The story of the invention of the coffee filter

Erfindung-des-Papierkaffeefilter-Brew-Batch

The invention of the coffee filter was arguably the biggest turning point in coffee history. It not only changed how coffee was prepared, but also revolutionized its taste and marked the beginning of a global coffee culture. It's no wonder that a good filter coffee is considered the pinnacle of the specialty coffee community. So let's delve a little deeper into the history of the coffee filter – enjoy!

The invention of the coffee filter

In 1908, Melitta Bentz invented the modern coffee filter. The housewife from Dresden was frustrated by the bitter taste and coffee grounds that were present in every cup of coffee at the time. The then-common method of brewing with a linen bag was far too messy for her. So she began searching for a solution and experimented. Her goal: a clean, clear beverage with delicious aromas. Her solution: she perforated a brass pot, lined it with blotting paper from her son's school notebooks, and placed the coffee grounds inside. Her idea worked, and the paper coffee filter was born!

Melitta's invention was so well received that she and her husband Hugo decided to found "Melitta Bentz KG." They patented Melitta's invention and very soon began producing the optimized paper coffee filter. The invention of the coffee filter not only revolutionized the taste of coffee, but also made preparation significantly easier and more convenient—just as the spirit of the times demanded of inventions! Even today, products from Melitta Bentz KG are widely used in many kitchens. 

Invention of the Coffee Filter Brewing Batch

What impact did the invention of the coffee filter have?

Taste improvement:

The overall taste experience was significantly improved by the paper coffee filter. It allowed for a clear, pure cup of coffee, free of coffee grounds. As a result, more and more people became enthusiastic about coffee.

Accessibility:

The paper coffee filter made brewing easier and more hygienic. More and more households wanted to drink coffee and show that they were keeping up with the times.

Coffee revolution:

The Melitta Bentz paper coffee filter inspired others to experiment with coffee preparation and laid the foundation for the many inventions in the coffee community.

What is the significance of the paper coffee filter today?

Environmental aspect:

From an environmental perspective, a bleached paper coffee filter isn't the best choice. There are many alternatives, such as metal, cloth, or bamboo filters. Compostable paper filters are also available, which, along with the coffee grounds, can simply be thrown onto the compost heap or organic waste bin. However, in terms of taste, the white paper filter remains unsurpassed.

Wide range of choices:

Since presentation is also important, there are many visually appealing options for preparing filter coffee. Depending on the desired aromas and flavor profiles, porcelain or stainless steel filters are also a good option.

Further development of the paper coffee filter:

The basic principle remains the same, as invented by Melitta Bentz in 1908. However, continuous improvements in the quality of the materials also lead to a continuous improvement in the coffee experience.

Brewing batch coffee filter filter coffee

H3: Where are paper coffee filters used?

Coffee machines:

Who doesn't know them: filter coffee machines. Whether in the office or at home, almost everyone has one. For optimal taste, it's important to choose a high-quality model and clean it regularly. If you prefer something a bit more premium, consider buying a Mocca-Master – it's an amazing filter coffee machine!

Pour-over method:

In this method of coffee preparation, coffee is placed in a filter and then manually steeped with water. The Hario filter and the Chemex are well-known examples.

Aeropress:

Although it's also a pour-over method, it's so unique that we want to explain it separately. The coffee filter paper here isn't the typical shape, but "only" a round sheet. However, it performs its function according to the same principle, just with considerable pressure behind it. Therefore, it's also more durable.

Conclusion:

Even more than 100 years after Melitta Bentz invented the coffee filter, it remains one of the most important inventions in the coffee world. World Championships are even held annually to determine who can prepare the best filter coffee – batch brew, in this case. We also love a delicious filter coffee; nowhere else can you filter out and taste the aromas so clearly. In our shop , you'll find an overview of our filter coffees. Are you as enthusiastic as we are? How do you prepare your filter coffee? 

Your SIMON&BEARNS Team

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