How Long Is Beer Good for in the Fridge?

How Long Is Beer Good for in the Fridge?

As someone who enjoys the occasional brewski once the kids are tucked snugly into bed, I understand that we don’t always finish every bottle in one sitting. Life happens, and sometimes that six-pack you opened during the game last weekend gets pushed to the back of the fridge. But how do we know when it’s time to say goodbye to our fizzy friend?

Let’s pop the cap on this topic and pour out some knowledge that’s as crisp and refreshing as your favorite lager. Cheers to learning more about beer storage and safety!

Beer’s Shelf Life: The Basics

Beer, unlike wine, doesn’t usually get better with age. Most beers are best enjoyed fresh since the flavors can change over time. Light, temperature, and packaging all play a role in how long beer remains tasty and safe to drink.

Breweries often include a “best by” or “enjoy by” date on their packaging, which can give you an idea of how long the beer will be at its peak quality. Once you’ve opened a bottle or can, the clock starts ticking a bit faster.

clear glass beer mug with beer

Unopened Beer in the Fridge

Unopened beer is quite the trooper when it comes to shelf life. If stored properly in the fridge, it can last beyond the printed date, although it may not taste quite as the brewer intended. Here’s a rough breakdown:

  • Mass-produced lagers: These can last up to six months past the “best by” date if refrigerated.
  • Craft beers: Often more delicate, these may start to lose their optimal flavor after three to four months.
  • High-alcohol or barrel-aged beers: These can sometimes improve with age, but once refrigerated, it’s best to consume them within six months to a year.

Remember, these are general guidelines. Always check for off-smells or flavors before sipping.

Opened Beer in the Fridge

Once the seal is broken, beer begins to oxidize and go flat. An opened beer’s lifespan in the fridge isn’t very long due to the loss of carbonation and potential for bacterial growth. Ideally, you should finish an opened beer within one to two days. After that, it won’t taste as good, and while it’s not likely to make you sick, the experience won’t be quite as enjoyable.

Factors Affecting Beer’s Fridge Life

  • Temperature: Consistent, cool temperatures are best. Fluctuations can cause the beer to age prematurely.
  • Light: Beer hates light, especially UV rays, which can cause it to become “skunky”. Dark bottles and cans are better protected, but still, keep them away from light.
  • Air exposure: Once opened, beer starts to lose its carbonation and can become stale. If you can’t finish it, consider a beer saver cap to prolong freshness for a bit longer.

clear drinking glass with beer

Keeping Your Beer Happy

To ensure your beer stays at its best, follow these tips:

  • Store upright: This minimizes oxidation and contamination from the cap.
  • Keep it cold: Consistent refrigeration is key to extending its life.
  • Stay dark: Store beer away from light, preferably in a dark fridge or in a box.
  • Keep it sealed: If you can’t finish it, seal it with a stopper designed for beer.

Safety Considerations

Drinking beer that’s a little old won’t usually be hazardous to your health unless it’s visibly contaminated, smells bad, or tastes off. Still, it’s important to drink responsibly, not just in terms of freshness but also in terms of alcohol consumption, especially when you have little ones relying on you.

What the Experts Say

The CDC and FDA don’t typically comment on beer’s shelf life since it’s not a high-risk food product concerning foodborne illness. However, they do emphasize the importance of proper storage for all food and drink items to maintain quality and safety.

Key Takeaways

  • Unopened beer can last for several months past the “best by” date if refrigerated, with the exact time depending on the type of beer.
  • Opened beer should ideally be consumed within 1-2 days.
  • Store beer in a cool, dark place, and always refrigerate it.
  • Temperature consistency and protection from light are crucial for maintaining beer’s quality.
  • If you can’t finish an opened beer, use a beer saver cap to keep it fresher for a little longer.
  • While old beer isn’t usually dangerous, it may not be pleasant to drink.

Meet

The

Food Safety

Dad

Its me - Dale – a former restaurant manager turned food safety advocate. With years of experience ensuring the highest standards in busy London eateries, I'm here to bring those professional secrets into your home, making food safety simple and enjoyable.
The information on The Food Safety Dad is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.