The Fizzy Truth: When Beer Expires, Is It Still Safe to Drink?
If you’re a beer lover, you know there’s nothing quite like cracking open a cold one after a long day. But what happens when you forget about that six-pack in the back of your fridge and find it weeks, or even months later? Is it still safe to drink?
How Long Does Beer Last?
First things first – how long does beer actually last? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. In general, most beers will last up to six months if they’re stored properly. However, this is just a rough estimate. The actual lifespan of your beer will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of beer, how it was stored, and the conditions it was exposed to.
What Happens When Beer Expires?
As beer ages, it goes through a process called oxidation. This process occurs when beer is exposed to oxygen, which can cause it to go stale and lose its flavor. Depending on the beer, this process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
When beer goes stale, it won’t necessarily make you sick, but it won’t taste as good as it should. You might notice that it’s lost its carbonation and gone flat, or that it tastes skunked or sour.
Is Expired Beer Safe to Drink?
The good news is that drinking expired beer probably won’t make you sick. Beer is a pretty inhospitable environment for bacteria, which means that it’s unlikely to harbor harmful pathogens. However, it’s still not a good idea to drink beer that’s gone bad. Aside from the unpleasant taste, drinking stale beer could cause digestive issues or headaches.
How Can You Tell if Beer Has Gone Bad?
If you’re not sure whether your beer is still good, there are a few signs you can look for. First, check the expiration date on the bottle or can. If it’s past its prime, it’s probably not worth drinking.
Next, take a look at the color and clarity of the beer. If it’s become cloudy or hazy, it’s a sign that something’s not right.
Finally, give it a sniff. If it smells sour or skunky, it’s probably gone bad. On the other hand, if it smells like wet cardboard, it’s just oxidized and not necessarily harmful.
How Can You Store Beer Properly?
To make your beer last as long as possible, it’s important to store it properly. Keep your beer in a cool, dark place, such as a cellar or fridge. Ideally, the temperature should be between 35-45 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s also a good idea to keep your beer away from light, which can cause it to break down and create off-flavors. This is why most beers are bottled or canned in dark glass or aluminum.
The Bottom Line
While drinking expired beer won’t make you sick, it’s best to avoid it if possible. Not only will it taste bad, but it could cause digestive issues or headaches. By storing your beer properly and checking the expiration date, you can ensure that every beer you crack open is fresh and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Get Sick from Drinking Expired Beer?
It’s unlikely that you’ll get sick from drinking expired beer, but it’s not a good idea to try. Expired beer can taste bad and cause digestive issues or headaches.
How Long Does Beer Last in the Fridge?
Most beers will last up to six months in the fridge if they’re stored properly. However, some beers may last longer or shorter depending on a variety of factors.
What Should You Do with Expired Beer?
If you have expired beer, the best thing to do is to dispose of it. Pour it down the drain or recycle the bottle or can. Avoid drinking it, as it won’t taste good and could cause digestive issues or headaches.