How to Store Coffee Beans at Home: Common Mistakes and Correct Methods
The refrigerator is one of the most common mistakes: it is full of moisture and odors. Coffee is a hygroscopic and porous material, so it behaves like a sponge, absorbing moisture (with condensation upon opening) and capturing odors, losing its aroma.
The four enemies of coffee are oxygen, direct light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations. Freshly roasted beans should be stored in the original packaging with a one-way valve, which allows CO2 from degassing to escape while preventing oxygen from entering and oxidizing the fats. Keep the sealed bag in a dark pantry at a constant room temperature (15-22°C). It is better to buy small batches of recently roasted beans (e.g., 250 g) for maximum freshness.