April 12, 2023
Fresh morning coffee — is there anything better? When your customers pick up a bag of beans or ground, they expect the freshest cup of coffee possible. No matter the quality of your beans or how methodical your roasting technique is, it's not good if it's not fresh.
That's where the correct coffee packaging comes in.
Here's the thing — from the moment you roast the beans, they're losing freshness. If you grind your beans, you've only sped up the process. Sealing in that signature freshness is as much an art as the roasting process. Don't worry; we're revealing the secrets to the best packaging of coffee that will maintain the impressive quality of your product and extend its shelf life.
Let's get started!
Doing it right is crucial for maintaining the quality and freshness of your coffee. You'll lock in the flavor your customers desire with the suitable material and packaging.
Not convinced?
Here are the main reasons why choosing the right coffee packaging is so important:
In truth, oxidation, and degradation begins the moment the beans are roasted. However, it can take a little longer until even the most seasoned coffee drinker can tell the difference. There's also a big difference between whole beans and ground coffee. Whole beans typically have a longer shelf life than ground, as less surface area is exposed to the air, slowing down the oxidation process.
Whole coffee beans last up to six months if stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture, and of course, using the right coffee bean packaging. However, some coffee enthusiasts swear that you must brew freshly roasted coffee beans within two to three weeks of the roast date to ensure optimal flavor and aroma.
Ground coffee, on the other hand, has a shorter shelf life because it has more surface area exposed to air, which speeds up the oxidation process. Nevertheless, ground coffee can last up to two weeks if stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
It's essential to understand the science behind the freshness of coffee to preserve its quality and flavor. Coffee freshness is crucial to the overall coffee-drinking experience. When coffee loses its freshness, it can become stale, flat, and bitter, with a muted aroma and flavor.
Four main factors affect coffee freshness: space, oxygen, temperature, and time. Let's take a closer look at each one:
Too much space leaves a greater ratio of coffee to air. The more air present, the faster the oxidation process. The best packaging bags for coffee leave as little air as possible, sealing in the freshness.
Oxygen is one of the main culprits behind coffee's degradation. Exposure to oxygen causes the coffee to oxidize, leading to the loss of flavor and aroma. Therefore, packaging coffee should be as airtight as possible to prevent oxygen infiltration.
Coffee degradation is a chemical reaction. Higher temperatures naturally speed up this reaction (and promote mold and bacterial growth), causing coffee to lose its flavor and aroma faster. Coffee should, therefore, be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Moreover, packaging coffee bags should work to keep coffee as cool and dry as possible.
Time is another critical factor in coffee freshness. As time passes, coffee naturally loses its freshness and flavor. Therefore, coffee should be consumed as soon as possible after roasting or purchasing to ensure optimal flavor and aroma.
In addition, four aroma compounds play a crucial role in coffee freshness. These compounds are methanethiol, propanol, 2,3-butanedione, and methylpyrazine. This flavorsome foursome is responsible for coffee's signature aroma and taste – these compounds degrade or react over time.
Choosing the right bags to store coffee is critical for preserving coffee's quality, freshness, and aroma. Here are a handful of factors to consider when selecting the best one:
Coffee bags should be airtight to prevent oxygen from getting in. Look for bags with one-way valves that allow carbon dioxide to escape while preventing oxygen from getting in.
Common packaging materials include paper, plastic, and foil. Each has its pros and cons – depending on whether you value shelf life, coffee flavor, or environmental impact. For example, foil bags minimize oxygen and light penetration but aren't as biodegradable or environmentally friendly as their paper counterparts.
The size of the bags for coffee packaging should be appropriate for the amount of coffee you will store. Too much empty space results in too much air being present (as mentioned), leading to coffee losing its freshness more quickly.
The design of the coffee bags should also be considered, as it can impact the overall coffee-drinking experience. For example, bags with a resealable zip lock or a tear notch for easy opening can be convenient for consumers, while bags with a flat bottom can help the bag stand upright and be more stable during storage.
At PLAN IT Packaging, our high-quality machinery helps you seal in your coffee's distinct flavor and freshness. Our machines handle various bag styles and sizes and are easy to use and efficient, ensuring your coffee stays as delicious and delectable as the day it was bagged.
Schedule a free consultation to talk through your requirements with our expert team. We'll help you determine the right packaging solution to meet your needs. We're dedicated to the most excellent coffee-drinking experience possible. So, don't let your flavor drift away after all your dedication to the perfect roast and bean. Contact us today and find out more about the right coffee packaging solutions.
