The term “Waves of Coffee” refers to many epochs that represent the growth of coffee consumption. There are a total of 5 waves that may be characterized, each with unique characteristic features. We will go into greater detail about the variations and significant advancements that occurred during the first wave of coffee in this post.
First wave of coffee – Drinking coffee out of habit / to refuel
The twentieth century saw the introduction of coffee. During this time, coffee evolved into a beverage that was enjoyed in every home and eventually became a staple. Coffee underwent a transformation that made it appropriate for mass consumption as a commodity.
However, coffee preparation at the time was not as meticulous as it is now. Instant coffee was frequently used and was typically made in large quantities. Despite the large number, the quality was poor.
Coffee was a useful beverage that would keep you warm and awake. The initial wave of coffee did not place much emphasis on the pure flavors that can be extracted from coffee.
One of the reasons for the low quality of coffee in the first wave was the lack of good coffee roasters. Most people relied on pre-ground coffee or canned coffee that had been roasted months or even years before. The freshness and aroma of the coffee beans were lost during the long storage and transportation.
Some people tried to roast their own coffee at home, using household coffee roasters such as popcorn poppers, skillets, or ovens. However, these methods were not very efficient or consistent, and often resulted in uneven or burnt roasts.
It was not until the late 1900s that home coffee roasting became more popular and accessible, thanks to the invention of electric coffee roasters. These machines allowed people to roast small batches of green coffee beans in a controlled and convenient way. They also enabled people to experiment with different coffee roaster types, such as drum roasters, fluid bed roasters, or hybrid roasters, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Home coffee roasting also opened up the possibility of exploring different coffee origins, varieties, and processing methods, as well as different roasting profiles and levels. People could customize their coffee to suit their personal preferences and tastes.
Today, home coffee roasting is a hobby and a passion for many coffee enthusiasts, who seek to achieve the best quality and flavor from their coffee beans. They also enjoy sharing their roasts with their friends and family, or even selling them online or at local markets.
With the help of the internet, home coffee roasters can easily find and order green coffee beans from various sources, such as online coffee roasters, specialty coffee shops, or direct trade farmers. They can also learn from other roasters, exchange tips and feedback, and join online communities and forums.
Home coffee roasting is also a way to support the coffee industry and the environment, as it reduces waste, carbon footprint, and packaging. It also promotes fair trade and ethical practices, as it allows people to know where their coffee comes from and how it is produced.
Home coffee roasting is one of the aspects that distinguishes the first wave of coffee from the subsequent waves, which focused more on quality, specialty, and sustainability. It is also a testament to the evolution and diversity of coffee culture and consumption.
