3: The Future of Processed Foods

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Its quite possible youre sipping on stale coffee.

For starters, Kappler says to analyze how the coffee reacts with water upon contact.

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This is a visual cue that the beans are still at their prime.

In tandem with how the coffee looks, Kappler also notes how it tastes and smells.

So, what exactly makes these precious beans go bad?

Photography of a apple juice in glasses and apples in a wicker basket on wooden table

coffee technologist and curator

After that, exposure to oxygen turns the natural oils rancid and bitter, Kappler says.

The size of your container in relation to the volume of coffee is also important.

Coffee bags with valves can also help keep beans fresher.

red pigment in a wooden spoon

And, unfortunately, once the coffee has gone rancid, theres no turning back.

Think of it this way: Can you revive a rotten tomato or a carton of rotten eggs?

For peak quality, brew your coffee beans within a week or two for optimal freshness.

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Other steps to take to make the freshest coffee at home

1.

Buy freshly-roasted beans

For starters, Kappler recommends using freshly-roasted beans whenever possible.

check that youre buying beans that were freshly roasted.

Cropped shot of young woman shopping in the dairy section of a supermarket. She is reading the nutrition label on a container of fresh organic healthy natural yoghurt

coffee technologist and curator

If youre curious when the coffee at your local coffee shop was roasted, just ask!

If they dont know the answer, chances are its probably stale.

Whole beans trap the carbon dioxide and aromas inside.

A hand is stirring a sourdough starter in a glass jar, on a kitchen countertop. The light casts a warm glow, highlighting the ingredients inside the jar.

This also correlates to how finely-ground the coffee is.

Use a burr grinder

Kappler recommends keeping a burr grinder handy at all times.

I like aBaratzaor aTIMEMOREhand grinder.

Two cups with coffee and green tea on a beige background.

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