How Long Does Beer Last?

Ever stumbled upon that long-forgotten bottle of beer tucked behind the milk, silently pleading, ‘Am I a refreshing relic or just a flat disappointment now?’

Fear not, hop-hearted reader! Let’s froth up some facts and pour out the truth about how long that bubbly brew stays at its peak once it’s been cracked open.

Here’s to distinguishing between a crisp chug and a stale sigh!

How Long Does Beer Last?

As alcoholic beverages go, beer is extremely durable before opening and expires almost immediately once it is open.

Beer can last up to 9 months past the expiration date at room temperature. If kept in the refrigerator, it can last up to 3 to 4 years beyond the expiration date.

That’s true regardless of the material of the container (can, bottle, etc.)

How Long Does Beer Last If It Is Unopened?

Beer is much more durable than the expiration date suggests so long as you don’t open it.

At room temperature you can expect it to last 6-9 months past the expiration date.

If you keep it cool in the fridge, you can expect it to last three to four years past the expiration date and still be drinkable.

How Long Does Beer Last Once It Is Opened?

If you have ever drank a beer before, you know that it doesn’t age well once opened. The carbonation and quality of flavor drop rapidly after opening, so plan on opening only as much as you can drink in one sitting.

Here Is What You Can Do With That Aging Beer:

This mostly applies to better quality beers, but cooking food with older brew is a great way to use it up.

Recipes With Beer As An Ingredient

Beer-Braised Pork

Ingredients
• 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beer
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons dry mustard
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the pork cubes and season with salt and pepper.
Brown the pork cubes for about 5 minutes.

2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.

3. Pour in the beer, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, dry mustard, and sugar. Stir to combine.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the sauce is thickened.

5. Serve the Beer-Braised Pork with boiled potatoes for a tasty and comforting meal!

Beer Battered Fish

Ingredients
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 egg
• 1 cup beer
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 lb white fish fillet, such as cod or haddock

Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, beer, and cornstarch until a thick batter is formed.

3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Dip the fish fillets into the batter, coating both sides.

5. Fry the fish in the hot oil for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Serve the Beer Battered Fish with your favorite sides for a delicious and easy dinner!

Sources:

https://www.extension.iastate.edu/news/not-all-alcohol-gets-better-age