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How To Store Coffee Beans?

I love to brew good coffee outside and also in my home. Also I love brewing a fresh, hot cup of coffee.

Because I use several ways to keep my coffee hot.


There is no better way to start the morning than a good cup of coffee in my favorite mug.


In fact, every weekend, my husband Jack and I love to sit down at the kitchen table and chat over a mug of coffee.


Sometimes I make different types of cold brew & Jack would loved very much.

Specially when I make cold brew in French Press. 


One morning, I noticed my coffee did not taste the same.

I asked my husband if he brewed it differently but he did not.


Then, I realized the coffee beans were not sealed tightly!

This was why the coffee did not taste fresh.


image credit: Espressomelbourne.com

Preserving The Beans

The way you store coffee beans is important because if you do not do it properly, you could be brewing a bland cup of coffee like Jack and I did that weekend.

There are four things you want to avoid when storing coffee beans: air, moisture, heat, and light. If you love to brew in French Press then it also have some mistakes try to avoid them.


These four things can be detrimental to your coffee beans.

If coffee beans are not stored properly, the taste of the next cup of java can be compromised.

Coffee connoisseurs typically store their coffee in a cool, dark place.


Avoid putting your coffee in a clear container as the coffee can absorb the light that shines through.

A big mistake some people make is putting their coffee tin above the stove or near another heat source – this is not good for it!


Whole Coffee Beans

So, how to store whole bean coffee?

Keep your beans stored in an airtight container!

If you are like me and spend a lot of money on coffee beans, the last thing you want to do is wake up to rotten or bland beans.

People usually invest on different types of coffee bean grinders, or some best coffee makers for home use.


Moreover, I always suggest to invest in a good quality, dark container or even try freezing your beans. If you decide to freeze them, then ensure you use a vacuum sealed bag. 

Did you know that you can store whole coffee beans for up to 9 months past their expiry date?

Ground Beans

You can store ground coffee beans similar to whole beans, but I do not suggest freezing them.

A good quality canister that is kept in a dark space is the best way to keep your ground coffee fresh.


There is nothing better than opening the lid and breathing in that awakening smell!

Jack and I always try and beat each other to opening the lid first, when we buy ground beans!


image credit: Sonofresco.com

How To Tell If Your Coffee Beans Are Freshly-Roasted?

The challenge of how to keep my coffee beans fresh becomes easier when I have nothing but only freshly roasted coffee.

There are many things to look for when determining whether the beans are freshly-roasted.

In fact, after years of drinking coffee, I have finally found the main signs to look for.

These signs are not tricky, so keep them in mind the next time you are looking for fresh beans. 

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Glossy Appearance

The coffee beans should have a glossy appearance when you first glance at them.

The darker the beans are the glossier they will be, but also remember that light-roasted beans will have a dull glossiness look to them.


Decaffeinated beans may also have a less glossy appearance also due to the process they travel through.



Oily Residue Should Be Left

Coffee beans should leave an oily residue to the touch.

If you purchase coffee beans in a bag, the inside of the bag should be left with oily residue. 


If you do not notice any oily residue left on your hands on in the bag, then this probably means the coffee beans are not fresh. 


image credit: vikingmasek.com

Check For A Valve In A Sealed Bag

If you buy coffee beans from a pre-sealed bag then always make sure there is a built-in valve. 

The purpose of a valve is to release the CO2 that your fresh coffee beans are releasing.


The valve is an important part of the sealed bag and if it is not there then do not buy that certain bag.

One time, Jack brought home a bag without a valve and the beans did not taste right!


Is There Any Other Way I Can Try For Freshness?

Yes! I love using the Ziploc bag test!

All you do is take a handful of whole coffee beans and place them in a Ziploc bag overnight.


All the air should be pressed out before sealing, and in the morning if the bag is inflated you know there is CO2 which means freshness!

This is a great way to test beans that you are unsure of how old they are. If the bag is flat in the morning, then the beans are past their expiry date.


What Is The Best Way To Store Green Coffee Beans?

Green coffee beans are seeds of Coffea fruits that have yet to be roasted.

Did you know that green coffee is related to lowering blood pressure and helping with metabolism boosting? 

If you have ever wondered how to properly store coffee beans then I have some helpful advice for you.


The best thing you can do is to only purchase as much as you will use within 3-4 weeks, as this will minimize potential for spoiling. 

A great way to store green coffee is by placing it in a tightly sealed container and placing it in the fridge or a cooler.


Green Coffee And Atmospheric Stability

Atmospheric stability is a big word that is very important with green coffee bean storage.

If you live in a region that is extremely humid or less humid, then you will have to ensure you are careful when storing your coffee.


