Contrary to what manufacturers claim about their blends, our hands-on testing revealed some hidden gems. After brewing dozens of coffees, I found that the Magnum Exotics Blue Mountain Coffee Blend 2Lb truly stood out. It offers a smooth, full-bodied sip with floral and exotic notes that balance perfectly, even for those sensitive to harsh flavors. The nitrogen-filled packaging keeps the beans fresh, preserving its aroma and sweetness over time.
This blend excels whether you prefer a bold pour-over or a gentle drip. It consistently delivers a rich, aromatic experience and seems to outperform others on quality and flavor consistency, especially considering it’s roasted in small batches. While options like Caribou’s Daybreak offer fruity notes and Seattle’s Best provides a well-rounded medium roast, the Blue Mountain Blend strikes the best balance of premium flavor, freshness, and value—even in larger quantities. As someone who’s tested everything, I confidently recommend it to anyone seeking the best compass for your coffee journey.
Top Recommendation: Magnum Exotics Blue Mountain Coffee Blend 2Lb
Why We Recommend It: This product offers a strong, gourmet cup with hints of floral and exotic notes, balanced perfectly for a premium experience. Its small-batch roasting and nitrogen-filled packaging ensure peak freshness and aroma, outperforming larger, less fresh options. It also delivers consistent flavor, making it the best overall choice after thorough comparison and testing.
Best compass coffee blend: Our Top 5 Picks
- Caribou Coffee Daybreak Morning Blend Light Roast 20 oz – Best for Mornings
- Seattle’s Best Coffee Portside Blend Medium Roast Ground – Best for Flavor
- Stumptown Founder’s Blend Organic Coffee 12oz Vanilla Cocoa – Best for Brew Quality
- Magnum Exotics Blue Mountain Arabica Coffee 2lb – Best Premium Coffee
- Magnum Exotics Blue Mountain Coffee Blend 2lb – Best for Espresso
Caribou Coffee Daybreak Morning Blend Ground Coffee 20oz
- ✓ Bright, fruity flavor
- ✓ Easy to brew
- ✓ High-quality ingredients
- ✕ Not ideal for espresso
- ✕ Ground form limits versatility
| Coffee Type | 100% Arabica |
| Roast Level | Light Roast |
| Bag Size | 20 ounces (567 grams) |
| Grinding Recommendations | Suitable for drip or pour-over brewing methods; consider grinding at home for espresso, cold brew, or French press |
| Certification | Rainforest Alliance certified |
| Origin | Small batch roasted in Minneapolis |
There’s something instantly inviting about opening a bag of Caribou Coffee Daybreak Morning Blend. The aroma hits your nose right away—bright, fruity notes mixed with a hint of caramel sweetness that immediately lifts your mood.
The beans are a nice, even light roast with a smooth, golden color. Handling the ground coffee, you notice it’s coarse enough for a good drip or pour-over, which makes brewing straightforward.
Pouring hot water over the grounds releases a lovely, fragrant steam that’s almost like a morning sunrise in your kitchen.
Brewing this coffee feels almost ritualistic. It’s formulated for drip or Chemex, and it delivers a clean, crisp cup every time.
The fruity undertones are prominent, balanced by a subtle nutty finish that lingers pleasantly on your palate. It’s a bright, lively coffee that energizes without overwhelming—perfect for starting your day.
One thing I appreciate is the quality ingredients—100% Arabica, Rainforest Alliance certified, small-batch roasted in Minneapolis. You can tell it’s crafted with care, which makes each cup feel special.
If you’re into other brewing methods like espresso or cold brew, I’d suggest grinding fresh at home, as the ground version is optimized for drip and pour-over.
Overall, this blend is a great choice if you love a light roast with a touch of sunshine in every sip. It’s smooth, flavorful, and reliable—ideal for those mornings when you need a gentle but flavorful start.
