Here’s How You Can Store Coffee Pods So They Last Long

Coffee flavours depend heavily on their freshness. This means the time elapsed since it was roasted and the time since it was ground. And since we’re on the topic of coffee pods, determining freshness and flavours is a complicated matter.

Beans are usually wrapped in parchment to retain their freshness, even before ground. Once you grind them, their freshness deteriorates much quicker than a whole-bean coffee. With that, the chances of your coffee becoming stale quicker are high.

But for coffee pods, we suggest that you consume them within a week or two. How about coffee capsules with your Nespresso or Dolce Gusto at home? This article is for you if you look forward to having a Latte or Cappuccino. We’ll share information on their shelf life in this article, so you correctly store and make them last longer.

Shelf Life

Coffee is perishable, but it is not as quick to degrade as milk or cheese. Coffee pods deteriorate in freshness far more quickly than whole bean coffee because they are ground and sit in contact with the pod's materials. 

The shelf life of coffee pods depends on the manufacturer but will last up to a year. After this time, the flavour will begin to deteriorate. Some pod models have a long shelf life, varying from 18 months to two years.

When you buy a container of coffee pods, the best before date is already stamped on the packaging. This date is essential because the quality of flavour and aroma diminishes afterwards. You can still drink fewer fresh pods, but the taste will not be as vibrant.

To prevent this, coffee pods must be protected from direct sunlight, heat and humidity through airtight storage.

The best way to tell if your coffee pods are rancid is by smelling them. You can also take a sniff of the coffee grounds in the filter of your coffee machine or the coffee filter itself. 

Another way to detect a coffee pod's freshness is by looking at the colour. If it's turning a funny brownish colour, it's probably time to throw it out.  

Another test is to grind the coffee pod and brew coffee with it. If it smells funny, the coffee pod is not of good quality anymore.

Storage

Ideally, you want to store your coffee pods in an airtight container away from moisture, heat, and air. When exposed to these elements, the quality of your coffee is altered, and its flavours and lifespan are affected. 

This can happen even if the pods are in separate containers from the grounds. The manufacturer has found a way to keep the coffee fresh for as long as possible. Their solution is one of several ways to store pods to have a long shelf life and retain the essence of their flavour and smell.

When grinding your coffee, resist the urge to place it in the fridge or freezer. Again, this will cause it to lose flavour. Instead, put them in a cool dark place where they will not be affected by extremes of hot or cold temperatures.

If you choose to freeze them, allow them to thaw completely before grinding them and brewing with them. Although manufacturers may suggest storing your pods out of their original packaging in an airtight container, this is where things can get confusing. 

Some of these containers can add oxygen into your pod storage area if they lack an oxygen barrier on their lids, so be sure that you're using a container that will keep your pods sealed and fresh!

Enjoy the Pod Life

Coffee pods are incredibly affordable and convenient! Making delicious coffee at home is easy with the best coffee capsules, but you must store them properly and finish them prior to the best before date. This way, you'll always have a fantastic coffee experience every time!

To get started on the pod life, check out Pod Life Coffee right now! We make fully biodegradable and compostable plant-based Nespresso coffee pods in Australia. Join our Coffee Club to earn rewards and discounts!