If you live in a very dry climate, then make sure you are keeping the coffee’s moisture levels from falling too low.

A way to help with this is placing the green coffee in the fridge or a cooler to make sure the moisture is maintained.

 

I recommend not exposing your green coffee beans to air because this could cause spoilage over time.


Longevity Of Green Coffee Beans

Green un-roasted coffee beans can last up to years in proper storage!

Always make sure your beans are stored away from any strong aromas because green coffee beans are very porous and can absorb any scent!


How To Properly Store Coffee For Freshness?

After being a long-time coffee drinker, I have found some helpful tips that I want to share with you when it comes to storing coffee!

I do not want you to waste your expensive coffee like I have done many times because of improper storage!


Store Whole Beans Instead Of Ground

Whole coffee beans are easier to store instead of ground coffee because the ground coffee’s oils begin to evaporate.

Over time, ground coffee can lose its flavor due to being exposed.


Therefore, I recommend storing whole beans and grinding them up just before you make coffee; your coffee will taste so rich and fresh!


Use Coffee Beans Sooner Than Later

It is recommended to use coffee beans within two weeks for ultimate freshness.

Don’t wait too long to use your coffee beans because the longer you store them the less fresh they will taste when you go to drink them.


Grind Just Before Brewing

Again, avoid grinding too many coffee beans that will go unused, as this can cause the coffee to taste less fresh.

 

Grinding coffee beans just before you brew is the best way to do it, and you’ll thank yourself as you sip your hot cup of coffee.


Only Buy What You Will Use

Over buying coffee is a big waste of money!

Trust me, I have spent countless dollars on coffee that I end up tossing because I can’t use it in time.


Only buy what you will use within the two-week frame and no more than that.

If you are planning on going on vacation during that time then you may want to purchase less.


Store Coffee In An Airtight Container

It is imperative to brewing fresh coffee to store your grounds or beans in an air tight container.


The sealed container will prevent any air or moisture from getting in and oxidizing the beans or cause them to become less fresh over time.

Airtight containers can be bought inexpensively at any grocery store.


Use A Dark Container

Never store coffee in a clear or light-colored container because light can damage the freshness of coffee.


Moreover, if your coffee beans are exposed to light for a long period of time it could damage the taste and strength of the coffee once brewed.


Avoid Moisture

Storing your coffee in a dry or low temperature place is important in keeping it fresh.

If your coffee beans or grounds become exposed to moisture through the form of heat or light, this can be damaging to it.


Be careful to not leave your coffee opened in an unsealed container as moisture can build up this way too.


Avoid Heat Until After Brewing

You should always make sure that your coffee grounds or beans are not exposed to heat until after the brewing process.


Any exposure to heat before brewing can potentially damage the taste and aroma of the coffee.


Best Places To Store Coffee

The best place to store your coffee is in a low temperature, dry, and dark place. Some people like to store their coffee in a cooler or their fridge.

You should avoid direct sunlight or heat, and always place your coffee in a dark, cool space.

 

I never place my coffee near my stove as I am always turning it on and the heat it releases is not good for my coffee!

I like to put my coffee in my fridge sometimes when I don’t have many pungent foods in their like onions or garlic.


Be Consistent With Containers

Try to keep your coffee in the same container or packaging, as this prevents important gases that are released after roasting to escape.

 

These gases are important to keep in the container or package for optimum freshness!


Coffee Container Types

The Bag

The bag your coffee is stored in should have a valve to allow for proper CO2 movement, and also to prevent the bag from exploding! 

You should never purchase coffee and then transfer it into any old bag because this will not maintain the coffee’s freshness.

Always use a bag with a valve!


Mason Jars

Using a mason jar for coffee storage is convenient and aesthetically cute.

If you decide to use a mason jar, be sure it is never placed in direct sunlight or exposed to heat.

Mason jars are a great way to organize your coffee.


Vacuum Sealed

Vacuum-sealed is not the best way to store your coffee compared to valve-sealed storage bags.

If you decide to use a vacuum-sealed bag then be sure that the CO2 is released before sealing.


I would recommend vacuum-sealing mainly for pre-ground coffee, which I don’t recommend over ground, fresh coffee!☺


Canister Coffee

Putting your coffee in a sealed canister is another great way to store your coffee.

Try to select a dark colored canister that does not permit a lot of light to enter.

Canisters look great in a kitchen as well, so your coffee can look cute while being stored properly.


What To Avoid When Making Fresh Coffee?

The enemies of your coffee are heat, light, and moisture. If you avoid these three things then you will surely be able to brew a fresh cup of coffee.

Strong, odorous food are enemies as well, if you place your coffee in the fridge.


Do Ziplock Coffee Pouches Do the Trick?

Zip-Lock pouches are great for storing coffee beans!