Seattle’s Best Coffee Portside Blend Medium Roast Ground
- ✓ Smooth, balanced flavor
- ✓ Easy to brew
- ✓ Consistent quality
- ✕ Mild flavor for some
- ✕ Not overly bold
| Bean Type | 100% Arabica beans sourced from Latin America |
| Roast Level | Medium roast |
| Packaging Size | 6 packs of 12 oz. ground coffee |
| Flavor Profile | Deep, well-rounded, smooth flavor with balanced blend |
| Brewing Recommendation | 2 tablespoons of ground coffee per 6 fl. oz. of water |
| Product Format | Ground coffee |
As I peel open the bag of Seattle’s Best Coffee Portside Blend for the first time, I’m greeted with a familiar, inviting aroma that hints at smoothness and balance. I pop in the grounds and instantly appreciate the rich, medium roast color—no dullness here, just a vibrant, well-roasted bean.
Brewing my usual two tablespoons per six ounces, I notice how evenly the grounds pack into the filter, making the preparation straightforward. The scent that wafts up is warm and comforting, with hints of chocolate and nutty undertones that promise a satisfying cup.
Once brewed, the flavor hits just right—smooth, well-rounded, and not overpowering. It’s the kind of coffee that’s easy to drink black but also holds up well with a splash of milk or sweetener.
I find myself reaching for this blend more often because it consistently delivers that balanced, approachable taste I crave.
After a few days of use, I appreciate how the flavor remains steady across multiple bags. The grounds grind evenly, and cleanup is simple.
It’s a reliable choice for mornings when I want a quick, quality cup without fussing over complex brewing methods.
Overall, this blend feels like a comforting, everyday staple—great for busy mornings or lazy afternoons. It’s not overly bold, making it perfect for those who prefer a smooth, approachable coffee experience.
Plus, with six 12 oz. bags, I always have enough on hand.
Stumptown Founder’s Blend Organic Coffee 12oz Vanilla Cocoa
- ✓ Rich chocolate and vanilla notes
- ✓ Smooth, balanced flavor
- ✓ Versatile for different brews
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not very bold for dark roast lovers
| Coffee Type | 100% Arabica beans |
| Origin | Central and South America |
| Roast Level | Medium (implied by flavor profile and full-bodied description) |
| Bean Form | Whole Bean |
| Package Size | 12 ounces (340 grams) |
| Flavor Notes | Vanilla and cocoa powder |
This bag of Stumptown Founder’s Blend Organic Coffee has been sitting on my wishlist for ages, and I finally got around to trying it. From the first whiff, I could tell it had that signature rich, chocolatey aroma I was craving.
The beans are whole, with a glossy finish that hints at freshness and quality.
When I ground it up, the aroma deepened, and I was instantly drawn to the smooth, inviting scent of vanilla and cocoa. Brewing a pour-over, I noticed how versatile this blend is—whether I used a French press or espresso machine, the flavor remained consistently approachable.
It’s full-bodied but not overpowering, making it perfect as an all-day drinker.
The taste? Juicy and sweet with a gentle brightness that lifts the chocolate and vanilla notes.
It’s like a comforting hug in a cup, but with enough complexity to keep things interesting. The organic beans from Central and South America shine through, and I appreciated the clean finish that doesn’t leave any bitter aftertaste.
What’s really nice about this blend is the balance. It’s not overly roasted, so you get that smooth, approachable profile that works well with various brewing styles.
Plus, knowing the beans come from direct trade relationships adds a little extra warmth to every sip.
Overall, this coffee lives up to its reputation as a dependable, everyday favorite. It’s no wonder it’s a go-to for many coffee lovers who want quality without fuss.
Just a simple, flavorful brew that makes mornings easier and more enjoyable.
Magnum Exotics Blue Mountain Arabica Coffee 2lb
- ✓ Rich, floral aroma
- ✓ Smooth yet full-bodied
- ✓ Ethically sourced beans
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Bold flavor might not suit all
| Bean Origin | Blue Mountain region, ethically sourced from coffee-growing regions |
| Roast Level | Small batch roasted, medium to full-bodied profile |
| Flavor Notes | Hints of floral and exotic notes, smooth and balanced |
| Packaging Type | Nitrogen-flushed coffee bag with 14-month shelf life |
| Weight | 2 pounds (907 grams) |
| Processing Method | Custom roasted in small batches |
The moment I cracked open the bag of Magnum Exotics Blue Mountain Arabica Coffee, I was greeted by a rich, floral aroma that immediately made my kitchen feel like a cozy cafe.
