How Long Does Caffeine Last: Everything You Need To Know!
Fast-acting stimulant caffeine affects your central nervous system. It can raise your heart rate and blood pressure, give you more energy, and uplift your mood in general.
The effects of caffeine may start to take effect immediately after consumption and will stay as long as the caffeine is still in your system.
But how long precisely does this last? The response is based on a number of variables.
Let’s get into it:
What Is The Shelf Life Of Coffee?
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, and its shelf life can vary greatly depending on various factors. There are many factors that can affect how fresh and quality a cup of coffee is, from what type of coffee it is to whether it’s ground or whole bean.
Knowing these factors can help you get the most out of your coffee for as long as possible.
When Unopened Or Sealed
If coffee is sealed in an airtight container and stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, it can last 6-9 months. However, the flavour and aroma of the coffee may start to deteriorate over time, especially if it’s ground. So, while the coffee may not go bad, it may not taste as good as it would when fresh.
When Opened
Once coffee is opened, it can lose its flavour and aroma relatively quickly. Ground coffee will lose its flavour and aroma more quickly than whole bean coffee and should ideally be used within a few weeks of being opened. Whole bean coffee can last a bit longer, up to a month or two, if stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
However, it’s important to note that the quality of the coffee will start to deteriorate over time, and the taste may become stale or bitter. Additionally, coffee can absorb odours from its surroundings, so storing it away from strong-smelling foods or spices is best.
To maximize the shelf life of your opened coffee, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It’s also a good idea only to grind the coffee you plan to use immediately before brewing to ensure maximum freshness.
After Brewing
Once the coffee is brewed, consuming it within a few hours is best for the best flavour and quality. As the coffee sits, it will lose its flavour and aroma and can even develop a bitter taste. Additionally, bacteria can start to grow in the coffee if left out for too long, which can make you sick if consumed.
It’s best only to make as much coffee as you need to avoid wasting any leftover coffee.
Overall, for the best flavour and quality, it’s recommended only to brew as much coffee as you plan to consume within a few hours and avoid leaving brewed coffee sitting out for an extended time.
Signs Of Bad Coffee
Here are some signs that your coffee may have gone bad:
- Foul or rancid odour: A strong, unpleasant odour is one of the most obvious signs that your coffee has gone bad.
- Mouldy appearance: If you notice any mould growing on your coffee, it’s a clear sign that it has gone bad and should be discarded immediately.
- Bitter taste: Coffee that has gone stale or bad will often taste bitter or sour. If your coffee tastes off or has an unusual flavour, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
- Oily or slimy appearance: If your coffee appears oily or slimy, it could be a sign that it has gone bad or has been contaminated.
- Stale aroma: If your coffee smells stale or has lost its aroma, it may have gone bad. Coffee stored improperly or for too long can lose its aroma and flavour over time.
In general, if you suspect that your coffee has gone bad or has an unusual odour, appearance, or taste, it’s best to discard it to avoid the risk of getting sick.
How Long Can You Keep Brewed Coffee In The Refrigerator?
Brewed coffee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, but it is best to consume it within 24-48 hours for the best flavour and quality. When coffee is refrigerated, it can develop a stale or sour taste over time, and it may also absorb odours from other foods in the refrigerator.
Hot Brewed Coffee
It’s not recommended to store hot brewed coffee directly in the refrigerator, as it can raise the temperature in the refrigerator and potentially cause other foods to spoil more quickly. Instead, it’s best to let the coffee cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container and placing it in the refrigerator.
Once the coffee has been properly stored in the refrigerator, it can be kept for up to 3-4 days. However, consuming it within 24-48 hours is best for the best flavour and quality. When coffee is refrigerated, it can develop a stale or sour taste over time, and it may also absorb odours from other foods in the refrigerator.
It’s also worth noting that reheating the coffee in the microwave or on the stovetop can further affect its flavour and quality, so it’s best to consume it cold or at room temperature.
Cold Brew
Cold-brewed coffee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or two, depending on how it was prepared and stored. Due to its lower acidity and smoother flavour profile, cold brew coffee can last longer than hot brewed coffee when stored properly.
To store cold brewed coffee, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. Consuming it within a week or two is ideal for the best flavour and quality. However, keep in mind that the longer the coffee is stored, the more its flavour and quality will degrade over time.
You can serve it cold or at room temperature when ready. If you prefer warm coffee, you can heat it gently using a microwave or stovetop, but be careful not to overheat it as this can affect its flavour and quality. It’s also worth noting that adding ice to the cold brew coffee can dilute its flavour, so it’s best to use coffee ice cubes instead.
Conclusion
Knowing how long coffee lasts can help you enjoy it at its best quality, minimize the risk of health issues, and reduce waste. It’s important to properly store coffee and pay attention to its expiration date or how long it’s been since it was brewed to ensure you get the best possible coffee experience.
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FAQs
How long does coffee keep you awake?
Coffee can last up to six hours in your body after drinking it.
Is it safe to drink coffee left out overnight?
At normal room temperature, black coffee can last up to 24 hours before you have to worry about spoiling. However, that doesn’t mean it won’t be stale. Just thirty minutes in, plain black coffee will start to lose its flavour.
Can I drink leftover Starbucks?
An open Starbucks iced coffee will taste best if finished within about half a day. However, if you haven’t opened a bottled drink yet, you can keep it in the refrigerator for as long as you like until it expires.
