How to Store Ground Coffee? We Finally Settle the Pantry vs. Freezer Debate

Coffee is a non-negotiable grocery item in nearly every home in the U.S., but do you know how to store ground coffee for lasting freshness? There's a lot of confusion regarding storing coffee beans or grounds and many debate their preference for the pantry vs. the freezer. Here, coffee experts share why it's best to store your coffee in the pantry and when it's OK to store it in the freezer—plus why it matters.

Tips for Storing Ground Coffee

The best way to keep ground coffee fresh is to store the coffee on a pantry shelf in an opaque, airtight container. It should be away from light, heat, and moisture, says Scott McMartin of Nomi Brew, who has tasted over half a million cups of coffee in his career. (If you don't have a canister, close the top of the manufacturer's bag with a rubber band, then put the bag in a resealable plastic bag.)

Storing Ground Coffee vs. Whole Beans

You may wonder if storing whole beans or already-ground coffee is better. The truth is that like ground coffee, whole beans also need to be stored in an opaque airtight container, away from moisture, heat, and light (so in a dry, cool, and dark spot—like your pantry). The main difference between ground coffee and roasted whole beans is that grinding your own coffee beans provides a fresher cup of coffee for you to enjoy.

In either case, use ceramic containers (ideally) or glass containers (though they allow light to enter, so be sure to store them in a dark place). Avoid storing coffee in plastic or metal containers, as they can impact the flavor.

How Long Does Ground Coffee Stay Fresh?

Ground coffee tends to stay fresh for up to two weeks when stored properly, following the suggested tips. Storing coffee for too long will affect its taste and quality. Buying smaller quantities or packages of ground coffee can help keep it fresh, as you'll use it within the ideal time. If coffee has a foul odor or shows signs of mold or discoloration, then it has spoiled and you'll want to toss it.

On the other hand, roasted whole bean coffee can last up to a month after opening the package (if stored properly). If you store whole beans, it's best to grind only the amount you'll be brewing to keep the beans fresher longer.

When Freezing Coffee Is OK

When you freeze the coffee you use every day, the fluctuating temperatures create moisture in the packet, which can leave your morning cup tasting like cardboard. "The cell structure changes, which causes a loss of the oils that give coffee its aroma and flavor," says McMartin. So why do so many coffee connoisseurs keep their coffee in the freezer? They probably stock up and store the coffee there for a longer time.

To keep ground coffee fresh long-term, you can freeze it in an unopened, sealed container—like its original packaging. Many people also vacuum seal their ground coffee before freezing. Stored like this, ground coffee will last about a year in the freezer, though it's best to use it in a month or two.

Whole beans can be frozen for up to a month, provided you're not taking them out during that period. "For a large amount of coffee, first divide it into smaller portions, then freeze the portions in airtight bags," suggests Robert Nelson of the National Coffee Association. When you remove the frozen beans, put them on a shelf to thaw, and grind and brew within two weeks, so the coffee is truly good to the last drop.