Storage

Green beans are sent to roasters all over the world in 60kg sacks. Bulk supplies are transported in large containers lined with plastic. To prevent damage, ventilation and humidity must be carefully controlled during storage and transport. 

 Green beans store well but once they have been roasted they become more vulnerable to deterioration. Roasted beans should be used or packaged in airtight containers soon after roasting. Ground coffee deteriorates even more quickly than whole roasted beans.

Whole Roasted

Freshly roasted beans release carbon dioxide, which needs time to escape. Therefore beans should be allowed to ‘de-gas’ for at least 12 hours and up to 72 hours, before being packed or ground. 

Whole roasted beans can be packaged in airtight bags fitted with one-way valves to release any built-up carbon dioxide. Whole beans can also be vacuum-sealed into brick-like packs, also with one-way valves attached. 

Beans should not be exposed to light which can break down the flavoursome oils in the beans. Back-up supplies of beans must be stored in a cool, dry, dark place.

Ground Roasted

Pre-ground beans are packaged and stored in much the same way as whole roasted beans. Once beans are ground in a grinder-doser they should be used up within an hour. 

Ground beans leftover in the grinder-doser at the end of the day should not be used the next day and should be disposed of according to an establishment’s policy.

The 5 Enemies of Coffee

Time

Coffee beans can be quite durable before roasting but very perishable after roasting.

• Green beans can last more than a year.

• Roasted beans last about a week once the packaging is opened.

• Ground beans last a maximum of an hour once ground or the packaging is opened.

Moisture

Dry beans reabsorb moisture when exposed to damp conditions. This reduces the quality of the beans and can lead to mould growth.

Light

Light affects the oils on the surface of the medium and darker roasts and causes them to begin to break down which can cause the beans to go stale.

Air

Oxygen in the air causes the beans to oxidise and odours from strong flavoured foods can be absorbed by the coffee beans. This is a reason to avoid storing beans in the refrigerator when food is present.

Heat

Heat speeds up the oxidation and evaporation of oils. Beans should be stored away from the coffee machine and any other sources of heat.