Though whole coffee beans can last a relatively long-time on the shelf, the quality of the beans starts to deteriorate right after you’ve opened its sealed bag. It is safe to say that the quality of your coffee is only as good as the beans you use, and stale coffee is poor coffee. In this post, we’ll share some tips on how to keep your coffee beans fresh (and tasty) for longer so you can wake up to the finest cup possible.
Storing your Coffee Beans
When it comes to coffee storage, the usual guideline is to keep it away from light, heat, moisture, and air. Most opaque, airtight containers should do, and if the coffee your purchased came in a bag that has an airtight close, like a zip-top seal, you may use that instead. Remember to Remove any excess air from the bag before sealing the seal. Coffee bags should be kept in a cold, dark, and dry place, such as a kitchen cupboard. Keep coffee away from hot surfaces like your oven or stove.
When it comes to opaque, airtight containers, you should pick the right material. Metal and ceramic containers are non-absorbent and won’t capture the flavor and aroma of your coffee. The next best alternative is glass containers. Plastic containers aren’t ideal for long-term storage, but they’ll be enough if the coffee is consumed within two weeks.
As mentioned above, airtight containers are better than nothing. However, Airscape containers are superior, and vacuum-sealed canisters are the best pick. Both actively drain the container of surplus air. The Airscape does this by a plunging lid, whereas vacuum-sealed canisters usually do it by using a built-in piston that manually drives air out, generating a vacuum effect.
Freezing Coffee
Coffee should not be kept in the freezer. It’s a moist and smelly environment. Coffee will absorb all of the moisture and odor. Furthermore, while it has not been proven to lengthen the life of coffee.
Takeaways
- Buy the best quality and freshest beans possible, preferably in a zip-top seal bag. It will be good enough for most coffee lovers.
- In case your bag doesn’t have an airtight close, Store the coffee beans in an airtight container made of metal or ceramic.
- Place at room temperature, away from sunlight and heat. No need to freeze.
- Drink as much as you can as quickly as you can.
The Barista Tip
You can easily use stale beans for a cold brew instead of throwing them to waste.