How to Store Coffee Beans for Maximum Freshness.

If you're serious about making great coffee at home, you've probably figured out that using high quality coffee beans is important. But even high quality coffee beans can rapidly lose flavor if they are not stored properly. In this article, we will provide some easy, basic, and important steps to ensure your beans stay fresh and full of delicious coffee flavor, as you would expect on roasting day.

Why Coffee Bean Freshness Matters

Freshness is not just limited to flavor but also aroma, texture and the full-bodied experience that define the best coffee. After coffee beans are roasted, they start to release carbon dioxide and begin to slowly oxidize. Oxygen, light, heat and moisture can accelerate this process and will kill the flavors ultimately decreasing your overall coffee experience.

So how do you store your coffee beans to maintain that top rated flavor profile?

1. Select Whole Beans Over Ground Coffee

Compared to entire coffee beans, ground coffee had a shorter period of storage. Compared to entire coffee beans, ground coffee had a shorter period of storage. Break your coffee beans prior to steaming for the greatest taste. This reduces the quantity of moisture the coffee beans' coating is getting while maintaining the oils and smells.

2. Use an Airtight, Opaque Container.

Light and air are the two biggest enemies of fresh coffee beans. Store them in an opaque, airtight container — preferably one with a one-way valve to allow carbon dioxide to escape without letting air in.

Avoid:

• Clear jars.
• Unsealed bags.
• Bottles that are exposed to sunlight.

The best option is to opt for stainless steel or ceramic containers intended for storing coffee.

3. Store the coffee beans possibly in a cool and dark area

Although it may seem convenient to keep your top rated beans on the counter for quick access, placing them next to an oven or window in the kitchen can expose them to excessive heat and light. A pantry or cupboard is a better option.

Steer clear of the freezer and fridge.

Though often recommended, freezing your coffee beans can introduce moisture and damage flavor. Only consider freezing if you have a large supply you won’t use for weeks — and even then, be sure to seal it tightly and thaw it completely before opening to avoid condensation.

4. Buy in Smaller Batches.

Purchasing coffee beans in modest amounts that you will use within two to three weeks is one of the greatest ways to guarantee freshness. Do not store up coffee unless it is absolutely necessary because the best coffee is always freshly roasted.

TIP: To help you enjoy beans at their best, a lot of top rated coffee roasters provide smaller bags or subscription programs.

5. Label and Rotate Your Beans.

You must mark the roast date on your coffee beans and utilize the oldest first if you have more than one variety on hand. Even the well preserved coffee beans can become bad if they left out for a long period.

Conclusions.

If you adhere to a handful of simple rules, you can protect delicate flavor while still enjoying premium coffee daily. 

Whether you have smooth pour-over coffee, or a lively espresso, if you learn how best to store your beans, your coffee will be just as good as much of what you find at any top-rated coffee shop.