Oops, you probably did not yet taste specialty coffee. That's like only having tasted one kind of red wine but never different grapes, white wine, orange wine, sparkling wine. Just like wine and beer, the world of coffee is super diverse. From the Nutty and Chocolaty flavours associated with Brazilian coffee, the Earthy and Spicy flavours associated with Indonesian coffee to the floral, delicate, black tea like flavors associated with a washed Ethiopian coffee. 

Coffee gets it's initial flavor from the variety of the berry (the bean is the seed of the coffee cherry, a fruit!), the terroir and the processing. 

It's possible that your coffee experience has been limited to commercial blends, which often mix together 15 to 30 different single origin coffees. These blends are crafted for consistency, ensuring that you know exactly what to expect with each cup. While this may seem convenient, it can also lead to a rather uninspiring experience. Imagine only ever drinking one type of tea—wouldn't you crave the excitement of exploring diverse flavors and aromas? Embrace the world of single origin coffees and discover a whole new realm of taste!

Too much of the coffee available today is dull and bitter. Treat yourself to the exceptional flavor you truly deserve.

Did you know that more than 90% of the aroma from ground coffee vanishes within just 15 minutes of grinding? This is why it's crucial to grind your coffee right before you brew it. As a result, the last two-thirds of a bag of pre-ground coffee often tastes much less enjoyable than the first third in the days following the opening of a fresh bag.

Freshly grinding coffee is a cherished practice that our grandmothers embraced. It’s a straightforward task that will soon integrate into your coffee routine. Enjoy this peaceful moment of contemplation and mindfulness as you eagerly await a delightful brew.

Hand-operated grinders are fantastic for your coffee-making routine and are priced between 50 and 500. Their quietness is a significant advantage, especially if you have a baby napping or a partner who is on an important phone call.

Think of hand grinding as a quick exercise, and it will soon turn into a routine, much like choosing to take the stairs over the escalator or lift.

Electric grinders provide a faster grinding experience, with good models starting at about 150. We recommend the Moccamaster KM5, which is handmade in the Netherlands, comes with a 5-year warranty, and is designed for repairability, with spare parts available from WB.coffee.

Among the more visually striking grinders is the popular Fellow Ode brew grinder. It delivers solid performance and is a good investment, but its production in China and the lack of available replacement parts are notable drawbacks.

Coffee Grinders

Cafestol is present in high amounts in certain coffee types, such as espresso, French press, and Turkish coffee, which can elevate LDL cholesterol levels. In contrast, coffee brewed with a fine paper filter significantly reduces cafestol content, making it a healthier choice.

No need to worry; caffeine flows through paper filters, which means filter coffee actually has more caffeine than espresso and energy drinks! It's compatible with a low cholesterol diet and can help in preventing diabetes, particularly when compared to coffee made with metal filters.

Low in calories: high-quality filter coffee is best enjoyed without any additives like milk or sugar, making it a healthy choice (up to 5 cups daily). A typical serving of filter coffee has approximately 2 kcal per 250ml.

Hydration benefits: with over 98% water content, filter coffee hydrates the body nearly as effectively as pure water does.

Loaded with flavonoids (Polyphenols): for the greatest health advantages, filter coffee is a better choice (91.4 mg/serving) than espresso (28 mg/serving). These same advantageous compounds are found in red wine, fruits, and vegetables.​

More tips from the CoffeeNose👃

Who wants a nasty paper taste in their coffee? 

While all paper filters can introduce unpleasant tastes to your coffee, white paper filters are known to minimize these negative flavor effects the most.

Test it yourself if you don't believe the CoffeeNose👃...

• Take a brown and a white filter and make a little ball out of them. 
• Grab 2 cups. 
• Place each filter in a cup and pour hot water over them. 
• Let it cool... 
• smell and taste the difference.

The difference between our coffee and your old coffee is just as significant. Go for flavor and treat yourself to the tasty coffee blends from WB.coffee.

White filters are now bleached with oxygen, without chemicals.

People often think that brown filters are more natural and better. That's nonsense. Just like brown eggs versus white eggs, that's a myth!

