Do you ever notice the vents on coffee bags? But not all coffee bags have vents! So why do some coffee bags have vents? What is the purpose of the vents? This article will explain in detail to help cafes better distinguish, classify, and store coffee.
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Purpose of a coffee bag with valve
Coffee bags with valves are one of types of coffee bags, a special type of bag designed for roasted coffee beans. They were invented by the Italian manufacturer Goglio in the 1960s. The vent on a coffee bag is usually a one-way valve. This valve allows CO2 to escape from the bag but does not allow outside air to enter. The valve is usually made of plastic or metal and has a gasket to ensure a tight seal.
Here is how do coffee bag valves work:
- When CO2 gas from the coffee escapes, the pressure inside the coffee bag increases higher than the pressure outside.
- At this time, the valve spring is compressed and the valve diaphragm opens, allowing CO2 gas to escape.
- When the pressure inside the coffee bag decreases, the valve spring pushes the valve cap back, closing the valve and preventing outside air from entering.
In other words, the valve on a coffee bag is a one-way valve that allows CO2 gas to escape from the bag but does not allow outside air to enter. This helps to keep coffee beans fresh for longer.
With such a one-way mechanism, the valve has the following two main functions:
- Releases CO2 gas: After roasting, coffee continues to release CO2 gas for a period of time. This CO2 gas is a by-product of the coffee roasting process. If there is no vent, the CO2 gas will build up inside the bag and cause the bag to swell. This can damage the coffee and cause it to lose its flavor. The vent helps to release the CO2 gas, preventing the bag from swelling and keeping the coffee fresh and delicious.
- Preserves coffee: The vent helps to prevent outside air from entering the bag. Outside air contains oxygen and moisture, two main factors that damage coffee. Oxygen can cause coffee to oxidize, leading to loss of flavor and spoilage. Moisture can cause coffee to mold and spoil. The vent helps protect coffee from oxygen and moisture, keeping it fresh and delicious for longer.
What types of coffee need to be stored in coffee bags with valves?
In fact, all types of roasted coffee need to be stored in bags with vents. However, vents are especially important for the following types of coffee.
Types of stand up coffee bags are being sold at Kimecopak
Types of coffee suitable for coffee bags with valves
- Whole roasted coffee beans: Whole roasted coffee beans release CO2 gas for several weeks after roasting. A coffee bag with a valve will allow this gas to escape while preventing oxygen from entering, keeping the beans fresh for longer.
- Ground coffee: Ground coffee releases CO2 gas at a faster rate than whole roasted coffee beans. A coffee bag with a valve will help to preserve the flavor and aroma of ground coffee for a longer period of time.
- Coffee blends: Coffee blends that contain roasted beans with different levels of roast will release CO2 gas at different rates. A coffee bag with a valve will help to ensure that all of the beans in the blend are kept fresh.
Coffee types are not suitable for coffee bags with valves
- Instant coffee: Instant coffee has already been through a process that removes most of the CO2 gas. As a result, instant coffee does not need to be stored in a coffee bag with a valve.
- Decaffeinated coffee: Decaffeinated coffee has been through a process that removes most of the caffeine. This process also removes some of the CO2 gas. As a result, decaffeinated coffee does not need to be stored in a coffee bag with a valve.
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Is coffee bag with valve better than coffee bag without valve?
Coffee bags with valves are the best option for preserving the flavor and quality of coffee. However, in addition to this type of bag, bags without valves are also a popular choice. Here is a comparison table between these two types of bags that coffee distributors and coffee shop owners can use as a reference:
|
Feature |
Coffee Bag with Valve |
Coffee Bag Without Valve |
|
CO2 Release |
Yes, valve allows CO2 to escape |
No, CO2 can build up inside the bag |
|
Freshness |
Better, prevents CO2 buildup which can affect taste |
Lower, CO2 buildup can impact taste |
|
Oxygen Protection |
Good, valve limits air entry |
Lower, air exposure can oxidize coffee |
|
Price |
Generally higher, due to added valve |
Generally lower, simpler design |
|
Aroma |
May release some aroma with CO2 |
May retain more aroma initially |
|
Suitability |
Ideal for long-term storage, freshly roasted coffee |
Suitable for short-term storage, pre-ground coffee |
Based on the table above, the choice of which type of coffee bag is better depends on your needs.
- If you want to store coffee for a long time and ensure the best flavor, you should use a coffee bag with a valve.
- If you want to save money and don't care about storing coffee for a long time, you can use a coffee bag without a valve.
Businesses need to carefully consider their priority goals in order to choose the most suitable type of bag. At Kimecopak, we offer wholesale coffee bags with and without valves to meet the needs of businesses. Our bags are designed in a variety of ways, and we also offer a custom logo service to meet the branding needs of businesses. For more detailed advice, please contact us via email at halo@kimecopak.ca or Kimecopak Facebook Fanpage.
In conclusion, the best way to choose a coffee bag is to consider your needs and budget. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Coffee bag with valve is the perfect choice in terms of flavor preservation, freshness and quality control. However, if your business has a short-term storage goal and is looking for a price solution, then coffee bag without valve is a suitable choice.
