Most people know by now that coffee beans come in different sizes. But the density of coffee beans also varies. It's further influenced by growing regions and conditions, altitude, processing, and of course, roasting. Knowing the density of coffee beans can also help determine the grind size and ultimately improve the taste. We'll now explain exactly what's behind this and how you can use this knowledge about coffee bean density. Enjoy reading!
What is the density of coffee beans?
The density of coffee beans is calculated according to physical principles. It is the ratio of mass to volume. Therefore: p = m/V or, adapted to coffee beans: p = g/ml. Heavier beans consequently have a higher density than lighter or porous beans.
What factors influence the density of coffee beans?
1. Bean variety:
Arabica beans tend to be denser than Robusta beans. This is typical of the variety and is also influenced by the higher altitudes at which they are grown.
2. Mounting height:
Beans grown at higher altitudes are denser. This is because the cooler temperatures allow them a longer ripening period, resulting in a more compact growth habit. These so-called highland beans are also considered to be of higher quality, as they develop more complex flavors.
3. Processing:
The processing method of coffee can also influence its density. For example, washed beans are often denser than beans dried naturally, i.e., in the fruit pulp. This is because washed beans dry evenly. Beans that remain in the coffee cherry dry less evenly, as the pulp can penetrate the porous structure of the still-moist coffee bean.
4. Roasting:
Darker roasted beans have a lower density than lighter roasted beans because they lose more water and CO2. They also increase in volume.
The importance of coffee bean density
Understanding the density of coffee beans allows you to take physical laws into account and achieve a better roasting result. This knowledge also affects the grinding process and, of course, the brewing process. We'll explain exactly how:
1. Roasting:
Beans with a higher density absorb heat more slowly during the roasting process. Therefore, they require a longer roasting time to develop their flavors and avoid burning. Beans with a higher density also roast more evenly and are less likely to remain underdeveloped.
2. Grind setting:
Beans with a higher density grind more evenly. Knowing this, it follows that the grind setting needs to be readjusted from time to time depending on the type of bean. This naturally leads to a better taste experience – unfortunately, one grind setting doesn't work for all beans.
3. Extraction:
Denser beans tend to be more aromatic because they contain more aroma and flavor components. They also tend to require a longer brewing time to allow the aromas to fully develop.
And how do you measure the density of coffee beans?
The simplest way to quickly check the density of coffee beans is the flotation test. Dense coffee beans sink to the bottom. Beans floating on top are often of lower quality. However, the coffee industry also offers specialized density meters that can precisely determine the density of coffee beans. These allow roasting profiles to be individually tailored to each batch.
Does the density of coffee beans say anything about the quality?
Here, it's important to distinguish whether the density differences are due to natural factors such as different varieties, altitude, processing, and roasting. However, beans with very low density can also indicate the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers to achieve rapid growth. Rapid growth reduces density because the structures within the bean cherry have less time to develop.
Conclusion
The density of coffee beans is a fascinating topic that every coffee enthusiast should explore in more detail. It helps the roaster determine the quality of the beans and find the optimal roasting profile. For the consumer, it helps to perfectly extract the aromas. At the same time, it also indicates that the coffee bean was grown under optimal conditions, harvested at the right time, and carefully processed. You see, sometimes you can still use school physics in everyday life, and it's even exciting! Have you ever thought about the density of coffee beans?
Your SIMON&BEARNS Team
The density of coffee beans
Most people know by now that coffee beans come in different sizes. But the density of coffee beans also varies. It's further influenced by growing regions and conditions, altitude, processing, and of course, roasting. Knowing the density of coffee beans can also help determine the grind size and ultimately improve the taste. We'll now explain exactly what's behind this and how you can use this knowledge about coffee bean density. Enjoy reading!
What is the density of coffee beans?
The density of coffee beans is calculated according to physical principles. It is the ratio of mass to volume. Therefore: p = m/V or, adapted to coffee beans: p = g/ml. Heavier beans consequently have a higher density than lighter or porous beans.
What factors influence the density of coffee beans?
1. Bean variety:
Arabica beans tend to be denser than Robusta beans. This is typical of the variety and is also influenced by the higher altitudes at which they are grown.
2. Mounting height:
Beans grown at higher altitudes are denser. This is because the cooler temperatures allow them a longer ripening period, resulting in a more compact growth habit. These so-called highland beans are also considered to be of higher quality, as they develop more complex flavors.
3. Processing:
The processing method of coffee can also influence its density. For example, washed beans are often denser than beans dried naturally, i.e., in the fruit pulp. This is because washed beans dry evenly. Beans that remain in the coffee cherry dry less evenly, as the pulp can penetrate the porous structure of the still-moist coffee bean.
4. Roasting:
Darker roasted beans have a lower density than lighter roasted beans because they lose more water and CO2. They also increase in volume.
The importance of coffee bean density
Understanding the density of coffee beans allows you to take physical laws into account and achieve a better roasting result. This knowledge also affects the grinding process and, of course, the brewing process. We'll explain exactly how:
1. Roasting:
Beans with a higher density absorb heat more slowly during the roasting process. Therefore, they require a longer roasting time to develop their flavors and avoid burning. Beans with a higher density also roast more evenly and are less likely to remain underdeveloped.
2. Grind setting:
Beans with a higher density grind more evenly. Knowing this, it follows that the grind setting needs to be readjusted from time to time depending on the type of bean. This naturally leads to a better taste experience – unfortunately, one grind setting doesn't work for all beans.
3. Extraction:
Denser beans tend to be more aromatic because they contain more aroma and flavor components. They also tend to require a longer brewing time to allow the aromas to fully develop.
And how do you measure the density of coffee beans?
The simplest way to quickly check the density of coffee beans is the flotation test. Dense coffee beans sink to the bottom. Beans floating on top are often of lower quality. However, the coffee industry also offers specialized density meters that can precisely determine the density of coffee beans. These allow roasting profiles to be individually tailored to each batch.
Does the density of coffee beans say anything about the quality?
Here, it's important to distinguish whether the density differences are due to natural factors such as different varieties, altitude, processing, and roasting. However, beans with very low density can also indicate the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers to achieve rapid growth. Rapid growth reduces density because the structures within the bean cherry have less time to develop.
Conclusion
The density of coffee beans is a fascinating topic that every coffee enthusiast should explore in more detail. It helps the roaster determine the quality of the beans and find the optimal roasting profile. For the consumer, it helps to perfectly extract the aromas. At the same time, it also indicates that the coffee bean was grown under optimal conditions, harvested at the right time, and carefully processed. You see, sometimes you can still use school physics in everyday life, and it's even exciting! Have you ever thought about the density of coffee beans?
Your SIMON&BEARNS Team