There is nothing wrong with getting your coffee beans in a grocery store, but here are some reasons why roastery coffee is a much better choice.
I envy those who are living near coffee roasteries. In addition to that immaculate aroma that will captivate you from a mile away, buying your coffee beans straight from the roaster brings you some advantages.
While you can still order coffee beans online straight from the roastery, I recommend buying directly from their shop. Here are some of the reasons why roastery coffee is superior.
1. It Is Fresher And Tastier Than Grocery Coffee Beans
That is not a dig at grocery stores, but it is undeniable that beans from the roasters are fresher.
As you may know, coffee beans lose their flavor, aroma, and caffeine content once they are roasted as they begin to oxidize and release carbon dioxide. Though they will not expire, they will become stale, and it will be no different than drinking slightly coffee-flavored dirt water.
That is why most coffee roasters roast-to-order to preserve this freshness, allowing for a richer and more robust coffee flavor. I promise you; these taste more vibrant compared to the store-bought ones. Experts recommend letting the fresh roast rest for at least 7 to 10 days to maximize the flavor profile of your coffee.
Another advantage is you can ask your roaster for recommendations on which type of roast suits your taste, and they will gladly accommodate you. Check out our in-depth article on why coffee beans are roasted to give you an idea of how this process gives you the perfect cup of Joe!
2. Roastery Coffee Is Healthier
Coffee is rich in antioxidants, the compounds that fend off free radicals that damage your cells which may result in cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and other illnesses.
The longer a coffee bean is exposed to air, the higher the level of free radicals becomes. To counteract this, our antioxidant friends still in the coffee bean fight them off. This results in a decrease in the efficacy and the amount of this compound we can potentially consume.
By purchasing fresh coffee straight from the roasters, we’re assured that we get the optimal level of nutrients our body can utilize. Personally, aside from the caffeine, the aroma from a freshly-roasted and freshly-brewed coffee is an effective upper to start my day too.
3. It Is Cleaner And More Sustainable
Some independent coffee roasters allow you to see how they package and store the coffee beans. Although grocery stores maintain a level of cleanliness in their warehouses, you can’t do an eye test. Since these small roasters depend on their product’s quality as a marketing tool, you can always expect proper maintenance.
Additionally, many coffee roasters purchase green coffee beans directly from farms, which significantly reduces the number of steps taken to transport the product compared to other coffee brands. This lowers the coffee’s carbon footprint as studies have shown how coffee is grown, transported, and consumed impacts carbon emissions.
4. You Can Learn New Things From Roasters
Roasters are very dedicated to their craft, giving them an abundance of coffee knowledge and roasting know-how. They are the perfect person to approach for information as they can discuss the roasting process, the flavor profiles of each roast, and may even impart coffee blends you can try to brew a unique concoction.
This is also perfect if you plan to roast your coffee beans at home. Something as simple as knowing the smell, the look, and the sound of your roasting can influence the taste of your java. This is a lesson that only roasters can provide.
Moreover, roasters are ideal partners if you’re considering venturing into the coffee business. They can supply you with quality roasted coffee beans. They also have many networks as they most likely know people of interest in the industry, from professional baristas to coffee importers to equipment suppliers.
5. You Can Socialize With Fellow Coffee Lovers
Socialization is most effective when there is coffee on the side. It is why coffee shops are always the go-to in meet-ups and such.
This can be applied when you go to your roasters as well. You encounter other coffeephiles where you can exchange new roasting, brewing, and blending ideas or acquire new perspectives on your beloved beverage. Who knows, you might be talking to your new best friend or an established coffeepreneur who can give you an opportunity of a lifetime.
