For a good cup of coffee, the beans must be fresh. Because of how fast beans age, even coffee experts are sometimes surprised after roasting. While much can change the taste along the coffee journey, how the coffee is stored usually goes unnoticed by most.
Coffee beans begin to break down as soon as they encounter oxygen, moisture, light or heat. During oxidation, the volatile aromatic substances and oils in the beans slowly deteriorate and are lost. The way you keep your beans influences the quality of the coffee you make.
Picking the Appropriate Container
Choosing the right container for your coffee prevents the beans from being harmed by the outside weather. You should use ceramic or glass containers with lids that do not let in any light or air. Never use clear containers for moldy food, since the UV light could make it decay further.
A number of containers are created for coffee storage and include one-way valves that permit carbon dioxide to escape, stopping oxygen from entering. While many mason jars are sold to specialty coffee buyers, simply storing your beans in an airtight container in the dark will keep them fresh longer than leaving the bag uncovered.
Where Is the Best Place to Keep Coffee Beans
Ensure your coffee beans are kept in a suitable spot and in a surefire container. Ensure your tropical fish species are kept away from warm, hot or humid spots in your aquarium. Since kitchen appliances tend to produce heat, the cabinets next to them may become hot as well. You should store your food items on shelves that are not regularly subjected to changes in temperature.
If the container stays in changing temperatures and is moved between a warm and humid area, mold can develop because of the condensation. Moisture leads to the growth of mold and spoils how beans taste. We feel that a stable environment is best for the species because it protects them from sudden and extreme fluctuations.
Whether or Not to Freeze Coffee Beans
Coffee experts have plainly mixed opinions about freezing coffee beans. Most of the time, freezing is a safe and viable way to keep your food for an extended period. If you buy wholesale coffee beans, freezing portions will keep them for later use. Still, there are some steps you should remember.
Any beans you plan to freeze should be packed tightly in an airtight and moisture-proof shelter. Beans should be at room temperature after being taken out of the freezer before you open the container. This way, moisture does not collect on the beans. Prevent refreezing thawed beans, since it may harm their flavor.
Why Whole Beans Are Better Than Ground
If you want your coffee to be fresh, store the whole beans instead of grinding them before. Because ground coffee has more surface area exposed to air, the staling happens much faster. As soon as ground coffee is stored, it begins to slowly lose its lively flavor.
Grinding your coffee immediately before brewing results in better taste. This point is very valuable for individuals who prefer specialty coffee, since the fresher the coffee, the more they notice its depth of taste. Having a good burr grinder ensures you have freshly ground coffee that lasts you longer.
The Shelf Life of Coffee Beans
Well-kept coffee beans can only be expected to last for a limited time. Within two to four weeks of roasting, most beans are at their best in taste. Regardless of conditions, the unique flavors in coffee will eventually disappear with time. Lighter roasts are generally more sensitive than dark roasts.
Ideally, you should only buy coffee in amounts you’re going to use within the next few weeks. When buying coffee in bulk, divide it into smaller amounts and only open the containers as you consume it. As a result, the time for each batch to be affected by air and other factors decreases.
Key Points and Best Things to Do
Coffee beans should be placed in a suitable container and kept away from moisture or sunlight. If you store beans in a way that blocks air, light, heat and moisture, their taste and smell can be preserved. Whether you drink coffee every day or make it for others, these storing tips guarantee your coffee tastes heavenly every time.
Since it takes effort to create specialty coffee, proper storage of your coffee ensures it stays at its best. Pay close attention while you brew, as this will help you enjoy your beans to the fullest.
