The beginning of the so-called Deutsches Reinheitsgebot dates back to 1516.
But there is always room for improvement, is there not? They want to get right to the point, and not beat around the bush.
You will also see bus stops indicate the minute the bus is expected to arrive at any given stop — I remember how hilarious found this concept when I mentioned it to them, but I think things like this are helpful and it's something I'll miss in other countries.
Germans are a nation of upright, hard-working people that earn nothing but our respect.