Possible Clues:

• Traditional work pause for cup that cheers
• Rest period when stirrers may be active
• When to have a drink and perhaps eat?
• Short rest during work
• Leaves opportunity for rest of the workers, briefly
• Time for elevenses?
• Time for a cuppa?
• Baker ate crackers in refreshment period
• Short rest for refreshment
• The rest of the brewers might take this in 16 down, for instance, for refreshment