Do you like tasting tests, experiencing different flavors and drinking tasty coffee?

Join a workshop, masterclas or tasting experience @ Amsterdam Coffee Lab.

More tips from the CoffeeNose👃

Acrylamide is a chemical that is produced naturally during the roasting of coffee beans. But why should we be concerned? Since 2002, the detection of acrylamide in various food products, including coffee, has been a topic of investigation due to its potential health risks, which may include carcinogenic effects and possible damage to the nervous system.

Acrylamide forms in coffee due to the Maillard Reaction, a process that involves the interaction of sugars and amino acids, notably Asparagine, at high temperatures. This reaction not only contributes to the unique color and flavor profile of coffee beans but also results in the formation of acrylamide, which is less pleasant in comparison.

Which Type of Coffee Contains the Least Acrylamide?

Extending the roasting time at lower temperatures results in a reduction of harmful compounds in coffee. Many commercial blends and supermarket brands tend to be roasted quickly, as longer roasting processes require more time and consequently increase costs.

Arabica coffee beans produce the least amount of Acrylamide, making a slow, artisanal roasting process preferable as it results in lower Acrylamide levels. Consequently, standard espresso blends tend to have the lowest Acrylamide concentrations as they are often roasted longer than filter coffee blends.

While instant coffee has a lower caffeine content, it actually contains nearly double the amount of Acrylamide compared to regular coffee. The elevated Acrylamide levels are considered minimal and safe for consumption.

When choosing coffee capsules, it's important to pay attention to the type of beans and the roasting method used. Most commercial blends, supermarket capsules and big brands (yes also the Clooney) typically involve rapid heating, which can increase Acrylamide levels. 

Likewise, with coffee pads, the coarseness of the grind is crucial, as finer grounds can lead to a greater extraction of compounds into the brewed coffee.

More tips from the CoffeeNose👃

What can be worse than a runny, snotty nose when you are hosting a cupping, doing QC work or going for sensory exams? Right a runny... 

A runny nose is a common issue, especially during cold and flu season, and can last up to 10-14 days. It is caused by various triggers, including allergens, viruses, cold air, and environmental irritants like fragrances and pollution. Identifying the cause is key to effective treatment.

Common Causes & Symptoms

• Allergies (e.g., pollen, pet dander, dust) typically cause clear mucus, sneezing, and itchy eyes but no fever.
• Viral infections (e.g., colds, flu, COVID-19) often lead to thicker yellowish mucus, congestion, fever, body aches, and fatigue.
• Irritants (e.g., strong scents, pollution, cold air) can also trigger nasal inflammation and mucus production.

Remedies for a Runny Nose

Medications:

• For allergies: Antihistamines like Flonase, Nasacort, or Azelastine help reduce inflammation and mucus.
• For viral infections: Decongestants such as Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) or Afrin (oxymetazoline spray) shrink nasal blood vessels to relieve congestion. However, nasal sprays should be used for no more than 3-5 days to avoid rebound congestion.

Non-Medication Remedies:

• Saline Nasal Spray or Neti Pot: Helps flush out allergens and irritants while keeping nasal passages moist.
• Steam Inhalation & Humidifiers: Taking a hot shower or using a cool-mist humidifier can help loosen mucus and prevent nasal dryness.
• Hydration & Rest: Drinking plenty of fluids thins mucus, making it easier to clear. Sleeping with an elevated head helps with drainage.

Prevention Tips

• Avoid known allergens and irritants (e.g., dust, pet dander, smoke).
• Use air purifiers to reduce indoor allergens.
• Wash hands frequently to prevent viral infections.
• Dress warmly in cold weather to reduce nasal irritation.
• Limit fragrance exposure from candles and cleaning products.

When to See a Doctor

If symptoms persist beyond 10 days, worsen, or include high fever, severe sinus pain, or difficulty breathing, a sinus infection or another condition may be present, requiring medical attention.

By using these remedies and preventive measures, you can manage a runny nose effectively and minimize discomfort during allergy season or viral outbreaks.

