Menu Close

How Cold Brew Coffee Changed the Coffee Market

fitness woman holds coffee scaled

Cold brew coffee vs. hot brew coffee 

There is a vast difference between cold brew coffee and traditional hot brew coffee, starting with the taste, acidity and bitterness. 

The first and foremost difference is the temperature used for brewing, which is only a maximum of 27 degrees for cold brew coffee, which is steeped for hours in water, and over 85 degrees in the case of rapidly brewed hot coffee. 

The temperature of brewing is not without importance, as heat influences the extraction of acidic compounds. Cold brew coffee has up to 60% less acidity and bitterness, which will be really noticeable when drinking. More acidic coffee can degrade quickly resulting in a stale taste, instead of the rich and smooth taste of cold brew coffee. 

The amount of caffeine is also completely different, with the advantage of cold brew coffee, having even 256 mg of the substance in 250 ml, when in the case of hot brew coffee it can only be up to 95 mg. 

hot coffee in cup surrounded by coffee beans

How has cold brew coffee changed the coffee market?

The extraordinary taste of cold brew coffee coming from renowned cold brew coffee wholesale suppliers, such as Finlays, has quickly increased the demand for this type of coffee.

Cold brew coffee is definitely more refreshing, without bitterness. Additionally, coffee drinkers get a decent amount of caffeine, energising their bodies. 

It’s much easier now to order cold brew coffee in coffee shops, cafes, and even groceries, as this is what people are looking for. The demand for cold brew coffee forced coffee chains and independent coffee shops to change the regular menu.

Coffee shops and retailers prepare larger batches of cold brew coffee in advance, reducing waste and enabling them to serve cold brew consistently throughout the day.

It’s possible due to the brewing process and concentrated nature the shelf life is increased, and it lets coffee stay fresh for a longer time compared to traditional hot brewed coffee.

The demand for cold brew coffee has generally increased the popularity of ready-to-drink (RTD) products. Finlays advertises its cold brew coffee as a perfect base for frozen desserts, bakery or functional beverages.

Bottled coffee is a great choice for on-the-go consumers, who want to take coffee with them when hiking or riding a bike. Most importantly, avoid pre-sweetened coffee, and look for naturally derived flavours instead.

How does cold brew coffee influence you 

Cold brew coffee has greatly influenced European markets, yet it has influenced your private life too. You are probably more aware of what positive impact coffee may have on your body, and how to brew it to get the best of it. Cold brew coffee is the best option for this purpose. 

Instead of taking a bottle of water when you go outside, you may take a bottle with your cold brew coffee, together with your favourite milk. 

Lots of coffee fans invested in special equipment, changing their kitchens into home breweries. There are some brave and ambitious people who started brewing their own cold brew coffee at home. Manufacturers have to meet the demand and offer brewing equipment for amatour use.