Knowledge

Strength is not extraction yield

A stronger drink and a more extracted coffee are different ideas.

Understand the choice

TDS describes the concentration of dissolved material in the beverage. Extraction yield estimates dissolved coffee mass relative to the dry coffee dose. With a suitable refractometer, an approximate yield is beverage mass multiplied by TDS percent, divided by dose.

Put it into practice

The calculation assumes a representative, correctly prepared sample and excludes misleading solids or crema readings. Espresso and filter protocols differ; the number should support tasting rather than replace it.

Keep the conversation useful

Share your actual recipe or experience, identify the coffee or equipment and explain what changed. A clear question with measurements makes the discussion easier for others to answer.

Sources & further reading

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