If you enjoy a good cup of coffee, you probably spend time looking for a quality product. However, as with all foods, coffee beans can lose their flavor and intensity over time. Luckily, you can maintain their quality and impact with proper storage. Follow this guide to keep your supply tasting excellent for as long as possible.

How Long Do Coffee Beans Last?

Various factors can affect bean freshness. For instance, lined bags that allow gas out but not inside the container can prevent staleness. Additionally, roasters that cook coffee in small batches provide access to fresher grounds that haven't been sitting on a shelf for extended periods.

The style of coffee determines its longevity. For example, whole beans don't age as quickly. Typically, they remain good in a sealed bag for up to nine months after roasting or six months after being opened. If you put them in the freezer, they're good for two to three years.

The grinding process increases the surface area, resulting in more oil loss and air exposure. As a result, ground coffee only has a shelf life of around three to five months, whether opened or not. However, the first two weeks after opening the bag offer the best flavor. Leaving it unopened in the freezer can extend the timeframe for up to two years in the right container.

How Do You Keep Coffee Fresh for Longer?

Use an Air-Tight Container

Many roasters seal bags to lock out air to limit exposure, maintaining the flavor profile for longer while they're not in use. You can also practice this by moving the beans into an air-tight container after opening. Additionally, if the original bags aren't vacuum-sealed, transfer the items into a receptacle as soon as you bring the purchase home.

However, keep the products out of direct and indirect sunlight by placing them in a cabinet or pantry. This prevents ultraviolet (UV) rays from heating the beans, causing oils to evaporate and the taste to diminish. 

Maintain Temperature

Fluctuations in temperature can cause condensation within the container. Such excess moisture pulls out flavor-producing oils within the beans, leaving them bland and unsatisfying. For that reason, don't freeze the bag you're using for daily batches. You should only do it for excess bags or beans from bulk purchases. 

A good brew starts with fresh coffee beans, so fill your cup up with quality products from Maui Coffee Roasters. Based in Kahului, HI, they have been serving coffee lovers throughout Maui, Hawaii, and the mainland since 1982. This local cafe sources the finest beans from across the islands and even some international growers. Browse their unique selection online, and reach out to a knowledgeable staff member at (808) 877-2877.