How Long Does Coffee Last?
Coffee is an all-time drink among most people. The fresh taste is what makes it very appealing and tasty. However, how long does coffee last? On average, coffee can lasts 3 – 5 months, or even years, depending on what state: whole beans, ground, or instant coffee, and the method in which you store them.
In this article, we will break down the most common method of storing your coffee, answer the most common questions, and, better yet, how to extend the lifespan of all coffee types. Let’s begin.
How Long Before Coffee Goes Bad?
The shelf life of your coffee depends on storage conditions and its preparation. Be sure all coffee gear is clean, or else that can affect how long before it goes bad!
When Sealed or Unopened
- In a cold cellar or pantry at room temperature, ground coffee lasts between 3 – 5 months. In a freezer for up to 1 – 2 years
- Whole beans last 6 – 9 months at room temperature and in a freezer for up to 2 – 3 years
- Instant coffee ranges between 2 – 18 years in the pantry; for the most extended shelf life keeping the aluminum layer sealed will keep the moisture out, and in a freezer no expiry date.
In general, freezers extend the lifespan of coffee the longest; second is the fridge.
When Opened
- Ground coffee lasts 2 – 4 months at room temperature in a pantry or freezer.
- Freshly roasted beans can last 4 – 6 months and a maximum of 2 years in the freezer
- Instant coffee with an aluminum layer removed lasts for years, depending on the re-packaging. Storage in the pantry or freezer neatly wrapped in a zip lock bag for maximum freshness.
Coffee doesn’t go bad in a way you get sick or spoil; the pleasant aromas and much of the taste will be gone. Often appearing lighter in color from its original, the best way to tell is by using your nose.
What Are The Best Methods Of Storing Coffee?
If coffee goes bad, you won’t get sick or spoil; however, the pleasant aroma and much of the taste will be gone. It often appears lighter in color than its original. Here we will discuss the best ways of storing coffee!
1. Store whole beans – storing whole beans helps the coffee retain taste and flavor. Furthermore, a simple way to store the coffee before brewing. You might be asking yourself, why not store ground coffee, right? Well, whole beans last longer than ground and are a wise option.
2. Keep in a dry place away from moisture – moisture is the most significant danger to freshness. Coffee can absorb ambient temperatures from its surroundings because of hygroscopic. This results in spoilage, and therefore it is essential to store them in a dry place
- Freshness is Everything - Our coffee canisters help maintain the freshness of your coffee beans by keeping air out and free of harmful oxidation with a one-way CO2 valve and 100% BPA-free silicone rubber seal.
- Date Tracker & Free Scoop - Ensure your coffee is always fresh and not expired. You can set the storage or expiry dates with the date tracker on the lid of your Veken coffee storage canister. We also offer a free stainless steel coffee scoop, which can be attached to the hook!
- 304 Stainless Steel - As a coffee lover, you must never compromise on the material and quality of your coffee container. Veken containers are made of thick, high quality stainless steel to create a comfortable environment for coffee beans.
3. Away from windows or heat – Store in a cool and dark place, a kitchen cabinet, or a dark pantry at room temperature. Exposure to heat and direct sunlight spoils the coffee.
4. Limit the amount of oxygen – when you leave the coffee exposed to oxygen, it absorbs aromatic oils and ambient air. However, solve this by storing coffee beans in an airtight container. Most companies sell their coffee in airtight containers. Choose a coffee canister with a built-in valve that releases co2 emitted by the beans.
5. Order small batches of roasted coffee – the most straightforward way always to have fresh coffee is by ordering from a local coffee roaster; this way, nothing is wasted, and always fresh.
6. Avoid clear storage containers – coffee beans are compromised by sunlight, and stored in a clear container allows sunlight to penetrate, leaving you with flavorless/stale beans. Purchase a dark container instead
How Long Does Coffee Last In The Fridge?
Black coffee in the fridge lasts 1 – 2 weeks; recommend storing it in an airtight container to preserve the flavor. However, the best-tasting coffee lasts 2 – 3 days without any milk or sweetener and with creamer, a maximum of 4 days. Here we have listed what to consider below!
1. Do not add any milk or sugar before storing it in the fridge – this will minimize the chance of bacteria growth
2. Once the brewing is complete, cool it down as quickly as possible – this will stop any oxidization and keep the coffee fresh.
3. Pouring any coffee back into the pot or cup – may contain saliva, which jump-starts bacteria growth
4. Store coffee in the fridge at 35° F (1.6° C) – items that spoil quickly should always be kept near the back; furthermore, less heat is lost as the back of the fridge is always the coldest.
5. Do not expose freshly brewed coffee to other products – this will alter the flavor and aromas of whatever the coffee contacts (especially when stored in the fridge).
Tips: If you do not want to waste freshly brewed coffee, freezing leftovers into unwanted ice cube trays prevents waste and is perfect for browning gravy.
Tips On Making Coffee Taste Better?
Many reasons attributed to coffee tasting bitter; ever poured coffee only to taste a bitter cup? The most common is the extraction process in which water mixes with ground coffee.
1. Temperature Of The Water Is Too Hot – Ideal water temperature is between 195°F to 205°F; coffee is extracted best within this range. Careful not to exceed 205°F as this will result in a burnt taste and lack of flavors.
2. Wrong Grind Size – most people forget the importance of proper grind size. Furthermore, coarse coffee will risk being under-extracted, salty, acidic, and sour. Finely ground – risks being over-extracted, bitter, and taste of any flavourful notes.
3. Coffee Steeps For Too Long – Often, people leave coffee in the French Press even after the plunger has been pushed down; the extraction process continues long after the
4. Equipment That Needs To Be Cleaned – Residue that can be left on overused equipment builds, overall affecting the flavors. We recommend running the coffee machine with 1/2 hot water, and 1/2 white vinegar on two complete cycles or until the mixture becomes clear.
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Can You Freeze Ground Coffee?
Yes, one of the simplest ways to preserve ground coffee’s shelf life is by freezing them. However, ensure it’s vacuum sealed or stored in an airtight container. This will prevent freezer burn and keep the coffee as fresh as possible.
Choosing to freeze can be critical; however, removing the required amount to last you a week will prevent condensation from collecting and thawing out.
Final Thoughts
By now, you can make a better choice for storing coffee and ensuring these steps for your coffee to last the longest!