchers, producers and policymakers aiming to develop ethical and sustainable civet coffee systems. Emphasising fermentation-based alternatives and robust certification could enhance animal welfare, authenticity and consumer trust. Originality/value This is the first bibliometric analysis focused exclusively on civet coffee, mapping its global scientific landscape and identifying emerging research priorities. The findings underscore the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address ethical, technological and ecological challenges.