Scientists say 11am is perfect time for coffee break

 

Scientists say 11am is perfect time for coffee break

If you are among those who desperately need a midmorning coffee break, then go for it at 11 a.m., as scientists claim a formula they have devised proves that 'elevenses' is the best time to drink your brew.

The Oxford University research also shows that a tasty Americano is not the only requirement -- lights, music, aroma and good company need to be added to the mix. The experts developed the formula (M = 0.5 x F + (0.5 x E + 0.3 x P + 0.15 x C + 0.05 x T) by combining various factors such as great flavour (F) with the perfect environment (E), the container it comes in (P), who you drink coffee with (C) and the time of day you enjoy your coffee break (T) to create the most enjoyable coffee moment (M).

After applying this formula, the scientists found 11 a.m. is the best time to have a coffee bream, in a well-lit room with friends and nice music in the background, the 'Daily Mail' reported.

Prof Charles Spence, from the Department of Experimental Psychology at Oxford University, who led the research, said: "The formula describes how to create the perfect coffee moment at home or at work. We have known for some time that our taste buds are a vital part of the taste experience.

"However, we can now pinpoint the exact sensory conditions required to enjoy coffee, or any other food and drink." According to the researchers, 11 a.m. is the best time to have a coffee break as this is the time when the average person's palate is at the height of its powers.

They also suggested for soothing background music at the venue which should be a well-lit room or outside in the sun. About the aroma, they said it should be strong as 80 per cent of the flavour of food or drink comes from the nose and not the tongue.

So far as the company is concerned, they reasoned that the anticipation of meeting up with friends increases your enjoyment and the sensation of a warm drink makes your brain see the people around you in a more favourable light.

Spence's formula, published in a report called 'Changing Tastes', highlighted how external, environmental influences also affect our brain's interpretation of taste and enjoyment of food and drink.

Kevin Gould, a British food futurologist said: "Prof Spence's research report proves the importance of all the senses in the enjoyment of food and drink."Aroma is a vital ingredient to make the most of your coffee break."

Source: Indian Express