Which of the following is a sign of fresh coffee beans?

Fresh coffee beans are ideally those that have been recently roasted, as this indicates that they have not lost their essential oils and flavors due to prolonged storage or exposure to air. Freshness is key to a vibrant taste profile, and recently roasted beans retain the aroma and flavor characteristics that coffee enthusiasts value.

The visual and olfactory cues accompanying fresh beans are significant. When beans are recently roasted, they typically display a variety of colors and may have a slight sheen resulting from the oils that are released during the roasting process. However, for the best quality and flavor, they should be consumed soon after roasting.

In contrast, shiny and oily beans may suggest over-roasting or that they have been stored for too long, losing some of their freshness. Beans with a dull appearance often indicate aging or staleness, as freshness is usually associated with a more vibrant look. Similarly, beans that lack aroma are likely stale and no longer possess the aromatic compounds that contribute to their flavor profile. Fresh coffee beans should exude a strong, inviting aroma, signaling that they are still full of flavor potential.