How Long Does Coffee Last in the Fridge [Best Conservation Guide 2024]
Find out how long does coffee last in the fridge and how to store it to maintain its freshness and flavour with this handy guide.
Table of Contents
Duration of Coffee in the Fridge
The following describes how long last coffee in the fridge, depending on the type of coffee:
Black coffee (without milk or sugar)
- 3 to 5 days: Black coffee can last 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator without losing too much flavour. However, you may notice a decrease in quality and flavour as time passes. For coffee lovers, this period may seem short, but it is important to remember that freshness is key to a good cup of coffee.
Coffee with milk or cream
- 1 to 2 days: Coffee containing milk, cream or other dairy products has a shorter shelf life due to the risk of these products spoiling. It is advisable to consume it within one to two days. Dairy products can grow bacteria quickly, which can affect both the safety and taste of the coffee.
Tips for Storing Coffee in the Fridge
- Use an airtight container: To prevent coffee from absorbing odours from other foods in the fridge, store it in an airtight container. Strong odours from foods such as onions, garlic or fish can transfer to coffee, ruining its taste.
- Chill before refrigerating: Let coffee cool to room temperature before putting it in the fridge. This helps prevent condensation that can dilute the coffee. Condensation can affect both the texture and taste of the coffee.
- Labelling: Label the container with the date you stored the coffee to keep track of its freshness. This is especially useful if you tend to prepare large quantities of coffee in advance.
- Avoid metal containers: While metal containers may seem like a good option, they can affect the taste of the coffee. It is better to opt for glass or BPA-free plastic containers.
How to Know if Coffee is Spoiled?
- Smell: If the coffee smells stale or sour, it is a sign that it is not in good condition. Smell is one of the first signs that something is wrong with your coffee.
- Flavour: Bitter or sour taste may indicate that the coffee is no longer fit for consumption. Coffee that has lost its freshness may have an unpleasant taste.
- Appearance: If there is a film on the surface of the coffee, especially in lattes, it is best to discard it. This film may be a sign of bacterial growth.
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Final Reflection
Coffee can last for a few days in the refrigerator, but its freshness and flavour degrade over time. For the best taste, it is ideal to consume brewed coffee as soon as possible.
If you need to store it, following proper storage practices can help prolong its shelf life.
Frequently Asked Questions from users:
Can I freeze coffee to make it last longer?
Yes, you can freeze coffee to extend its shelf life. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.
It can last up to two weeks in the freezer without losing much flavour. When defrosting, defrost slowly in the fridge to avoid sudden temperature changes that can affect the flavour.
What happens if I leave the coffee in the pot overnight?
Coffee left at room temperature overnight usually loses its freshness and may develop a bitter taste.
It is best refrigerated if you plan to consume it later.
Leaving coffee out can also lead to a build-up of oils that can become rancid.
Is it safe to reheat coffee in the microwave?
Yes, it is safe to reheat coffee in the microwave, although it may affect its taste. Reheat coffee in short intervals to prevent it from overheating.
Reheating it slowly helps to keep its flavour profile more balanced.
Is it better to store coffee in the fridge or at room temperature?
Prepared coffee should be stored in the refrigerator if it is not to be consumed immediately.
However, coffee beans or ground coffee should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dark place, as humidity in the fridge can affect their quality.
How can I improve the taste of refrigerated coffee?
To improve the taste of refrigerated coffee, consider adding a pinch of salt before reheating.
Salt can help neutralise any bitterness that has developed.
You can also add a drop of vanilla extract or a little fresh milk to revitalise the flavour.
