Abstract: The present invention relates to a filter element for the extraction or brewing of beverages. In particular, the filter element facilitates brewing through increased permeability of fluid from a brewed beverage from brewable particles, such fluid including liquid and gas, and the easing of gas build up in a brewing device herein by the removal of gases emitted from a beverage medium housed within a beverage cartridge during brewing. The filter element may be used within a rigid, semi-rigid or soft pod that is insertable within a beverage brewer. The invention particularly concerns the brewing of coffee and coffee products in a coffee brewing machine configured to receive pods holding coffee particles that are injected with water and caused to brew coffee therefrom.