However, beer can be neglected in this task. But does beer have an expiration date? And how do you know if it is still good for consumption?
Neil Witte, one of only 22 Master Cicerones in the world, and founder of Craft Quality Solutions and with over twenty years of experience in the brewing industry, shares his knowledge about beer durability.
The short answer is yes, but not in the way many imagine.
Unlike some foods that can develop dangerous pathogenic bacteria, beer does not present this risk due to its alcoholic content and the presence of hops, which have antimicrobial characteristics. Thus, the main effect of aging on beer is the loss of flavor. Especially in styles that are time sensitive, like IPAs (India Pale Ales).
What is the shelf life of beer?
There is a variation in durability depending on the type of beer. For example, high-alcohol, malty styles like Barleywines and Imperial Stouts are often brewed with the intention of aging for years. However, for most beers, especially those rich in hops, the ideal is to consume them as fresh as possible.
In any case, determining the age of a beer can be a challenge, as manufacturers are not required to indicate the packaging or expiration date. Some use “best before” dates or the date of manufacture. But this is not a rule. Witte believes that transparency regarding the age of the beer is an indicator of quality on the part of the manufacturer.
To maintain the quality of the beer, it is recommended to store it in a cold and dark place as possible. This is because light, especially ultraviolet, can react with hop compounds and create an aroma similar to skunk, a phenomenon known as “lightstruck”.
