Yes, coffee beans can go off, but probably not in the way you think.
Unlike fresh food, coffee won't suddenly spoil after a certain date. Instead, it gradually becomes stale over time.
The biggest enemies of coffee are air, moisture, heat and light. When coffee is exposed to these elements, it slowly loses the flavours and aromas that make it enjoyable to drink.
Stale coffee often tastes flat, dull or lifeless. You may notice that it no longer has the sweetness, balance or character it had when the bag was first opened.
This is why roast date is often more important than best before date. A coffee roasted recently will usually provide a much better experience than one that has been sitting on a shelf for months.
The good news is that keeping coffee fresh is relatively simple. Store it in a cool, dry place and keep the bag sealed between uses.
If you're unsure whether your coffee is still at its best, trust your taste buds. Coffee should smell inviting and brew into a cup full of flavour.
Want to keep your coffee tasting great for longer? Read our guide on how to store coffee beans properly.