I personally find the Neti Pot to be incredibly beneficial. Dealing with dust allergies has been a challenge for me, but maintaining a clean bedroom and promptly checking hotel air conditioning filters upon arrival, along with using a Neti Pot, has proven to be effective and much more economical than saline nasal sprays.

Some of my go-to natural remedies include propolis spray, which honey bees use to protect their hives from infections and mold. I also enjoy sipping on Salvia (Sage) tea with freshly grated ginger. For severe flu symptoms, chewing on raw ginger can be quite effective, and placing a cut onion by your bedside works wonders, though it might not be the best for your love life...

Consuming more vitamin C through fresh lemon juice is effective, and at the first sign of a flu, I take ibuprofen in the morning and evening, which usually prevents the flu from developing.

​

More tips from the CoffeeNose👃

Milk in coffee may seem appealing, but it often masks the harsh bitterness and astringent feel of subpar dark roast blends. By sweetening and adding milk, these drinks are cleverly marketed at exorbitant prices—three to five times that of a pure black espresso or filter coffee. This strategy not only enriches commercial coffee brands but also fuels the alarming rise in obesity and diabetes. It's time to reconsider what we’re really paying for in our coffee choices! 

• • Ensure that your Moka pot is free from any coffee residue. Residual oils can accumulate and turn rancid over time. Consider using a specialized coffee oil cleaner for this purpose. 

• • Pick a coffee that matches your preferences. Steer clear of supermarket brands and large corporations; their coffee is often stale and lacks character, and they frequently disregard the well-being of farmers and the planet.

• • Make it a habit to grind your coffee fresh using a (hand) grinder. This small investment can greatly enhance your coffee ritual. Pre-ground coffee often has many broken beans and other remnants that aren't suitable for whole bean brewing, which you should avoid. Aim for a fine grind, but don't hesitate to switch to a coarser grind when needed.

• • Pour water into the bottom chamber of the moka pot until it reaches about two-thirds full, ensuring you don't exceed the safety valve level. It's best to use warm water, but be cautious to avoid burning your fingers when placing the funnel and screwing on the top section. Using hot water minimizes the time the ground coffee is exposed to heat, resulting in a more flavorful brew.

• • Place the funnel in position and pour in the ground coffee. Use a funnel or a dosing cup to avoid spills. 

• • Secure the lid tightly and place it on your heat source. Use medium heat to avoid flames licking the sides of your moka pot.
    

• • As soon as you hear a hissing sound (sizzling noise), take it off the heat source.

• • Pour a small amount of coffee into a cup, let it cool for a moment, then taste it before proceeding to the final two steps
    




• • If your coffee tastes too intense, consider using slightly less coffee or opting for a coarser grind. Feel free to add either cold or hot water, based on your preferred drinking temperature. You can also create a long black by adding your coffee to water.

• •  If your coffee isn't strong enough, try increasing the amount of coffee or using a finer grind.

Hooray, your new coffee ritual has been born! It's time to embark on a journey of tasting different coffee blends and single origin coffees. Delve into the rich offerings that the world of coffee presents. 

Many conventional moka pot blends feature inferior robusta beans, which impart a significant amount of flavor. The resulting brew is often referred to as strong, but it can also be quite bitter and harsh. This bitterness leads many to add sugar to their coffee. By choosing a blend that is 100% arabica and made from specialty beans, you can enjoy a sweeter and more refined beverage without the need to add sugar. 

If you don't have a grinder and want to try specialty coffee pre-ground for Moka, we suggest you try the Italian brand Le Piantagioni Del Caffe

Your strong moka pot coffee can be used in drinks (try adding it to freshly squeezed orange juice!) and deserts....tiramisu of course, bananbread with coffee, affagato with vanilla icecream, get creative and don't forget to share your best recepies with us!

Share your best recipies 🙏

With more and more news of micoplastics found everywhere including inside human brains you might want to avoid plastic. Plastic is migrating in oil and heating "food safe" plastic is not a good idea. Wether it is called Tritan or Polycarbonate it is an oil (pertoleum) derivate. BPA free doesn't mean healthy. Heating plastics is a bad idea. 

