What is the recommended practice for using a grinder safely?

Using grounds immediately after grinding is the recommended practice for ensuring the best flavor and aroma in your coffee. Freshly ground coffee has a much richer taste because it retains more of the oils and volatile compounds that contribute to flavor. Once coffee is ground, it begins to oxidize and lose its freshness quickly, typically within minutes. Therefore, brewing with freshly ground coffee maximizes the quality of the beverage, allowing the nuanced flavors to be expressed fully.

In contrast, other practices may compromise the coffee's freshness and flavor. For instance, leaving beans in the hopper overnight can expose them to air and moisture, which may degrade their quality. Grinding all beans at once doesn't allow for flexibility in brewing and can lead to old grounds losing flavor before use. Storing beans in an open container increases their exposure to air, light, and moisture, further accelerating deterioration. Thus, the practice of using grounds immediately after grinding is the best for maintaining the integrity and quality of the coffee.