How to Tell if Coffee Is Quality: What to Look for Before Buying

Labels like "gold selection," "artisan," or "premium" are often just marketing and do not guarantee traceability. Quality coffee is recognized by the data on the label, not by adjectives.

Before purchasing, check three transparency indicators:

•     Actual roasting date: not the "expiration date" (sometimes extended to two years). Specialty coffee is best consumed between 7 and 45 days after roasting to enjoy its peak aroma.

•     Producer identity: if the label only shows the country (e.g., Brazil), it’s a weak signal. A serious roaster indicates the finca, cooperative, or micro-lot.

•     Opaque packaging with valve: light and UV rays oxidize the coffee’s oils. Prefer opaque, multilayer high-barrier bags with a one-way degassing valve, avoiding transparent packaging.