Hourglass Cold Brew System Uses Eastman Tritan Plastic

Cold brew enthusiasts often worry about bitter flavors, unwanted acids, and the chemical leaching that can come from low-quality brewing equipment. If you've ever tasted harsh or overly acidic cold coffee, the issue might not be the beans — it could be the material your brewer is made from.

The Hourglass Cold Brew Coffee system reduces coffee acidity by 69.9%, thanks to the use of Eastman Tritan copolyester, delivering smoother and healthier cold brew without compromising durability or clarity.

What Is the Hourglass Cold Brew System?

The Hourglass Cold Brew Coffee system is a two-part, non-electric cold brew maker shaped like an hourglass. It features a coffee extractor on top and a brewing chamber below, separated by a stainless steel filter. Made entirely from Eastman Tritan copolyester, the clear design allows you to watch the cold brew extraction process as it happens.

Why Tritan Plastic Was Chosen for This Brewer

Eastman Chemical Company announced that Hourglass Coffee, based in Portland, Oregon, selected Tritan as the material for this cold brew system. Tritan is a BPA-free copolyester engineered to offer a balance of properties essential for repeated food-contact use: it's tough yet flexible, resistant to heat and chemicals, and highly durable under repeated washing. Unlike standard plastics, Tritan does not degrade or leach harmful substances, even after dishwasher cycles or long-term exposure to liquids.

How the Cold Brew Process Works Without Heat

To make cold brew with the Hourglass system, users combine cold water with ground coffee in the upper chamber. The device extracts the coffee essence without heat — reducing extraction of bitter compounds, acids, and unhealthy oils. The resulting cold brew concentrate can then be diluted with hot or cold water, depending on taste preference.

Any leftover concentrate can be stored in the Hourglass BeanKanteen, also made from Tritan, and frozen without flavor loss. This extends the life of your brew and ensures freshness whenever you're ready to drink.

Health and Practical Benefits of Tritan in Coffee Equipment

According to Kim Kapp, Market Manager at Hourglass Coffee, “Our goal was to find a material that enhances user benefit. With Tritan, we achieved a 69.9% reduction in coffee bitterness and acidity, offering a much healthier option.” Tritan’s properties mean the brewer is also safe for dishwasher cleaning, highly portable, and resistant to breakage — all without compromising the sleek, glass-like appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Tritan different from regular plastic?

Tritan is a BPA-free copolyester that is tougher, more flexible, and more chemically resistant than standard plastics. It doesn't leach harmful substances, even when exposed to hot water, detergents, or used in the dishwasher regularly.

How much less acidic is cold brew from the Hourglass system?

The Hourglass Cold Brew system reduces acidity and bitterness by 69.9% compared to standard brewing methods, resulting in a smoother and healthier cup of cold coffee.

Can the Hourglass Brewer be used without electricity?

Yes, the Hourglass Cold Brew system is completely non-electric. It works by steeping coffee in cold water without any need for heat or power.

Is the BeanKanteen freezer-safe?

Yes, the Hourglass BeanKanteen, also made from Tritan, can be used to store leftover coffee concentrate in the freezer without affecting its flavor.

Is the Hourglass system dishwasher safe?

Yes, both the Hourglass Cold Brew system and the BeanKanteen are designed to be durable enough for regular dishwasher cleaning.

Best FrontStreet Coffee Beans for Cold Brew

For cold brewing, FrontStreet Coffee recommends its washed Yirgacheffe and natural Ethiopia Humbera beans — both known for smooth, sweet profiles that shine in cold water. The Yirgacheffe offers bright citrus and floral notes, while the Ethiopia Humbera brings juicy blueberry and gentle sweetness. Both develop complex, low-acid cups ideal for extended cold extractions. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.