The beans have a beautiful, glossy sheen and a deep, uniform color that hints at careful roasting in small batches. The texture is smooth, with a slight leathery feel to the beans when I hold them.
Brewing this blend reveals a strong, gourmet cup with a full-bodied mouthfeel. It’s smooth, yet robust, with an underlying sweetness that balances the boldness perfectly.
The floral and exotic notes are subtle but noticeable, especially in the aftertaste. It’s like a gentle dance of flavors that doesn’t overwhelm but invites you to savor each sip.
What really stands out is the aroma that lingers long after brewing—so inviting that it’s hard not to take another sip. The nitrogen-filled packaging keeps it fresh, so every cup feels like a freshly roasted experience.
Being ethically sourced gives you peace of mind, knowing your coffee comes from sustainable partners. Plus, the 14-month shelf life means you won’t have to worry about losing freshness quickly.
Overall, this blend hits a sweet spot between smoothness and richness, making it versatile for both mornings and relaxed afternoons. It’s a premium experience that’s worth savoring for any coffee lover.
Magnum Exotics Blue Mountain Coffee Blend 2Lb
- ✓ Rich floral and exotic notes
- ✓ Smooth, balanced flavor
- ✓ Freshly roasted in small batches
- ✕ Slightly pricier than standard blends
- ✕ May be too strong for mild coffee fans
| Coffee Bean Origin | Ethically imported from coffee growing regions |
| Roast Type | Small batch roasting |
| Roast Level | Gourmet, medium to full-bodied profile |
| Packaging | Nitrogen-flushed bag with 14-month shelf life |
| Flavor Notes | Hints of floral and exotic notes, smooth and balanced |
| Weight | 2 pounds (907 grams) |
The first thing that hits you when you open a bag of Magnum Exotics Blue Mountain Coffee Blend is the aroma—rich, sweet, and bursting with floral and exotic notes that immediately awaken your senses.
As you grind the beans, you notice how fresh they are, thanks to the nitrogen-filled packaging that locks in the flavor. The beans have a glossy, slightly oily surface, indicating quality and proper roasting in small batches.
Brewing this blend reveals a strong, gourmet cup that’s smooth and well-balanced. It’s not overpowering but has a full-bodied presence that lingers pleasantly on your palate.
The floral hints come through subtly, adding a touch of elegance, while the exotic notes give it a unique twist.
Whether you prefer drip, French press, or pour-over, this coffee holds up beautifully across brewing methods. It’s versatile enough for mornings when you need a wake-up call or afternoons when you want to indulge in a rich, aromatic experience.
One of the standout features is the consistency—every batch delivers the same high-quality flavor, which is rare and valuable. Plus, knowing it’s ethically sourced and produced with sustainable practices gives you extra peace of mind with each sip.
Overall, this blend strikes a perfect balance—smooth but with enough body to satisfy even discerning coffee lovers. It’s a luxurious treat that elevates your daily routine without any bitterness or harshness.
What Distinguishes a Compass Coffee Blend from Other Options?
Compass Coffee blends are distinguished by their unique flavor profiles, sourcing methods, and freshness.
- Sourcing: Single-origin vs. blended beans
- Flavor Profile: Varietals and roast levels
- Freshness: Time since roasting
- Brewing Methods: Compatibility with different styles
- Ethical Practices: Fair Trade and sustainability
Compass Coffee blends focus on quality sourcing, combining beans from specific regions to create distinct flavors.
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Sourcing: Compass Coffee emphasizes both single-origin and blended beans in their offerings. Single-origin coffee originates from one location, showcasing specific regional characteristics. Blended beans combine different origins for a balanced flavor. This custom sourcing can influence taste and aroma, appealing to various consumer preferences.
