What is TDS in Coffee? Why is Monitoring this Metric Crucial? Part 1

Date posted: Mon, 23 Th12 2024

Did you know?
Vietnam is not only a leading rice exporter in the world, but also the world's 2nd largest coffee exporter ☕, second only to Brazil. With annual export revenue reaching around 5,5 billion USD—higher than rice (~4,8 billion USD) and 3 times that of crude oil (~1,9 billion USD)—coffee has become a strategic commodity, sharing Vietnamese flavors worldwide.

However, to maintain this position, Vietnamese coffee quality must consistently meet high standards – and one of the decisive factors is TDS.

So what is TDS in coffee? Why is controlling this parameter important?
Let's explore together!

Part 1: What is TDS in coffee? The secret to understanding your cup of coffee's quality!
Have you ever wondered why the same coffee beans yield different flavors when brewed differently? The answer lies in the TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) value – the factor determining the strength, balance, and sweetness of a cup of coffee.

What is TDS?
TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) measures the total amount of dissolved solids in brewed coffee, typically expressed in ppm (parts per million) or percentage (%). This key parameter helps evaluate:
✔️ Flavor: High or low TDS can affect the sweetness, bitterness, and balance of coffee.
✔️ Strength: TDS reflects the extraction yield from coffee grounds, determining mouthfeel.

What does TDS mean for coffee?
TDS is not just a number; it is a "language" for communicating with your cup of coffee:

Espresso: TDS from 8-12% provides a concentrated, bold, and intense flavor.
Pour Over (Filter Coffee): TDS from 1,15-1,35% gives a lighter and more delicate feel.
Lungo coffee: TDS from 2-8% produces a smooth, refreshing, and easy-drinking cup.

Controlling TDS is the key to fine-tuning your brewing process and delivering an exceptional experience in every cup of coffee.

Stay tuned for Part 2: The secrets to measuring and controlling TDS to brew world-class coffee!