Is Mould in Coffee Something to Worry About? Here’s the Truth Behind the Headlines
If you’ve seen recent headlines claiming that coffee beans are being sprayed or that mould is a hidden issue in your morning brew, you’re not alone. We’ve had several customers reach out with questions, and we completely understand why - no one wants to imagine something unpleasant in their coffee.
At Silver Oak Coffee we want to put your mind at ease and explain exactly how we ensure our speciality coffee is clean, safe, and mould-free.
What’s Actually Going On?
Recent articles have suggested that a large percentage of coffee beans may contain mould or mycotoxins. These stories can sound alarming, but the truth is much more straightforward.
The coffee industry has strict quality standards in place to prevent this from happening, particularly when it comes to speciality-grade coffee, which is the only kind we source and roast.
Coffee Imports Are Strictly Controlled
Every coffee shipment entering the UK must have a phytosanitary certificate (or “phyto certificate”), confirming it’s been inspected and cleared of any fungus, mould, or bacterial contamination.
The UK government prohibits the import of coffee containing any mould or harmful bacteria, meaning the beans that reach our shores have already been checked and approved.
In addition, the Speciality Coffee Association (SCA) sets strict standards for green coffee storage and moisture. Mould can only grow if:
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Moisture content is above 12%, and
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Water activity is above 0.70.
Our trusted importer, Mercanta, monitors these factors at every stage - from farm purchase and shipment to arrival in the UK. These checks make sure that all speciality coffees meet both government and industry safety requirements.
Why You Can Trust Our Coffee
We take quality and safety seriously. Here’s what happens before your coffee ever reaches your cup:
- Certified Safe Imports: All our coffees arrive with the required phytosanitary certificates and pass strict inspections.
- Speciality Coffee Only: We only roast high-grade beans that already meet SCA standards for moisture and quality.
- Continuous Monitoring: Our importer and roasting team check moisture levels and water activity throughout storage and transport.
- Careful Storage: Beans are kept in clean and dry conditions to prevent humidity or mould growth.
- Small-Batch Roasting: We roast in small lots, meaning beans don’t sit around for months - they’re always fresh.
This combination of controls ensures your coffee is safe, clean, and high quality.
Understanding the Real Risk Factors
Mould in coffee doesn’t come from “spraying” beans or special treatments. It happens only when beans are improperly dried or stored in damp conditions for too long.
In speciality coffee production, moisture and storage conditions are tightly managed. Producers, exporters, and importers all monitor these factors so that mould cannot develop.
The roasting process itself also reaches high temperatures, effectively neutralising any residual microbial presence. So when you buy from a trusted roaster like us, there’s really no need to worry.
How We Keep Your Coffee Safe at Silver Oak Coffee
From the moment we choose our green beans to the point they reach your cup, every step is designed to maintain quality and freshness.
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We partner only with reputable farms and importers with a proven record of safe, ethical coffee production.
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We store beans in cool, dry, humidity-controlled spaces.
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We roast regularly in small batches, ensuring quick turnover and maximum freshness.
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We package our coffee in airtight, resealable bags, preserving aroma and preventing moisture exposure.
When you enjoy a cup from us, you’re drinking coffee that’s been responsibly sourced, carefully handled, and roasted to perfection.
Keeping Your Coffee Fresh at Home
You can help your beans stay at their best by following a few simple steps:
- Store beans in an airtight container in a cool, dry cupboard (not the fridge).
- Avoid humidity and heat, especially near kettles or ovens.
- Use your beans within 4–6 weeks of opening for optimal flavour.
- Grind just before brewing for the freshest taste and aroma.
In Summary
We completely understand how concerning those mould-related articles might sound. But rest assured - the coffee you buy from Silver Oak Coffee is:
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Inspected and certified safe before entering the UK,
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Sourced from trusted speciality suppliers,
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Monitored for moisture and quality throughout, and
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Roasted fresh in Ely by people who truly care about your coffee.
So you can enjoy every sip with confidence - no mould, no mystery treatments, just great-tasting, responsibly sourced coffee.
