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BEYOND THE BEANS: THE LITTLE HOLE THAT MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE IN YOUR COFFEE BAG


You are a coffee lover, I believe you have tried many different types of coffee from different regions, processing methods, and varieties. But did you notice, it seems that all the coffee packaging of each type of roasted coffee is preserved in the form of beans or roasts that you drink. All appear a small circle with tiny holes, also known as "one-way valve". And when you put your nose close to that small hole, you will feel the aroma of coffee beans. In this blog, iO coffee and you will dive into the science that leads to the attraction behind the seemingly insignificant tiny holes that have a big impact on the quality of your coffee.



 

Those holes maintain the freshness of your coffee



While some people believe that the holes in coffee bags are primarily for releasing the aroma, there's a more scientific reason behind their presence: they play a crucial role in preserving the freshness of your coffee. Although it may seem counterintuitive since holes can potentially allow air in, these holes are specifically designed to prevent your coffee from going stale too quickly.


During the roasting process, coffee beans emit carbon dioxide, which, if trapped inside the bag without any escape route, can cause it to inflate like a balloon. This inflation can lead to the bag bursting or the coffee beans becoming stale due to prolonged exposure to excess carbon dioxide. However, the small holes in the coffee bag serve as a means for the carbon dioxide to escape while effectively preventing air from entering. This equilibrium ensures that the coffee beans retain their freshness and flavor for a longer period.


 

Expanding freshness solutions: Exploring valves as an alternative


Certain coffee bags may feature a one-way valve instead of conventional holes, serving a similar purpose by facilitating the release of carbon dioxide. If your bag has this valve, you can use it to keep air out of your coffee. Once the bag is opened, you can securely reseal it using the accompanying tabs or tape. Subsequently, squeeze the bag, and air will leave via the valve.


It is crucial to understand that coffee beans can go bad over time, even if they are stored in their original packaging. To extend their shelf life, it is advisable to transfer opened bags of coffee grounds into an opaque and airtight container. This container should then be stored in a cool, dark location, After all, light and heat can make whole coffee beans or ground coffee go bad faster. For the freshest coffee, you should use your grounds within two weeks of opening the bag or 1 month for whole-bean coffee.




We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights on how to maintain the freshness of your coffee. Just as we meticulously handle every batch of our coffee, we believe that following these guidelines will ensure you enjoy the best possible coffee experience. By employing proper storage techniques and keeping your coffee in optimal condition, you can savor the delightful flavors and aromas of every cup. Our commitment to quality extends from the coffee we produce to the knowledge we share, and we sincerely hope that our efforts contribute to your coffee enjoyment.


 

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