When it comes to storing coffee beans, it is of utmost importance to pay attention to some practices that maintain the flavor and freshness of this beverage so loved by Americans.
That’s because improper storage of the beans can quickly turn even the best variety into a dull and disappointing drink. This is especially relevant for establishments in the food service industry, where maintaining consistency and quality directly impacts customer satisfaction.
So, you must be wondering: how do I store coffee beans?
Don’t worry! By following a few simple tips, you’ll understand how to preserve coffee beans in your establishment and ensure the perfect cup for your customers. Keep reading!
The main enemies of coffee beans
Before diving into how to store coffee beans, it’s worth understanding the factors that can degrade their quality over time.
In short, oxygen, humidity, light, and heat are the main culprits responsible for diminishing the flavor and aroma of the beans. Exposure to these elements can accelerate the aging process and result in the loss of freshness.
How long do coffee beans last?
The shelf life of coffee beans is influenced by several factors, with the roasting date and storage conditions playing crucial roles.
Freshly roasted coffee beans generally have a shelf life of two to four weeks, during which they maintain their peak flavor and aroma. However, this timeline can vary depending on storage practices. And that’s what we’ll address next.
Storing coffee beans: what’s the best way?
While brewing methods undeniably play an important role, the foundation of a delicious cup lies in the bean itself.
Freshly roasted coffee beans are full of complex flavors and aromas. However, these delicate compounds are susceptible to enemies, as mentioned earlier.
To combat them, here are some basic tips on how to store coffee beans:
- Use airtight containers
Exposure to oxygen is one of the main factors that accelerate the degradation of coffee beans.
Therefore, to minimize the oxidation process, store your coffee beans in airtight containers, preferably made of materials like ceramic, stainless steel, or opaque glass. This helps maintain the flavor profile and prevent obsolescence.
Additionally, avoid storing coffee beans in bags with reusable seals, as they may not offer sufficient protection.
- Store coffee beans in a dark place
Light also affects how coffee beans are stored, promoting oxidation and harming the flavor.
Thus, use non-transparent containers and opt for a storage location away from direct sunlight, such as a pantry or cupboard, to protect your beans from harmful UV rays.
- Beware of humid places
Humidity is another enemy that can compromise the quality of coffee beans, resulting in unpleasant flavors and odors.
To prevent this from happening, avoid storing them in humid places like the refrigerator, as coffee is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the surrounding environment.
Instead, choose a dry storage area and don’t forget to use airtight containers, as mentioned above.
- Freeze only when necessary
Many people store coffee beans in the freezer to prolong their freshness. However, this practice can introduce moisture and compromise the flavor if not done correctly.
Thus, resort to freezing beans only if you anticipate long periods of storage, and ensure they are properly sealed to avoid moisture absorption.
- Grind only what you will use
To preserve the flavor and freshness of coffee beans for longer, it is essential to store them whole, as they have less exposure to oxygen, slowing down oxidation and retaining the volatile compounds that provide the coffee’s flavor.
In light of this, grind only the amount of coffee needed immediately before brewing it.
- Buy the right amount
Although it may be tempting to stock up on bulk quantities of coffee beans, it is essential to find a balance between freshness and inventory management.
So, the best option, especially for those offering customers only high-quality specialty coffee beans, which are often seasonal, is to buy only the amount forecasted in your planning to allow for optimal flavor retention.
In this scenario, it’s essential to know your target audience. Understanding their preferences, consumption habits, and seasonal demand can help you adjust your stock and ensure you always provide fresh, high-quality coffee beans.
Read also: How to track changes in customer behavior?
- Purchase specialty coffee beans from trusted suppliers
Ensure that your supplier has an established reputation for quality and integrity in their coffee bean selection. Prioritize freshly roasted beans, ideally within a week of the roasting date.
Check the roasting dates on the packaging to ensure you’re getting the freshest beans available.
So, did you like the tips on how to store coffee beans? Don’t forget that, beyond storage, the proper cultivation of the beans is the foundation for a flavorful beverage. Therefore, investing in high-quality products is the first step to providing an exceptional experience for your customers.
Lucky Hills: guaranteed freshness with Brazilian coffee beans roasted in Florida
Lucky Hills coffee beans are imported directly from southern Minas Gerais, Brazil, and locally roasted on demand in Florida, ensuring freshness and quality even for the most discerning palates.
Our specialty coffee truly embodies its terroir, with memorable aromas and flavors found nowhere else on the planet.
Contact our consultants and learn how to acquire our specialty coffee varieties for your business.