Plastic fantastic: 

• Paper to-go coffee cups always have a plastic lining inside to make it waterproof ➡ Avoid - bring your own reusable cup or thermos 
• Nespresso and other capsule machines ➡ Avoid - they all have plastic brewing chambers (biodegradable capsules don't help here)
• Full automatic "espresso" and filter coffee machines ➡ Avoid - they all have plastic parts 
• Many water kettles have plastic parts ➡ Avoid - choose an all SS/Glass water kettle 
• Many insulated thermos servers have plastic parts ➡ Avoid - choose an all SS/Glass water kettle 
• Aeropress, Tricolate, Hoop, Clever

Plastic free: 

• Coffee Syphon Hario 
• Glass, SS & Ceramic coffee drippers (V60, Kalita, Loveramics, etc)
• Chemex
• ChaCha Kyusu-Maru tea makers with SS filter 
• SS tea balls and thongs
• Fellow Corvo & Stagg water kettles 
• Brewista Artisan water kettles 
• Hario Buono water kettles
• 
  
• 
  

Maybe you have heard about plastic in tea bags...? Well it's the same like kitchen towels vs toilet paper. TP breaks and falls apart when wetted. Kitchen towels have a binder to make sure the fibers stick together. Paper coffee filters need a longs, strong fiber structure to stay intact when getting wet. This makes them more expensive compared to kitchen towels. I would however not trust many paper coffee filters when it comes to binders. 

Do you have questions or see omissions in this list? Hit the chat button or contact us.

more tips from the CoffeeNose👃

Today, premium tea and coffee are often transported in bulk using plastic liner bags, which are typically recycled at best. While this practice is not the most sustainable, the potential health risks associated with microplastics are minimal since the raw products remain cool and dry, thereby limiting the chances of microplastics leaching into them. 

After roasting coffee is often packed in recyclable plastic bags. Here the risks of microplastic migration is increasing, especially with darker roasts where the oils are largely pushed out to the surface of the roasted coffee bean. 

Aluminim bags are 100% recyclable, but are energy intense so not very sustainable. Aluminium does provide 100% microplastic free packaging. 

Most bags contain also printing or stickers that can only be removed efficiently in industrial recycling facilities. The same goes for kraft paper bags that always have a aluminium or plastic inner lining. 

A local Coffee Refill Program like WB.coffee offers in Weesp (Amsterdam) region is the best and most sustainable way to keep your beans free from microplastics. Ask your local roaster for a refill program! 

We consider the risk of microplastic migration in coffee oils very small as our beans are not charcoaled by high temperature (flash) dark roasts. We never feel an oily surface inside our bean containes. 

We do have glass and SS (vacuum) containers available for storing coffee and for use with our Coffee Refill Program. So if you want to be on the safe side we have got you covered!

Do you have questions or see omissions in this list? Hit the chat button or contact us.

more tips from the CoffeeNose👃

Every barista will be familiar with oily hoppers. This is not only due to oily beans but also due to heat from the grinder below and the working environment. At home you will not like encounter this problem unless your grinder is integrated in the coffee machine or badly positioned. Anyway at home we do single dosing and do not keep full hoppers (in the sun), right! (if you are now getting a red face it might be time to join a workshop @ Amsterdam Coffee Lab and learn to avoind further rookie mistakes. 

From a no-plastic perespective a quality hand grinder seems the only option as we are not aware of any electric grinders that are completely plastic free (including hopper and chute).

Do you have questions or see omissions in this list? Hit the chat button or contact us.

more tips from the CoffeeNose👃

It's great that you're looking for plastic-free teabags! Many traditional teabags contain a small amount of plastic (usually polypropylene) to heat-seal them. This plastic doesn't break down and can release microplastics into your tea.

Luckily it is very easy to avoid teabags at all. With the right tools brewing loose tea is a breeze. It comes with some big bonusses as wel: loose tea tends to be higher grade quality tea and is cheaper per gram than bagged tea.

