There's something magical about the taste and smell of a freshly brewed cup of coffee . On the other hand, stale, stale coffee can be frustrating.
Coffee aficionados can immediately tell the difference between fresh coffee and stale coffee that's been stored for months or even years. But if you're still unsure how to do it, this article is perfect for you.
Can ground coffee go bad?
Coffee beans, like all other beans, can spoil. And while whole coffee has a slightly longer shelf life, ground coffee won't last as long. Due to the decomposition process, they are much more susceptible to unwanted chemical reactions: their evaporation rate is faster than that of whole beans.
On average, the shelf life of ground coffee is 3 to 5 months at room temperature if sealed and a couple of weeks for opened packages.
If you're worried about bacteria or other nasty contaminants, the chances of that happening are slim. Unless you store your coffee in an exceptionally humid place, it will still be safe to consume because the roasting process significantly reduces the moisture.
The only thing that fades over time is flavor. The longer it sits on the shelf, the less flavorful the coffee will be.
How do you know if your coffee is stale?
When coffee goes stale, your eye won't be able to detect any differences because the physical appearance remains the same. If you suspect your coffee has gone bad, the best thing you can do is smell it.
Freshly brewed coffee has a strong, caramel-like fragrance, but once it's past its prime, these oils degrade. The aroma will no longer be pleasant, and your nose will likely detect a dusty, ashtray-like smell.
If you've already made it, let it sit for about an hour and then taste it. If it's super acidic with intense, bitter notes, it's most likely rancid.
Can instant coffee go bad?
Instant coffee is a highly processed ground coffee, but unlike its larger counterparts, it can last longer. Virtually indestructible, an opened package of instant coffee can be safely consumed for up to two years.
But the question remains: can it go bad? Yes, like any type of coffee, instant coffee can also go rancid. To check if your coffee has gone bad, we have the same recommendation: smell it. If it has an unpleasant odor, you should probably discard it.
What is the typical shelf life of coffee?
If you buy whole grains, try to use them within four weeks of purchase. That's when they taste best. They may be safe to eat for a couple of months if stored properly, but the flavor will disappear.
Ground coffee spoils faster. It has more surface area exposed to oxygen and carbon dioxide, which can accelerate the oxidation process. Try to use it within a few days of opening the package. It may still be safe to consume for a few weeks.
If you've already made your coffee, try to consume it within 12 hours. You can refrigerate it and get a few more days of life out of it.
It's also a good idea to have a general idea of your coffee's expiration date in the back of your mind.
Can stale coffee make me sick?
The chances of bacteria forming on the beans are minimal, so the risk of poisoning is low. Some people won't have any problems making it through the shelf life. In which case, we suggest using more coffee, adding sweeteners or flavorings, or enjoying a latte to regain some of the lost flavor.
Conclusion
No matter what type of coffee you have, the best way to tell if it's stale is to smell it. If it smells sour, bitter, or reminds you of an ashtray, don't drink it. If you want your coffee to last as long as possible, store it in a dark, airtight, dry, and cool place.
That way, you can get the most out of your coffee. Finally, remember that coffee is always best fresh. Try to consume it as soon as possible after purchasing it.
If you want to learn more ways to protect your coffee, read our article: Where Should You Store Your Coffee?