Thursday, June 26, 2008
How Long Does Coffee Last
Whole bean coffee that is not roasted does not have a shelf life. Once it is roasted the expectancy begins. Many coffee fanatics will give you different opinions on how long coffee will last once it has been roasted. I have heard that it can last as long as 2-3 months before it is ground. However, ground coffee only has a 2-2 1/2 week life expectancy.
My own research on this subject is that whole bean coffee taste the best 1 day after it’s roasted date and up to 2 weeks before it begins to loose its flavors. However, flavors begin to evaporate from the time it is roasted. My tip is to purchase 1/2 lb to 1 lb at a time and make sure you drink it within the first week. Otherwise, it just does not taste the same. If you are use to Folders or Maxwell House coffee and never been introduced to quality coffee, then even the store bought Starbucks off the shelf (2 month roast most likely) will taste good to you. If you want to try my coffee or any coffee and drink it the first week, you’ll be hooked!
One quick piece of advice: never freeze your coffee? If you want to know why, post a comment and I’ll explain.