Non-alcoholic beer usually comes with a brewed-on date on the bottom of the can, rather than an expiration date. The general consensus is that non-alcoholic beer can last anywhere between three months to six months after the brewed-on date. However, it’s important to note that this can vary depending on the brand and the storage conditions.
While non-alcoholic beer may not have the same alcohol content as traditional beer, it can still contain a small amount of alcohol. As a result, it’s important to consume non-alcoholic beer before it goes bad to avoid any potential risks. In this article, we will explore the topic of whether or not non-alcoholic beer can expire and what factors can impact its shelf life.
The Shelf Life of Non-Alcoholic Beer
Non-alcoholic beer is a popular alternative for those who want to enjoy the taste of beer without the alcohol content. However, like any other beverage, non-alcoholic beer has a shelf life. In this section, we will discuss the shelf life of non-alcoholic beer and factors that affect it.
Factors Affecting Non-Alcoholic Beer Shelf Life
The shelf life of non-alcoholic beer depends on several factors, including the ingredients used, the brewing process, and the packaging. Generally, non-alcoholic beer has a longer shelf life than other non-alcoholic products.
One of the critical factors that affect the shelf life of non-alcoholic beer is the presence of hops. Hops are added to beer during the brewing process to add flavor and aroma. However, hops also contain alpha acids that can oxidize over time, causing the beer to spoil.
Another factor that affects the shelf life of non-alcoholic beer is the packaging. Non-alcoholic beer is usually sold in cans or bottles. Cans are better at preserving the freshness of the beer as they prevent light and air from entering the container. On the other hand, bottles are more prone to oxidation as they allow light to penetrate the beer.
How to Store Non-Alcoholic Beer?
Proper storage is essential to extend the shelf life of non-alcoholic beer. Here are some tips to store non-alcoholic beer:
- Store non-alcoholic beer in a cool and dark place. Exposure to heat and light can cause the beer to spoil.
- Keep the beer away from strong odors as it can absorb the smell and affect the taste.
- Store the beer upright to prevent the yeast from settling at the bottom of the container.
How to Tell if Non-Alcoholic Beer Has Expired?
Non-alcoholic beer does not have an expiration date. Instead, it comes with a brewed-on date on the bottom of the can or bottle. However, non-alcoholic beer can go stale over time, affecting its taste and quality.
One way to tell if non-alcoholic beer has expired is by checking the appearance and smell. If the beer looks cloudy or has a strange odor, it may have gone bad. Another way to check is by tasting the beer. If it tastes sour or has an off flavor, it may have expired.
Overall, non-alcoholic beer has a longer shelf life than other non-alcoholic products. Proper storage and handling can extend the shelf life of non-alcoholic beer and ensure that it remains fresh and flavorful.
Is it Safe to Drink Expired Non-Alcoholic Beer?
Many people may wonder whether it is safe to drink expired non-alcoholic beer. While beer does not necessarily expire, it may lose its freshness and taste over time. This is the same case for non-alcoholic beer.
According to Hopsters Brew, drinking expired non-alcoholic beer will not harm you, but it may not taste as good as it should. The chemicals in the beer may have degraded, resulting in a strange taste and smell.
It is important to note that the freshness and quality of non-alcoholic beer may vary depending on how it was stored. If the beer was not stored properly, it may spoil faster and have a shorter shelf life.
Therefore, it is recommended to check the expiration date on the non-alcoholic beer label before consuming it. If the beer has passed its expiration date, it is best to discard it and purchase a fresh batch. This will ensure that you are getting the best taste and quality from your non-alcoholic beer.
Conclusion
Non-alcoholic beer is a great alternative for those who want to enjoy the taste of beer without the effects of alcohol. However, it is important to note that non-alcoholic beer does have a shorter shelf life compared to regular beer.
According to NA Beer Club, most physical and online stores that sell non-alcoholic beer will probably have their beer sitting on the shelf for more than a few months. Given the short shelf-life of NA beer, a few months can make a world of difference in the freshness and quality of the beer.
While beer does not actually expire, it can go stale. As Hopsters Brew notes, if you keep non-alcoholic beer cold, you can store cans or bottles for five to nine months at room temperature and two or three years when refrigerated. However, it is important to check for signs of staleness, such as changes in flavor or smell, before consuming.
Overall, non-alcoholic beer can be a great option for those who want to enjoy the taste of beer without the effects of alcohol. Just be sure to consume it within a reasonable time frame and store it properly to ensure the best quality and taste.
