Storing Ground Coffee for Maximum Freshness
Why Storing Ground Coffee is Important
It’s no secret that coffee is a beloved beverage around the world. But to truly enjoy all the flavors and aromas that coffee has to offer, it’s essential to store it properly. If you don’t store ground coffee correctly, you’ll end up with a cup that is overly bitter, stale, or has a chemical-like taste. To get the most out of your ground coffee, you’ll want to make sure it is stored properly.
Ideal Storage Conditions for Ground Coffee
Ground coffee should be stored in an airtight container. This container should be opaque, as light can degrade the coffee over time. It’s also important to avoid storing the ground coffee near strong-smelling foods, such as onions or garlic, as the coffee is highly absorbent and can take on other aromas. The best temperature to keep your ground coffee is between 40-70 degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in a hot or humid climate, it’s best to store the ground coffee in the refrigerator.
How Long Does Ground Coffee Last?
Ground coffee will typically last between one to two weeks if stored correctly. If kept in ideal conditions, you can extend its shelf-life to up to one month. If you’re not sure how long your ground coffee has been stored, it’s best to discard it and get a fresh batch.
How to Tell if Ground Coffee Has Gone Bad
If your ground coffee has been stored correctly and it’s still within its shelf-life, then it should smell fresh and have a pleasant taste. If it smells sour or stale, then it’s likely gone bad. Additionally, if it has an overly bitter or chemical-like taste, then it’s definitely time to discard it and get a fresh batch.
Freezing Ground Coffee
If you’re looking for a way to extend the shelf-life of your ground coffee, then you may want to consider freezing it. To do this, make sure the ground coffee is stored in an airtight and freezer-safe container. It’s also best to only freeze what you need for a few weeks at a time, as the coffee will start to lose its flavor after a few months. Once you’re ready to use the frozen ground coffee, just take it out of the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature before using it.