Well, wandered into this forum and I have a question for the experienced baristas .. how long do you have with whole roasted beans to retain freshness? I did some reading & have seen a wide variation of opinions, so thought to pose the question(s) directly. Some sources say a week or two (seems counter-intuitive unless you roast your own)

The only "local" roaster I've found is 50 miles round trip to A-Squared, they sold 1/2 pound brown paper bags that had dates, both were ok, but ..

1) If the beans are in the standard foil pack with the valve, how long are they good for after opening? Not that I'd support Starbucks, but that type of pack? Seems like the clock wouldn't run until opened, but

2) If I get the local roast in the paper bag, roasted say two days ago, how long is that good for
?
3) Is there therapy available in case I develop CAD?

Thanks