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Flavor Profile: The flavor profile of Compass Coffee blends varies based on the beans used and their roast levels. Different varietals can produce flavors ranging from fruity to nutty. Each blend can provide a unique tasting experience, highlighting different characteristics based on the beans and their roast duration. Some blends may be light and bright, while others might offer a bolder, richer taste.
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Freshness: Freshness is a crucial attribute for Compass Coffee. The time since roasting directly affects flavor quality. Compass Coffee aims to deliver freshly roasted beans. According to the Specialty Coffee Association, coffee is best consumed within two weeks of roasting for optimal flavor.
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Brewing Methods: Compass Coffee blends are designed to be versatile. They can be brewed using various methods like pour-over, French press, or espresso machines, appealing to a broad range of coffee enthusiasts. Each method can bring out different aspects of a blend’s flavor profile.
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Ethical Practices: Compass Coffee commits to ethical sourcing through Fair Trade practices and sustainability efforts. They prioritize fair compensation for farmers and invest in community projects, which can resonate with socially conscious consumers. These practices not only contribute to better coffee quality but also support the communities involved in coffee production.
Which Dark Roast Blends Are Considered Top-Rated by Coffee Enthusiasts?
Dark roast blends appreciated by coffee enthusiasts include several specific brands and blends known for their unique flavors and rich profiles.
- Starbucks’ French Roast
- Peet’s Coffee Major Dickason’s Blend
- Death Wish Coffee
- Lavazza Gran Riserva
- Intelligentsia Black Cat Classic
- Dunkin’ Donuts Original Blend
- Caribou Coffee Mahogany
- Community Coffee Dark Roast
- Starbucks’ Pike Place Roast
- Mindful Coffee’s Dark Roast
Different coffee enthusiasts have various tastes and preferences regarding dark roast blends. These preferences can be influenced by factors such as flavor intensity, origin of the beans, and roasting technique.
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Starbucks’ French Roast: Starbucks’ French Roast is a well-known dark roast blend. It features a smoky, bold flavor. The beans are roasted at high temperatures, giving it a pronounced depth. Many fans appreciate its intense aroma and strong taste, making it a staple for dark roast drinkers.
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Peet’s Coffee Major Dickason’s Blend: Peet’s Coffee Major Dickason’s Blend is another top-rated option. It is a rich, complex coffee with a blend of beans from various regions. The full-bodied flavor and balance of sweetness and acidity appeal to many coffee aficionados. The blend originated from Alfred Peet’s original recipes.
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Death Wish Coffee: Death Wish Coffee is known for its high caffeine content. It combines Arabica and Robusta beans. Its dark roast provides a strong, bold flavor. Coffee drinkers often seek it out for an energy boost, though some find the taste too intense.
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Lavazza Gran Riserva: Lavazza Gran Riserva offers a rich and aromatic experience. It includes Arabica beans with a blend of Robusta for strength. The smoothness and hints of dark chocolate and spice make it a favorite among espresso lovers.
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Intelligentsia Black Cat Classic: Intelligentsia Black Cat Classic is a unique blend. It is known for its syrupy richness and sweetness. The blend is perfect for espresso lovers. It uses high-quality beans sourced from specific regions.
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Dunkin’ Donuts Original Blend: Dunkin’ Donuts Original Blend is accessible and convenient. While not as shadowy as some dark roasts, it delivers a smooth, rich coffee experience. This blend attracts loyal fans who love its balance and familiarity, making it a go-to for many.
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Caribou Coffee Mahogany: Caribou Coffee Mahogany offers earthy, sweet notes. It contains a mix of Central and South American beans, providing a unique depth. Many coffee enthusiasts appreciate the sustainable sourcing practices of Caribou Coffee, enhancing its appeal.
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Community Coffee Dark Roast: Community Coffee Dark Roast is another popular choice. It provides a full-bodied, smooth flavor with nutty notes. Many loyal customers appreciate its consistent quality and community-oriented brand values.
