Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Whole Coffee Beans expire?
While whole coffee beans don't technically 'expire', they can lose their flavor and freshness over time. Unopened, whole coffee beans can maintain their freshness for about 6 months to a year if stored properly. Once the bag is opened, the beans should be used within 1 to 2 weeks for the best taste, although they can last up to a month without becoming harmful to consume. If you choose to put your whole coffee beans in a freezer, they can be stored for up to 3 months.
How do you tell if Whole Coffee Beans is bad?
Testing if your whole coffee beans have gone bad is a multi-sensory process. A visual clue would be the presence of oils on the surface of the beans; excessive oil means that the beans are old. The beans may also appear dull and not as shiny as fresh beans. The best indication, however, is the smell. If the beans lack their distinctive coffee aroma or have a musty, unpleasant odor, they have most likely gone stale. Consuming stale coffee beans isn't harmful but will result in a less flavorful brew.
Tips for storing Whole Coffee Beans to extend shelf life
• Store your whole coffee beans in an opaque, air-tight container to keep light, air and moisture from affecting them.
• Keep the containers in a cool, dry and dark place like a pantry or cabinet, away from the oven, as heat can affect their quality.
• Avoid keeping coffee beans in the refrigerator; the fluctuating temperatures can cause condensation, changing their flavor. Freezing is only a better option if you have bulk amounts.
• If you choose to freeze them, make sure to do it in an air-tight container. Defrost them completely before grinding and brewing, and note that once defrosted, they should not be refrozen.