Maatcups

Maatcups are a family of standardized measuring cups designed to improve precision and consistency in cooking and beverage preparation. The term combines maat, a root meaning measure in several European languages, with cups, and the products are manufactured in both metric and imperial units. Sets typically cover a range of common increments, allowing recipes to be scaled accurately without arithmetic errors.

Design and materials: Maatcups are produced in stainless steel or BPA-free silicone. They are designed to nest or stack for compact storage, and many feature etched or molded graduations in both milliliters (or liters) and fluid ounces. A subset includes color coding or magnetic connectors to keep sets organized. Some versions include pour spouts or lids to minimize spills and preserve freshness.

History and use: The concept originated in the Netherlands during the 2010s, developed by a collaboration between a chef and an engineer to standardize measurements across kitchens. The product line gained visibility through culinary schools and professional kitchens, later expanding to home cooks. Advocates emphasize faster recipe scaling and reduced measurement error; critics note higher price points relative to traditional plastic cups and occasional durability concerns for heavily used silicone variants.

Variants: Maatcups are sold as multi-piece sets, typically ranging from four to twelve cups. Common sizes span from around 5 milliliters up to 250 milliliters, with corresponding imperial equivalents such as 1/4, 1/2, and 1 cup. Some lines include digital or smart features, such as integrated scales or compatibility with recipe apps.

See also: Measuring cup; Kitchen measurement; Portion control.