Here's how to identify teabags that do not contain plastic:

Look for these terms and materials:

• Compostable: This is a good indicator, as plastic is not compostable. Look for certifications like "OK Compost HOME" or "OK Compost INDUSTRIAL."
• Biodegradable: While better than traditional plastic, some "biodegradable" materials can still contain bioplastics like PLA (polylactic acid), which might only break down in industrial composting facilities. It's still preferable to traditional plastic.
• Made from natural fibers:
  • Paper: Unbleached paper tea bags that are folded or stitched are often plastic-free.
  • Cotton: Some brands use organic cotton for their tea bags.  
  • Abacá: A natural fiber derived from banana plants, often used in plastic-free tea bags.  
  • Wood pulp and hemp: Some brands use a blend of these natural, compostable fibers.  
• Stitched or tied tea bags: If the tea bag is held together with a cotton string and doesn't have a heat-sealed edge, it's likely plastic-free.

Brands that often offer plastic-free teabags (always double-check the specific product):

• Pukka Herbs: Their tea bags are made from abacá, wood pulp, and plant cellulose, stitched with organic cotton.  
• Clipper Tea Bags: They use a blend of abacá and biopolymer (PLA) for their tea bags.
• Higher Living: Their tea bags are made from unbleached paper with an organic cotton string.  
• Teapigs: Their tea temples (pyramid bags) are made from PLA, which is a plant-based bioplastic and is industrially compostable.
• Abel & Cole (UK): Offers plastic-free tea bags.  
• Weleda (UK): Offers organic, plastic-free tea bags.  
• Waitrose Duchy (UK): Offers Fair Trade and Organic tea bags made from cotton and paper.  
• Barry's Tea (Ireland): Their black tea range produced in Cork is now biodegradable, using a blend of PLA, abaca, and cellulose fibers. Their fruit, herbal, and green teas are also in biodegradable bags.
• Bromley Tea: Their tea bags do not contain any plastic and are fully compostable.  
• Bigelow Tea (most varieties): Their standard paper tea bags do not contain nano/micro plastics and use non-heat seal paper. However, their TeaWell and some other lines might use different materials, so it's worth checking.
• Republic of Tea: Many of their tea bags are made from unbleached paper.  
• Yogi Tea: Their tea bags are often made from paper and are compostable.  
• Traditional Medicinals: Their tea bags are typically made from unbleached, compostable paper.
• NEMI Teas (UK): Uses PLA mesh filters derived from sugarcane.
• Dilmah: Their tagless "pot bags" are made from biodegradable PLA. Their standard string and tag bags are mostly natural cellulose fibers without plastic coating.
• Twinings Tea Bags (some ranges): Some of their ranges use plant starch for their tea bags. Look for specific product information.
• Stash Tea: Many of their tea bags are made from paper.

How to be sure:

• Check the packaging: Look for clear statements like "100% plastic-free," "compostable," or details about the materials used.
• Contact the manufacturer: If you're unsure, you can always reach out to the tea company directly and ask about the materials used in their tea bags.

PLA (plant derived biopolymer)

By being mindful of the packaging and materials, you can easily find delicious and plastic-free tea options! 

As you can see teapigs is also in this list as they use PLA (plant derived biopolymer) for their teabags. Whenever available we offer their blends as loose tea as well.

Do you have questions or see omissions in this list? Hit the chat button or contact us.

more tips from the CoffeeNose👃

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a plant-derived biopolymer, which means it's a type of plastic made from renewable resources like:  

• Corn starch  
• Sugarcane  
• Cassava roots  
• Sugar beet pulp  
• Other plant-based feedstocks  

Here's a breakdown of its key characteristics:

• Renewable Source: Unlike traditional plastics derived from fossil fuels, PLA utilizes plant-based materials, making it a more sustainable option in terms of resource consumption.  
• Biodegradable and Compostable: Under the right conditions (specifically in industrial composting facilities with controlled temperature and humidity), PLA can break down into its natural components. It is certified industrially compostable according to standards like AS4736 and EN13432. However, it's generally not home compostable.  
• Versatile: PLA can be used to produce a wide range of products, including:
  • Packaging (food containers, films, bottles)  
  • Disposable cutlery and tableware  
  • Textiles and fibers  
  • 3D printing filaments  
  • Agricultural films  
  • Tea bags   
• Production Process: The production of PLA typically involves:
  1. Fermentation: Plant-based carbohydrates are fermented by microorganisms to produce lactic acid.  
  2. Polymerization: The lactic acid molecules are then linked together to form long chains of polylactic acid (PLA).

