Should I store my coffee beans in the fridge?

by bill liss
(atlanta)

QUESTION:

I normally store coffee in ziplock bags in the fridge. Does that destroy the beans over time? Or is it okay? If not, what is the very best way to store good beans to keep them fresh and keep the quality? Thank you

ANSWER:

You're right to seal your coffee in a ziplock bag, although any airtight container will suffice.

As for the fridge, that's not the best place. If you want to store coffee for a few weeks or more, you're better off putting them in the freezer section. Just make sure the container is absolutely airtight.

But the whole question of storing coffee long-term raises another question. Why store it anyway? Why not buy just enough to last for a few days, and then buy some more, fresh-roasted beans?

Even if you live out of town, you can order online and get beans that have been roasted that very day.

Coffee beans, once roasted, start losing the subtleties of their flavors very quickly.

There may be a cost advantage to buying in bulk, but you'll lose some of the flavor if you store the beans for too long.