Dried, unopened whole coffee beans can last up to a year, while opened whole beans generally stay fresh for one week to one month. Ground coffee, whether pre-ground or ground from whole beans, has a shorter lifespan.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Unopened Whole Beans: If stored correctly in a sealed, airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture, whole coffee beans can retain their freshness for up to 12 months. The oils within the bean, which contribute to flavor, degrade more slowly when the bean is whole.
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Opened Whole Beans: Once you open a bag of whole beans, exposure to air accelerates the oxidation process, causing the coffee to lose its flavor and aroma. Consume opened whole beans within one week to one month for the best quality.
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Unopened Ground Coffee: Pre-ground coffee, even unopened, degrades faster than whole beans. It typically stays fresh for a few months if stored properly.
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Opened Ground Coffee: Ground coffee has the shortest shelf life. Once opened, it should be used within a few days. Because the coffee has already been ground, a much larger surface area is exposed to the air, speeding up the staling process.
Factors Affecting Freshness:
- Storage: Proper storage in an airtight container is crucial.
- Light: Exposure to light degrades coffee beans.
- Heat: Avoid storing coffee near heat sources.
- Moisture: Moisture can lead to mold and staleness.
- Roast Date: Pay attention to the roast date, not just the "best by" date. Coffee is generally best consumed shortly after roasting.
Signs of Stale Coffee:
- Lack of aroma
- Dull or muted flavor
- Sour or bitter taste
While stale coffee isn't harmful to consume, the flavor won't be as enjoyable.
