Learn how long your coffee stays fresh in the fridge and the best ways to store it for optimal taste.
Overview: How Long Does Coffee Last in the Fridge?
Preserving your coffee in the fridge can extend its freshness, but the duration varies based on a few factors such as the type of coffee and added ingredients. Generally, black coffee remains at its best quality for about a week when refrigerated. This approach inhibits the growth of molds and preserves the flavors longer compared to leaving your brew at room temperature.
When considering different coffee types, cold brew has a more enduring shelf life, typically staying fresh for up to two weeks due to its higher concentration and lower acidity. For those adding dairy or plant-based milk, the window is considerably shorter, about 2-3 days, keeping in line with the milk’s own expiration date. On the other hand, unused coffee beans and grounds might be better off stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place rather than the fridge to maintain their aroma and taste.
Different Scenarios
Cold brew coffee lasts between 7 to 10 days when stored properly in your refrigerator. Since it is brewed with cold water, the oxidation process is slower, extending its shelf life.
Iced coffee, typically just brewed coffee that’s cooled and poured over ice, will stay fresh for about a day. After that, the flavor starts to deteriorate rapidly even if it’s kept refrigerated.
For coffee that contains milk, dairy or alternatives, consume within 48 hours. The perishable nature of milk products shortens the lifespan regardless of optimal refrigeration.
Coffee beans and grounds follow a different storage protocol. Beans last in the fridge for about 2 weeks, though freezing them may extend their freshness. Ground coffee, on the other hand, should ideally not be stored in the fridge due to moisture and varying temperatures that can affect taste and freshness.
Remember, the key to extended freshness lies in airtight containers away from direct light and extreme temperatures.
Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew coffee, known for its smooth and mellow flavor, stays fresh longer than its hot-brewed counterparts. Typically, if stored properly in an airtight container, it can retain its quality for up to two weeks in the fridge. To maximize freshness, keep it away from strong-smelling food items to prevent flavor contamination. It’s important to note, once the seal is broken or if it’s transferred to a different container, the longevity might decrease slightly. Regular checks for any off smells or unusual flavors can help you determine if the coffee is no longer at its best.
Iced Coffee
If you’ve brewed a pot of iced coffee and you’re hoping to save it for later, placing it in the fridge is a smart move. However, the shelf life is somewhat shorter compared to cold brew. Typically, iced coffee will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 2 days. After this period, the flavor starts to change, becoming more bitter and less enjoyable.
To optimize freshness, store the coffee in an airtight container. This prevents absorption of other odors from the fridge and also reduces the exposure to air, which can degrade the flavor more rapidly.
Remember, if your iced coffee includes dairy or sweeteners, it’s best to consume it within 12 hours to avoid any spoilage or bacterial growth that could upset your stomach.
Coffee With Milk
When dairy or plant-based milk is added to coffee, the shelf life decreases. Typically, coffee with milk kept in the fridge will remain fresh for about 2 days. After that, bacteria start to develop due to the proteins and sugars present in the milk, which can lead to spoilage.
- To extend its freshness:
- Store it in airtight containers.
- Keep it at a consistent, cold temperature.
Always give it a sniff test before drinking. If it smells off or unusual, it’s safest to discard it to avoid the risk of consuming spoiled beverages.