Close-up of coffee pouring from an espresso maker into a small cup, San Ramon, California, December 17, 2019. In December of 2019, an industry report from the International Coffee Organization (ICO) indicated the possibility of a coffee shortage in 2020. (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images)
Food - Drink
The Specialty Coffee Maker Obama Introduced To The White House
By JOE DILLARD
There is a rich history of coffee appreciation in the White House, with former presidents enjoying a cup of joe in their unique way for centuries. The coffee kept flowing when President Barack Obama took office, and he had a preference for a specific type of coffee maker.
Invented in 1941 by Dr. Peter Schlumbohm, the Chemex coffee maker uses the pour-over method to transform coffee grounds into a ray of sunshine in a cup. Despite being a tea drinker, President Obama introduced it in 2016 to the White House, having 150 Chemex coffee makers adorned with the iconic presidential seal.
While unsure what drew President Obama to the company, Chemex touts values that could make its products more attractive to an American president. Chemex is an American company that strives to incorporate American business in its manufacturing process and is also committed to sustainability, as its filters are biodegradable and compostable.