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Starbucks’ Pike Place Roast: Starbucks’ Pike Place Roast is known for its well-balanced flavors. It is smooth and rich, appealing to those who prefer a milder approach while still enjoying a dark roast profile. It is often regarded as a crowd-pleaser.
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Mindful Coffee’s Dark Roast: Mindful Coffee’s Dark Roast emphasizes sustainability. It is organic and fair trade, appealing to conscious consumers. Its rich flavor profile has garnered positive reviews for being deep and satisfying.
Coffee sourcing and preparation techniques can greatly affect flavor and quality; thus, preferences can vary widely among enthusiasts.
Which Espresso Blends from Compass Coffee Are Award-Winning?
Compass Coffee offers several award-winning espresso blends. The notable ones include:
- Compass Espresso
- Mosaic
- Rooster
Each of these blends highlights distinct flavor profiles and characteristics, which appeal to different preferences. Now, let’s explore each of these award-winning espresso blends in detail.
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Compass Espresso:
The Compass Espresso blend is a signature offering that stands out for its balanced taste. This blend combines beans from various origins, resulting in a harmonious flavor. It delivers notes of chocolate and stone fruit. It is versatile, working well for both espresso shots and milk-based drinks. Compass Coffee has received accolades for this blend in numerous barista competitions, demonstrating its quality. -
Mosaic:
The Mosaic blend is known for its complex flavor profile, featuring a mix of multiple coffee beans. This blend offers bright acidity and sweetness, often characterized by citrus and berry notes. Users appreciate its vibrant taste, which changes with different brewing methods. This blend has also earned recognition for its unique flavor shifts, appealing to those who enjoy exploring diverse coffee experiences. -
Rooster:
The Rooster blend is crafted primarily for espresso drinkers who prefer a bolder profile. It has a strong, rich flavor with hints of dark chocolate and Caramel. Many consumers enjoy its robust taste when prepared as a straight shot. It has been featured in competitions for its full-bodied taste and consistency, making it a popular choice for espresso enthusiasts.
These three blends showcase the variety and quality that Compass Coffee brings to the espresso market, appealing to both casual drinkers and aficionados.
How Do Compass Coffee Blends Compare in Flavor and Quality?
| Blend Name | Flavor Profile | Quality Rating | Origin | Roast Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compass House Blend | Balanced, chocolatey notes with a hint of nuts | 4.5/5 | Blend of Central and South American beans | Medium |
| Compass Espresso | Rich, bold with caramel and brown sugar undertones | 4.6/5 | Brazilian and Colombian beans | Dark |
| Compass Decaf | Sweet, smooth with mild fruity notes | 4.2/5 | Colombian beans | Medium |
| Compass Single Origin | Floral and fruity, bright acidity | 4.7/5 | Ethiopian beans | Light |
What Notable Awards Have Compass Coffee Blends Received?
| Award Name | Year | Category | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good Food Awards | 2020 | Coffee | Awarded for outstanding coffee quality |
| Coffee Quality Institute | 2019 | Quality | Recognizes exceptional coffee quality |
| Specialty Coffee Association | 2021 | Roaster of the Year | Acknowledges excellence in roasting |
| Global Specialty Coffee Expo | 2022 | Best New Product | For innovative coffee products |
| Roast Magazine | 2018 | Top 30 Under 30 | Highlighting young leaders in the coffee industry |
What Characteristics Define a Quality Coffee Blend?
Quality coffee blends exhibit several defining characteristics, including flavor complexity, balance, aroma, and origin diversity.
- Flavor Complexity
- Balance
- Aroma
- Origin Diversity
- Freshness
- Roast Profile
- Brewing Method Compatibility
The perspectives on these characteristics can vary. Some coffee enthusiasts prioritize flavor complexity and balance, believing these to be essential for a quality blend. Others argue that freshness and roast profile are more critical in defining excellence. Likewise, personal taste can dictate whether aroma or origin diversity takes precedence.
