Coffee Bags: With Valve vs. Without Valve – What's the Difference?

Not all coffee bags require a valve. The presence of a one-way degassing valve depends on the type of coffee, its packaging method, and its intended shelf life.

Why are some coffee bags equipped with valves while others are not? Is a valve necessary?

A valve is not always mandatory. At M-star Packaging, with over a decade of experience in custom coffee bag manufacturing, we have designed various bag styles for our clients based on their specific needs.

Generally, valves are commonly used, especially for whole bean coffee. Freshly roasted whole beans must be packaged in bags with valves because they continuously release large amounts of CO₂. While the valve effectively prevents external oxygen from entering, it cannot remove oxygen already present inside the bag during packaging.

Which coffee bags require a valve, and which do not?

Mandatory for valves:

Freshly roasted whole bean coffee

Dark roast coffee (due to higher CO₂ release)

Usually valve-free:

Ground coffee: Valve usage is generally unnecessary here. After grinding, coffee rapidly releases gas and loses flavor quickly, making valves ineffective. Instead, nitrogen flushing is commonly used for preservation.

Instant coffee and single-serve packets

What products are typically packed in valve-free coffee bags?

Valve-free bags are suitable for:

Pre-ground coffee

Instant coffee

Small-format single-serve coffee packets

Ready-to-drink coffee products

Storage tips:

Even with a valve, coffee bags should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place. Avoid high temperatures and direct sunlight, as they can accelerate flavor degradation.