Coffee science in action - SmartRef & the NEW Coffee Meister App

From roasting the bean to the final coffee cup, countless parameters influence its taste and quality. To not only test these factors by sensory but also make them measurable, I brought our SmartRef to a coffee tasting at a well-known roastery in our city. This provided interesting insights into the measurement of TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) and coffee extraction.

It all started with an invitation to a coffee-tasting evening

When I found out that a well-known roastery in our city was offering a coffee tasting, I was immediately thrilled. This was THE opportunity to present our SmartRef Digital Refractometer along with our new Coffee Meister app and to test it for different types of coffee preparation. Excited and full of anticipation, I signed up for this tasting. The baristas at the roastery were curious and excited when they heard that I would be measuring the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS*) and extraction yield of the different coffee preparations. Sensory tasting of coffee is essential, but an actual measurement that confirms that the coffee is well prepared adds a layer of validation. This gives us not only a subjective opinion but also an objective measurement to verify whether the coffee is strong or weak and how well the coffee extraction worked.

Behind the beans at the roastery

The roastery currently roasts around 200-250 kg of coffee per day from Monday to Friday in a ratio of around 80% Arabica and 20% Robusta. They bottle various types of coffee and also sell exquisite coffee grinders and machines. In addition, you can buy and drink their coffee specialties in the coffee shop attached to the roastery.

Mastering TDS measurements with SmartRef and Coffee Meister app

During the tasting, we evaluated different coffee preparations such as cupping, filter coffee, and different espresso strengths as well as different types of coffee. The TDS values ​​we measured were in line with our expectations: very low TDS for cupping, medium TDS for filter coffee, and high for espresso. This validated what we experienced through our taste buds—now supported by measurable data. In addition, we were able to determine the corresponding extraction rate ​​using the extraction calculator integrated into the app. The baristas were delighted and were eager to spend the rest of the evening making and measuring coffee.

Typical measured TDS values:

Why is the TDS measurement important?

The TDS value indicates how many dissolved solids are present in the coffee and significantly impacts the taste. A TDS value that is too low can indicate under-extraction, resulting in a thin and sour taste. Conversely, a value that is too high can indicate over-extraction, resulting in a bitter and unpleasant taste. The ideal balance varies depending on the brewing method.

Precise control of this value is crucial for maintaining the consistency and quality of the final product.

The NEW Coffee Meister app - precision for your perfect coffee enjoyment

For true coffee lovers, measuring and understanding the total dissolved solids (TDS) content in a brew is an important step in assessing coffee quality and refining the brewing process. The new Coffee Meister app makes this process very simple, precise, and insightful more than ever before.

Using the Coffee Meister app in addition to SmartRef, it is not only possible to determine the TDS content with a remarkable precision of ± 0.03 %TDS and a resolution of 0.01 %TDS, but also have access to additional features such as the integrated extraction calculator. Three different calculators, adapted to the respective coffee preparation method, help users to fine-tune their extraction process. This depth of insight into coffee preparation empowers baristas, roasters, and home brewers to optimize their brews, ensuring consistency and a perfectly balanced flavor in every cup. As a result, the Coffee Meister app becomes an indispensable tool for those who not only enjoy coffee but also seek to truly understand it.

Conclusion

The visit to the roastery demonstrated the value of using the SmartRef digital refractometer in combination with the Coffee Meister app. Both the roastery owners and the workshop participants were impressed by the ease of use, speed, and accuracy.

By regularly measuring the total dissolved solids (TDS) content, roasters can ensure consistent and high-quality coffees for their customers. The ability to measure the extract content of the coffee allows baristas to optimize their recipes based on precise data, which helps maintain flavor consistency across different batches and brewing methods.

Integrating digital TDS measurement into the daily workflow makes quality control easier, more efficient, and more reliable – ensuring that every cup of coffee meets the highest standards.

With SmartRef we were able to objectively measure the quality and consistency of the coffee and provide initial insights into the analytical control of the brewing process.

I am already looking forward to the next tasting - I will certainly be there again...and my SmartRef with the Coffee Meister app, too 😊