People that drink coffee at home infrequently or buy large quantities of coffee want to store coffee for a long time. And it ends up in the refrigerator! For vegetables and other food, cold temperatures stem growth and keeps things fresher for longer. In essence, their shelf life is extended.
Storing coffee in the refrigerator isn't recommended. Coffee beans, including ground coffee, are actually seeds, not the plant or leaves of the coffee tree. When we roast green coffee beans, they lose moisture and begin to develop sugars through a process called caramelization. Because of this loss of moisture, they become more eager to absorb water, making the fridge, with its high moisture environment, not an ideal place for them.
Inside a refrigerator, there's quite a bit of moisture - you'll notice it as soon as you open the door. This environment causes both whole and ground coffee beans to absorb moisture quickly. Essentially, this starts the brewing process prematurely. So, when you eventually use beans or grounds that have been stored in the fridge, you're actually using coffee that is stale and has already begun brewing. Coffee like this won’t taste fresh or pleasant, which is why it's not a good idea to keep your coffee in the refrigerator.
The question of storing coffee in the freezer is still up for discussion. However, we believe that freshly roasted coffee is unbeatable. The key is to protect it from oxygen, moisture, and light, which speed up the aging process. Our coffee bags are specially crafted for effective storage. Simply press out as much air as you can when you seal the bag. The built-in valve and zipper are designed to keep oxygen out, helping your coffee stay fresh.
Keep Away from Air, Moisture, and Light
- Why It Matters: Air, moisture, and light are the main culprits that cause coffee to lose its freshness and flavor. When exposed to these elements, coffee beans start to oxidize, which can lead to a stale taste. Moisture can trigger the brewing process even before the coffee is actually brewed, while light can degrade the quality of the beans.
- Our Special Packaging: To combat these issues, our coffee is packed in specially designed bags. These bags are not just any ordinary packaging; they are engineered to provide an almost airtight environment. This helps in significantly reducing the exposure to air and moisture. Additionally, the material of the bag is opaque to protect the beans from light, ensuring that the coffee's rich flavors and aromas are well-preserved until you’re ready to enjoy it.
Store in a Cool, Dark Place
- Importance of Temperature and Light Conditions: Heat can accelerate the degradation of coffee beans, altering their flavor profile. Similarly, as mentioned earlier, light exposure can negatively affect the beans.
- Ideal Storage Location: A cupboard or a pantry that is away from sources of heat like ovens, stoves, or direct sunlight is ideal. This environment ensures that the beans are kept in a stable, cool condition, which is crucial for maintaining their freshness and flavor integrity over time.
Grind Just Before Brewing
- Freshness and Flavor: Grinding coffee beans right before brewing is perhaps one of the most significant steps you can take to ensure a delicious cup of coffee. Once coffee beans are ground, they start to lose their flavor rapidly due to increased exposure to air and moisture.
- Maximizing Taste: By grinding the beans just before brewing, you are ensuring that the coffee’s full flavor profile is intact. This results in a more aromatic and flavorful cup of coffee. It’s the difference between a good cup of coffee and a great one. The fresh grind releases the oils and flavors that are at their peak just after grinding, giving you the freshest and most robust flavor possible.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that each cup of coffee you brew is as fresh and flavorful as possible, bringing out the best in our carefully crafted beans.
