Coffee Bean Size: Understanding Its Importance in Coffee Quality and Flavor

Coffee lovers and industry professionals alike often debate how to choose the best coffee beans. While origin, roast level, and processing method are critical, one overlooked factor is coffee bean size. This characteristic significantly impacts coffee quality, flavor, and even its price. In this article, we’ll explore how coffee bean size is measured, its role in the coffee industry, and why it matters to coffee enthusiasts, home brewers, and professionals.

What Is Coffee Bean Size, and Why Does It Matter?

Coffee bean size refers to the physical dimensions of a coffee bean, usually measured in millimeters or inches. It is a key grading criterion, influencing the consistency of roasting, flavor extraction, and even market price. Larger beans are often associated with higher quality, though this isn’t always the case. Understanding bean size helps in selecting the right coffee for your brewing method and flavor preferences.

Coffee Grades: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Coffee Quality

How Is Coffee Bean Size Measured?

Screen Size Method-How Coffee Is Sorted By Size?

The most common method for grading coffee bean size is the screen size technique. This involves sifting beans through a series of mesh screens with different hole sizes. The screen size number corresponds to the diameter of the holes in 64ths of an inch. For instance:

• Size 18: Beans are 18/64 of an inch.
• Size 16: Beans are 16/64 of an inch.

Because coffee is categorized by size in its home country, the size is typically represented using local terminology. We occasionally receive coffees identified as "screen 17/18," but we also get coffees classed using a country's conventional nomenclature. Unfortunately, this results in a lack of standardization in terminology, even though beans are sorted by size using the same processes all over the world. Here's a chart that compares screen sizes with different terminology used around the world:

Elephant beans, as they are known in Africa and India, are larger than 20/64 inch. Although these beans are huge, they are sometimes entwined with the cherry and delicate. If they don't break up during processing, they will when roasted. As a result, they are an exception to the rule that larger beans are generally superior.

Finally, classification phrases from Asia (except India) are conspicuously absent from this chart. Although portions of Asia are well-known for coffee production, the sector is not as developed as in South and Central America, or even Africa. As a result, Asian coffee-producing countries utilize fewer common terminology.

International Standards

Different countries use varying grading systems. For example:

• Colombia categorizes beans as Supremo (larger) and Excelso (smaller).
• Brazil uses terms like "Screen 17/18" for larger beans.
• Ethiopia focuses more on origin than size but still uses grading for export quality.

Modern Measuring Technologies

Advances in technology, such as laser measurement and optical sorting, are now helping producers and exporters assess bean size with greater precision.

Size differences in coffee bean varieties

There are two types of coffee beans: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica beans are the most popular worldwide, accounting for around 60% of total coffee production. They are oval-shaped and slightly larger, typically ranging between 9 and 11 millimeters. The remaining 40% of coffee production is made from Robusta beans, which are rounder and smaller, typically measuring between 6.5 and 8.5 millimeters.

• Arabica beans are approximately 9 to 11 millimeters long.
• Robusta beans range in size from 6.5 to 8.5 millimeters.
• Arabica beans are oval shaped, whilst Robusta beans are rounder.

How Does Coffee Bean Size Impact Quality?

Flavor Profiles and Consistency

While larger beans are often prized for their perceived quality, size doesn’t always equate to flavor superiority. Smaller beans, like peaberries, can have unique and concentrated flavor profiles.

Roasting Consistency

Uniform bean size ensures even roasting. Larger beans may require more time to roast evenly, while smaller beans roast faster. When beans of varying sizes are roasted together, the result can be inconsistent, leading to uneven flavor extraction during brewing.

Market Value

Larger beans typically fetch higher prices due to their association with premium coffee grades. For example, beans graded as "Supremo" or "AA" are more expensive than smaller, mixed grades.

Benefits of Selecting the Right Coffee Bean Size

For Home Brewers

Matching bean size to your brewing method enhances the coffee-making process. For instance, larger beans may work better for slow extraction methods like pour-over, while smaller beans may suit espresso for quick, intense brewing.

For Professionals

Baristas and café owners benefit from selecting consistent-sized beans to ensure a uniform roast profile and optimal customer experience.

For Coffee Industry Experts

Exporters and roasters use bean size to target specific markets, often tailoring their offerings to consumer preferences and quality standards.

Practical Tips for Choosing Coffee Bean Size

1. Inspect the Packaging: Many specialty coffee brands list bean size or grade. Look for terms like "Screen 17/18" or "Supremo."
2. Check for Consistency: Beans of uniform size improve roasting and brewing results.
3. Test Different Sizes: Experiment with various sizes to discover which best suits your brewing method and taste preferences.

Conclusion

Coffee bean size is more than just a physical characteristic—it’s a key factor influencing flavor, roasting consistency, and market value. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, home brewer, or industry professional, understanding bean size helps you make informed decisions about your coffee selection. By appreciating the nuances of coffee bean size, you’ll enjoy a richer and more satisfying coffee experience.

Start exploring different coffee bean sizes today to discover your perfect cup!