What can negatively impact the flavor of coffee beans?

Exposure to light and moisture can significantly degrade the flavor of coffee beans. When coffee beans are exposed to light, particularly sunlight, they can undergo chemical reactions that lead to the loss of flavor oils and aromas, resulting in stale and flat-tasting coffee. Moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which can spoil the beans and alter their flavor profile. Ideally, coffee beans should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place to preserve their freshness and flavor integrity.

In contrast, keeping the beans in an airtight container and storing them in a dry environment are practices that help maintain their quality. Grinding beans too coarsely can affect the extraction process during brewing, but it does not have the same detrimental effect on the raw beans themselves as light and moisture do.