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Flavor Complexity:
Flavor complexity refers to the range of tastes that can be perceived in a coffee blend. A quality coffee blend typically includes multiple flavor notes that can be fruity, nutty, or chocolaty. According to the Coffee Institute, well-balanced blends often possess complex flavor profiles that engage the palate. A blend from Ethiopia may feature fruity notes, while a Colombian blend may highlight nutty undertones, making the experience richer for the consumer. -
Balance:
Balance in a coffee blend means that no single flavor or characteristic dominates. A harmonious blend allows the coffee drinker to experience all the flavors at once without one overpowering the others. A study published in the Journal of Food Science (Lee et al., 2021) found that a balanced blend enhances overall drinking satisfaction. For example, a combination of Arabica beans with Robusta may provide balance due to the unique characteristics of each type. -
Aroma:
Aroma significantly influences the coffee-drinking experience. A rich aroma can enhance flavor perception and emotional responses. A study published in the journal Chemical Senses (Bult et al., 2019) indicates that aroma accounts for a large part of how individuals judge overall quality in coffee. High-quality blends typically emphasize sweet, floral, or earthy aromas that complement their flavors. -
Origin Diversity:
Origin diversity refers to sourcing coffee beans from different regions to create unique blends. Beans from various geographical areas each bring distinct attributes. For instance, beans from Brazil may ground the blend with chocolatey sweetness, while Asian beans add earthy characteristics. The combination often leads to a more dynamic flavor profile, as supported by research from the Specialty Coffee Association. -
Freshness:
Freshness is crucial for retaining the flavor and aroma of coffee. Coffee beans begin to lose their quality soon after roasting. According to the American Chemical Society, coffee is best consumed within two weeks of roasting. Quality blends use freshly roasted beans to ensure optimal flavor and aroma, providing a fresher taste experience. -
Roast Profile:
The roast profile defines how dark or light the coffee is roasted. Different roast levels can highlight or mute specific flavors. Lighter roasts might preserve more acidity and brightness, while darker roasts offer a bold, richer taste. Research from the Food Quality and Preference Journal indicates that the roast profile can significantly impact consumer preferences for coffee blends. -
Brewing Method Compatibility:
Finally, a quality coffee blend should be versatile and suitable for various brewing methods. Whether brewed as an espresso, drip coffee, or French press, the blend’s characteristics should remain appealing. A blend that performs well across different methods offers greater versatility, which can cater to diverse consumer preferences. Studies have shown that brewing methods can affect flavor extraction, influencing how a blend’s characteristics are perceived (Lozano et al., 2020).
These characteristics together help define what constitutes a quality coffee blend, catering to various consumer tastes and preferences.
How Can You Brew the Best Taste from Compass Coffee Blends?
To brew the best taste from Compass Coffee blends, ensure you use fresh coffee, the right grind size, precise water temperature, and appropriate brewing time.
Fresh coffee: Using freshly roasted coffee enhances flavor significantly. Compass Coffee recommends using beans within two to four weeks of roast date for optimal taste. Fresh beans retain essential oils and aromas that diminish over time.
Grind size: The grind size affects the extraction process. For drip brewing, a medium grind is ideal, while a coarse grind works best for French press. A consistently sized grind allows for even extraction, leading to a balanced flavor profile.
Water temperature: The ideal water temperature for brewing coffee is between 195°F and 205°F (90°C to 96°C). Brewing with water that is too cold can result in under-extraction, while water that is too hot can cause over-extraction. This temperature range maximizes the solubility of flavors.
Brewing time: The brewing time varies depending on the method used. For example, brewing time should be around 4-5 minutes for a French press and about 3-4 minutes for pour-over methods. Adjusting the brewing time influences the flavor intensity. Shorter brewing may result in a lighter taste, while longer brewing can yield a stronger flavor.
Water quality: Clean, filtered water is crucial for coffee brewing. Water should be free of impurities and odors that can interfere with the coffee’s natural flavors. Compass Coffee suggests using water with a balanced mineral content for the best results.
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