Advantages of PLA:

• Renewable feedstock: Reduces reliance on fossil fuels.  
• Lower greenhouse gas emissions during production compared to some traditional plastics.  
• Compostable in industrial facilities, offering a potential end-of-life solution for certain applications, especially where food contamination makes traditional recycling difficult.  

Disadvantages of PLA:

• Requires specific composting conditions: Doesn't readily break down in home compost or natural environments.
• Recycling infrastructure is still developing: While PLA can be recycled back into lactic acid, the infrastructure for this is not yet widespread.
• Can be more expensive than conventional plastics in some cases.  
• Not suitable for all applications: Can have limitations in terms of heat resistance and flexibility compared to some traditional plastics.  

In the context of teabags, PLA is often used to create the mesh-style pyramid bags as it can be heat-sealed and is marketed as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic teabags.

However, it's important to remember its industrial compostability requirement. 

The long term health impact is not yet clear.

​

Do you have questions or see omissions in this list? Hit the chat button or contact us.

more tips from the CoffeeNose👃

Plant cellulose is the main structural component of plant cell walls. It's a complex carbohydrate, or polysaccharide, made up of thousands of glucose molecules linked together in long chains.

Here's a breakdown of key aspects of plant cellulose:

Structure:

• Cellulose molecules are long, linear chains of glucose units.
• These chains are linked end-to-end by beta(1-4) glycosidic bonds.
• The arrangement of these bonds causes the cellulose molecules to form a flat, ribbon-like structure.
• Multiple cellulose chains then bundle together laterally, held by hydrogen bonds, forming strong microfibrils.
• These microfibrils are further organized into larger structures within the cell wall.

Key Characteristics:

• Abundant: Cellulose is the most abundant organic compound on Earth, making up about 33% of all plant matter (e.g., 90% of cotton and 50% of wood).
• Strong and Rigid: The highly ordered structure and hydrogen bonding between cellulose chains contribute to the strength and rigidity of plant cell walls, providing structural support to plants.
• Insoluble in Water: The strong intermolecular forces make cellulose insoluble in water and most common solvents.
• Nondigestible by Humans: Humans lack the necessary enzymes (cellulases) to break down the beta(1-4) glycosidic bonds in cellulose. Therefore, it passes through our digestive system largely unchanged and is a form of dietary fiber.
• Digestible by Some Organisms: Herbivorous animals (like cows and horses) have microorganisms in their digestive tracts that produce cellulase enzymes, allowing them to break down cellulose. Termites also have gut microbes that perform this function.

Functions in Plants:

• Structural Support: Provides the main structural framework for plant cells and the entire plant.
• Mechanical Protection: Protects the living cell from physical damage.
• Regulation of Transport: The cell wall, with its cellulose network, helps regulate the movement of water, nutrients, and other small molecules into and out of the cell.
• Cell Shape: Contributes to maintaining the shape of plant cells.

Uses of Cellulose:

Due to its abundance and unique properties, cellulose has numerous applications, including:

• Paper Production: The primary raw material for paper.
• Textiles: Used to make fibers like cotton, linen, and rayon.
• Cellulose Derivatives: Chemically modified cellulose is used to produce various substances found in:
  • Plastics (e.g., cellulose acetate)
  • Photographic films
  • Rayon and other synthetic fibers
  • Adhesives
  • Explosives (e.g., nitrocellulose)
  • Thickening agents in foods
  • Moisture-proof coatings
• Filtration: Used in filters to trap particles.
• Biofuel Production: Being explored as a source for cellulosic ethanol.

In the context of teabags and coffee filters, plant cellulose, often in the form of paper or other natural fibers, is used to create a biodegradable and compostable material for containing the tea leaves.

Plant cellulose seems safe as it passes through our digestive system largely unchanged and is a form of dietary fiber. The long term health impact is not yet clear.

Do you have questions or see omissions in this list? Hit the chat button or contact us.

more tips from the CoffeeNose👃