A research team in Taiwan has successfully developed a system that can accurately identify differences in coffee aromas by combining artificial intelligence algorithms with electronic nose technology. The system achieves an accuracy rate ranging from 81% to 98%. This technology can assist in quality assessment when a barista’s senses are impaired, and it holds potential for future application in quality verification across the entire coffee industry chain. The research team has also simultaneously developed an electronic tongue, electronic eye, and tactile system, aiming to comprehensively cover all aspects of coffee quality control. [more…]

The European Union’s Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR) will take effect in 2025, requiring imported agricultural products such as coffee to prove they are not linked to deforestation. This has profound implications for smallholder-dependent countries like Timor-Leste that rely heavily on coffee exports. This article delves into how the new regulation impacts Timor-Leste’s coffee industry, explores the compliance challenges faced by smallholder farmers, and analyzes potential imbalances in global market supply. It also provides useful background information and guidance for response strategies. [more…]

Tanzania’s coffee cultivation history dates back to the 16th century, blending native Ethiopian varieties with those introduced during the colonial period such as Typica and Bourbon, and further giving rise to disease-resistant improved varieties like KP423. This article delves into the development trajectory of Tanzania’s coffee industry—from the research achievements of TaCRI, the connection between SL28 and Geisha, to the brewing parameters and citrus-berries flavor profile of washed beans from the Kilimanjaro volcanic region—offering you a comprehensive understanding of the diversity and practical insights of African specialty coffee. [more…]

Have you ever experienced weak flavor or astringency in your pour over coffee, but couldn't figure out why? It might be due to "channeling" at play. While commonly associated with espresso, uneven water flow during pour over brewing can also create channels that negatively affect the overall flavor. This article will take an in-depth look at the causes of channeling in pour over coffee and provide practical prevention and adjustment methods to help improve your extraction stability and coffee taste. [more…]

The flowing sand iced americano has become a highlight of creative coffee in recent years, thanks to its mesmerizing sandy visual effect in the cup. But what sets it apart from a regular iced americano? This article explores the science behind how the “flowing sand” effect is formed, and introduces three common and practical methods to make it—using a steam wand, French press, or manual/electric frother—so you can easily create this beautiful and layered iced coffee at home. [more…]

As Manner expands its nationwide presence to over 1,000 stores, consumers can finally enjoy high-value coffee in more locations. However, this brand, known for its lean staffing model, is now facing a severe labor shortage. To cope, Manner has been aggressively recruiting daily-paid part-timers responsible for packing, restocking, and cleaning — dubbed "packers." Yet these temporary workers have high turnover rates and lack proper training, forcing full-time baristas to repeatedly train them during busy hours, significantly increasing their stress. This article delves into [more…]

A seaside café in Qingdao recently became embroiled in an online controversy when a self-identified university student tourist accused café staff of indirectly ejecting and verbally abusing them, sparking widespread discussion. However, after the business clarified the situation, the narrative reversed, highlighting the divergence between consumers’ and businesses’ expectations regarding seat occupancy and consumption. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the incident and explores the real challenges faced by cafés in tourist spots, as well as the boundaries of service, helping readers understand common misconceptions in similar situations. [more…]

Many coffee enthusiasts are concerned about caffeine intake and often hear claims such as "dark roast has more caffeine" or "light roast has more caffeine," but are these statements accurate? This article will comprehensively dissect the key factors influencing caffeine content—from bean genetics and roast stages to brewing variables—while also providing practical data and operational details to help you choose the right coffee beans and brewing method based on your needs. [more…]

Originally investing 2 million in decoration and choosing a prime location to open a 120-square-meter café, the owner was met with a staggering monthly loss of 40K. Seeking solutions through an online poll, 80% of netizens advised cutting losses early—but the owner decided to hold on for four more months to adjust strategy. This article dissects the backstory of this high-investment venture, public opinions for and against, and offers actionable strategies for turning losses into profits—covering product mix, business hours, atmosphere building, and other practical aspects—for small and medium-sized café operators. [more…]

The globally renowned specialty coffee brand, Blue Bottle Coffee, has expanded its retail presence into an airport setting for the first time by opening at Shanghai Pudong Airport’s Terminal 2, establishing its first official airport store worldwide. This location primarily offers takeaway services without any seating area, and features a vending machine offering instant coffee and classic coffee bean options for the first time. The new site happens to be the previous location of Starbucks, which has sparked discussions among many travelers and online users. This article will take you through the design philosophy, service model of this distinctive store, as well as customer feedback and the brand's expansion strategy. [more…]

