How to keep coffee beans fresh

Coffee's four enemies

Air, light, heat and moisture. Each one speeds up the loss of aroma and flavour. Good storage simply keeps coffee away from all four.

How to store it

• An airtight, opaque container in a cool, dry place, away from the stove and the sun. A vacuum canister like the Fellow Atmos is even better.
• Not in the fridge. Every time you take it out, moisture condenses on it, and it picks up fridge smells.
• Freezer only for the long term: divide into small, well-sealed portions, take out one at a time, and don't put it back.

How much to buy

Buy enough for two to four weeks. That way you're always drinking coffee at its best.

Whole beans or ground?

Whole beans stay fresh much longer. Ground coffee loses its aroma quickly, so it's best to grind just before brewing. No grinder? Order coffee ground especially for you after you order, in smaller amounts.

Common mistakes

• A clear glass jar on the counter – it looks nice, but light damages coffee. If it's clear, keep it in a cupboard.
• Moving the beans into a big, half-empty tin – the air left in it stales them. A valve bag that seals well, or a vacuum canister, is better.
• Taking beans out of the freezer and putting them back – every thaw leaves moisture on the beans.

Frequently asked questions

How long do coffee beans stay fresh?

Whole beans in a sealed valve bag are at their best for about a month from roasting and stay good after that. Once opened, finish them within two to three weeks.

Why do coffee bags have a valve?

Freshly roasted coffee releases carbon dioxide. The one-way valve lets the gas out without letting air in, so the bag doesn't puff up and the coffee keeps.

Can I keep coffee in the fridge?

It's best not to. Each time you take it out, moisture forms on it, and it absorbs smells. A cool, dry cupboard is better.

What can I do with old coffee?

Coffee that has lost its aroma is still fine for cold brew, where delicate flavours matter less.