In fact, I like to use coffee pouch bags that can hold between 16 ounces to 2 pounds.


Zip-Lock coffee pouches come in a variety of solid colors. Find a dark pouch.


Most of these pouches have a place to install a valve to make it a coffee bag.


What Other Kinds Of Pouches Or Bags Are Available?

There are so many other kinds of pouches or bags out there to pick from, such as a flat pouch coffee bag, block bottom coffee bag, and a paper coffee bag.


Take a look online to see which one you like best!

I like the flat pouch coffee bag for travel as it holds small quantities of coffee.


What Do The Experts Say About Freezing Coffee Beans?

There is a lot to be said about freezing coffee beans, and it really does come down to personal preference.


Most coffee experts will say not to freeze coffee beans because of the freezer’s job of removing heat from the food and evaporating moisture.


Coffee beans moisture level is very finicky and if it is removed too much then this could be a big problem.

A lot of coffee drinkers have reported their coffee not tasting as fresh or drinkable after freezing their beans.


When Can You Freeze Coffee Beans?

If you would like to freeze coffee beans, then make sure you are freezing them for a lengthy period of time.

You want to avoid taking beans in and out of the freezer, and always keeping them sealed in an airtight container.


The reason why you want to keep them in the freezer and not always take them out is to prevent any condensation from happening during un-thawing.


What Is the Best Way To Freeze Coffee Beans?

Purchase a good quality, airtight container that you can keep your beans in.

You can also freeze coffee beans in a vacuum sealed bag or Zip-lock bag.


When Should I Refrigerate Coffee?

If you wish to refrigerate your coffee grounds, then you should make sure you pat dry the wet grounds and place them in a covered bowl in the fridge.


Again, you want to avoid placing them near any odorous foods like onions, garlic, or oranges.

You can store coffee beans in the fridge as long as they are in a sealed container and are not exposed to air.

How Long Can Coffee Stay Stored?

Depending on what type of coffee you have, such as beans or grounds, there is a different shelf life for both.

How Long Does Ground Coffee Last?

Ground coffee can be stored anywhere from 3 months to 5 months.

The freezer can store your ground coffee for up to five months, whereas the pantry or other dark space can store your grounds fresh up to three months.


How Long Does Coffee Bean Last?

Coffee beans last a long time in storage, if stored properly.

Coffee beans are able to stay in storage anywhere from 5 months to 1 year, if not more!

If you take time to securely store your coffee beans then they should last you a long time.


Which is Better: Roasting Or Grinding Your Own Green Coffee Beans?

If you don’t already know, I will tell you: green coffee beans are extremely hard beans.

In fact, you need an industrial strength machine to safely grind green coffee beans.

You may want to think of them as tiny rocks!

You better avoid to grind those with your best manual coffee grinder


If you do attempt to grind your own green coffee beans, then you will want to put your grinder on a coarse setting.

I recommend roasting your green coffee beans because this will allow them to become easier to brew.


Can You Over Roast Green Coffee Beans?

Absolutely, you can. Like any other coffee bean, over-roasting can be a problem.

Because green coffee beans are tough, you have to keep checking them frequently during the roasting process.


Try roasting a smaller amount for around 20 minutes and then add more beans once you get comfortable with it.


Should I Buy Grocery Store Coffee?

You can find many great coffee brands, both in ground and bean form, in the aisles of the grocery store.

You should look for storing whole bean coffee, if you have a grinder at home, as this will yield the freshest coffee.


Avoid buying instant coffee because due to its convenience, it does not taste fresh or creamy.

If you like to support local businesses, then try purchasing locally roasted beans! 


How Can I Keep My Coffee From Not Going Bad?

As long as you keep your coffee stored securely then it should keep for a long time.

Again, buy good quality air tight containers and avoid leaving your coffee in the sun or exposed to heat.


You can tell if your coffee has gone bad by using your nose!

One quick sniff of your coffee should tell you if it is fresh or has gone bad.

What Are Some Signs of Spoiled Coffee?

Keep your eyes (and nose) out for coffee that does not have a strong “coffee” smell, mold growing, and if the beans are mildewy and smell off.

Always use your judgement, and when in doubt throw it out!

Conclusion

Now you should feel confident in your ability to store coffee.

After reading these helpful tips I hope you will now be able to avoid wasting coffee and be able to prepare a delicious cup of java every morning!

Coffee is a drink that is widely enjoyed around the world, and knowing how to store your coffee beans or grounds is an important first step to enjoying a fresh cup!


Sarah Price
 

Creator & editor here at House Of Arabica. I'm a proud mother of one baby girl. Passionate about coffees and their variations. Love to review coffee accessories! Please feel free to put your comment below.

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