When chain brands launch a price war with 9.9-yuan offerings, how can independent coffee shops survive in the cracks? This article delves into pricing strategies that maintain quality without relying on high-end decor, through real-life case studies and operator experiences. It also shares practical tips for reducing costs, helping small coffee shop owners find a path to survival that suits them. [more…]

Starbucks recently launched a new collaborative drink called the "Liquid Cold Latte," claiming inspiration from ginger milk tea. It is said to naturally form a layered, frozen effect during delivery, delivering a unique taste experience. However, consumer reviews are mixed—some praise its smoothness, likening it to double skin milk, while others feel it’s no different from a regular latte. This article compiles user experiences, analyzes whether the layered effect is real, and introduces the limited-edition golden cudgel-shaped straw released alongside the drink, helping readers understand the full picture of this trending beverage. [more…]

Guatemalan coffee achieved outstanding export results of $944 million in the 2022–2023 season, solidifying its position as the country’s top agricultural export. Despite facing global market fluctuations and climate challenges, the industry remains optimistic about prospects for 2024. With the official implementation of the free trade agreement with South Korea, the export market has gained additional momentum. This article takes you through Guatemala’s global coffee distribution, key buyer distribution, and how the new trade agreement enhances international competitiveness. [more…]

Indonesia’s Sumatra is one of the world’s most renowned specialty coffee regions, particularly famous for Mandheling. This article provides an in-depth look at the characteristics of Sumatra’s three major coffee-growing areas, the origins of the Mandheling name, the truth about the Ateng variety, and a detailed introduction to Indonesia’s unique wet-hulling processing method. It also explores the flavor profiles and pour over recommendations for two classic Mandheling coffee beans, making it an essential guide for coffee enthusiasts looking to understand this region and processing method. [more…]

Have you ever wondered why ordering a single-origin espresso (SOE) at a café is often a few yuan more expensive than a regular blended bean option? This article takes an in-depth look at the pricing logic behind SOE — from bean variety selection, roasting methods, cost structures, to key extraction techniques — helping you understand how single-origin coffee beans showcase their unique flavors and why they hold a special place in specialty coffee. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of how to choose the coffee beans that best suit your taste. [more…]

Following the phenomenal success of the sauce-flavoured latte, rumours continue to swirl about another collaboration between Luckin Coffee and Moutai, this time centred around the "Year of the Dragon Sauce-Flavoured Chocolate." The similar formula has sparked heated discussion online, with some questioning whether it’s a marketing ploy to clear inventory, while others are excited about the new flavour. What kind of market strategy lies behind this new product? How does it differ from traditional collaborations? This article will delve into the business logic and consumer reactions behind it. [more…]

Amid the coffee collaboration trend in early 2024, Peet's Coffee partnered with the Dunhuang Museum to launch limited-edition merchandise and beverages. However, consumers reported a significant gap between the appearance of the whipped cream topped hot drinks and their promotional images, as well as issues with easy collapse. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the design highlights of the collaboration products, practical experience issues, and offers solutions to common quality pain points of whipped cream topped beverages, helping readers understand the production challenges of hot drink whipped toppings and manage consumer expectations. [more…]

The latest forecast from the International Coffee Organization (ICO) indicates that global coffee production is expected to rebound by nearly 6% in the 2023/24 season, reaching 178 million bags. After experiencing stagnant growth and declining consumption in the 2022/23 season, what new opportunities lie ahead for the global coffee market as weather conditions shift and economies recover? This article provides an in-depth analysis of regional performance, consumption trends, and supply-demand balance, helping you stay on top of the latest industry developments. [more…]

Delve into the evolving cultivation environment and key variety characteristics of Guatemalan coffee, from its historical roots in the 18th century to the development of its diverse cultivars today. This article takes you on an exploration of the solid foundation of the country’s coffee industry. It also focuses on the Famosa coffee beans from La Minita Estate in Antigua, analyzing the washed processing traits of its Bourbon and Caturra hybrid, and providing practical V60 pour over parameters and flavor evaluation benchmarks to help you master advanced tasting essentials. [more…]

The Bingtong B75 is a flat-bottomed filter cone jointly launched by Li Jinlong and Taimo in 2022. With its 5cm large drainage hole and 75° cone angle design, it creates an extraction environment with stable flow rate and even coffee bed. This article analyzes, through hot and iced brew practical tests, how it enhances the sweetness and clarity of coffee, and provides beginner-friendly operation tips and key parameters. [more…]