The Hidden Dangers of Mold in Coffee
I just learned that there is mold in coffee that we consume every day. Not all brands have mold, but when I learned this I had to look into this and learn more about it. As you can imagine, mold is not good for us. It can cause respiratory issues and even cause death. So does that mean we are slowly killing ourselves with every cup of coffee we drink? I will address that here, because understanding how mold develops in coffee, its potential effects on health, and ways to avoid it can help you enjoy your cup with confidence.
How Mold In Coffee Develops
Mold can make its way into coffee beans primarily through the growing, processing, and storage stages. Coffee is grown in tropical climates, which are often humid—conditions that favor mold growth. If beans are not dried thoroughly after harvesting or are stored in damp conditions, mold can develop. Additionally, improper handling during transportation and storage can exacerbate the problem.
The primary health concern associated with mold in coffee is mycotoxins, particularly ochratoxin A, produced by certain types of mold. These toxins can be harmful if ingested in significant quantities. While occasional consumption of moldy coffee is unlikely to cause serious health issues for most people, mycotoxins can lead to allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and other health concerns in sensitive individuals.
From an aesthetic point of view, moldy beans can also affect the flavor of the coffee, leading to off-tastes or undesirable flavors. But, high-quality coffee producers often take steps to prevent and mitigate mold issues to ensure a better tasting product. Here’s how you can make sure you’re drinking a good cup of coffee.
How to Avoid Mold in Coffee
- Purchase from Reputable Brands: Buy well-known coffee brands with stringent quality control measures. Specialty and organic coffees often adhere to higher standards, reducing the risk of mold contamination.
- Check for Certifications: Look for certifications such as organic or specialty grades that indicate thorough testing and quality control.
- Proper Storage: Store your coffee beans in a dry, cool place. Avoid areas with high humidity, as this can encourage mold growth. Using airtight containers can also help preserve the freshness of your beans.
By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of mold in your coffee and enjoy your daily brew without worry.
How Common Is Mold in Coffee?
Of course you hope your coffee is mold free, but the sad truth is that 45% of commercially available coffee beans tested contained Ochratoxin A. Unfortunately in this study done by National Library of Medicine, it does not specify what “commercial” coffee companies it tested. In another study done by the Journal of Agricultural and food Chemistry, up to 55% of green coffee beans showed the presence of Aflatoxins.
It’s also proven that coffee roasting does help reduce the toxins, but still nearly a third of roasted coffees contained that bad mycotoxin called Ochratoxin A. (Source)
At the end of the day, it’s important to know what we are putting into our bodies. It’s important to check with individual brands or roasters about their practices. Some of the following coffee brands say that they are free from mold.
Coffees That Are Free From Mold
Here are a few that say that are mold-free:
5 Great Coffee Beans For Your At-Home Espresso Machine
I saved up my money and finally bought an at-home espresso machine, so let’s talk about the best beans!
When I was looking to invest in a fancy espresso machine to make a perfect latte at home, my sister-in-law, Kacey, suggested the Breville Touch. She has the same one at her house and she makes her own drinks every day. I also did my due diligence and went to Crate and Barrel and Williams Sonoma and spoke to the employees in the “coffee section.” Everyone was so helpful. Many of them also suggested a Breville. So guess what? I bought a Breville Espresso machine!
I almost pulled the trigger on the Breville Touch Impress, but then I looked at the price tag. There was no way I could justify spending $1,499.00 on a “coffee maker.” But the machine right below the Touch Impress was the Breville touch. The price listed for that was $999.00. I bought it through Rakuten, and they offered a $100 cash-back rebate if I bought the machine through QVC. So, I only spent $899.00 on this machine.
I finally caved and bought an espresso machine. After many recommendations by people, I got the Breville Touch. Read my blog to find the best coffee beans to make a great espresso!
Even as I write that amount down I cringe, I’m not going to lie. In so many ways I can’t believe I spent almost $1000 on a machine that makes coffees. Like, WHO AM I?
How Do You Choose Beans For Your Espresso Machine?
Selecting high-quality coffee beans is crucial for brewing a great espresso. One suggestion is to shop at a local coffee shop that offers organic beans. While you’re there, look for beans with a fresh roast date, as freshness significantly impacts flavor.
Consider the origin of the beans as well. Single-origin coffees often showcase unique flavors. Pay attention to the roast level—espresso generally benefits from a medium to medium-dark roast that enhances its rich and bold characteristics. Assess the bean’s appearance; high-quality beans are evenly roasted, with no oil on the surface.
Aroma is another key factor; choose beans with a strong, enticing fragrance. (That’s my favorite part is smelling the beans). Experiment with different beans to find the flavor profile that suits your preferences, keeping in mind the balance of acidity, sweetness, and body for a perfect espresso experience. I prefer a very dark bean for my fancy drinks.
Lastly, did you know that the only difference between coffee beans and espresso beans is how fine the beans are grounded? For espresso drinks you want your beans as fine as possible. Honestly, I didn’t know that until I bought my espresso maker. I’m learning all sorts of new things!
Here Are My Favorite Coffee Beans
