In 1784, John Richardson's writings popularized the saccharometer, a specialized hydrometer designed to measure sugar content in wort, which is crucial for brewing beer. This innovation allowed brewers to quantify the strength, efficiency, and consistency of their products, leading to improvements in brewing practices. The saccharometer became an essential tool in the brewing industry, influencing the quality and variety of beers produced.

John Richardson's popularization of the saccharometer for brewing in 1784 marked a significant moment in the Enlightenment's measurement culture. This scientific advancement influenced the didactic poetry of the eighteenth century, which often celebrated classification, experimentation, and the pursuit of knowledge.