As coffee consumption expanded globally, distinct processing methods developed ______ whereas the "washed" process was preferred in Latin America for its clarity, the "natural" process was favored in Ethiopia for its fruitiness.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
developed, and
developed and
developed:
developed,
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. A colon is used to introduce an explanation or example that elaborates on the preceding clause. Here, the comparison between Latin American and Ethiopian processes explains the "distinct methods" mentioned earlier.
Choice A is incorrect because the second part is not a standard independent clause sequence that flows with "and." Choice B is incorrect because it creates a fused sentence structure. Choice D is incorrect because a comma is too weak to separate the general statement from the detailed explanation; a colon is the standard convention here.