Shelf Life Tips
- How long does a package of opened instant coffee last? The precise answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions - to maximize the shelf life of opened instant coffee store in a cool, dry area and keep tightly closed.
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How long does opened instant coffee last at room temperature? Properly stored, an opened package of instant coffee will generally stay at best quality for about 12 to 18 months at room temperature.
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Storage time shown is for best quality only - after that, the coffee's texture, color or flavor may change, but in most cases, the opened instant coffee will still be safe to consume if it has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage (see below).
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Is opened instant coffee safe to use after the "expiration" date on the package? Yes, if properly stored - commercially packaged coffee will typically carry a "Best By," "Best if Used By," "Best Before", or "Best When Used By" date but this is not a safety date, it is the manufacturer's estimate of how long the coffee will remain at peak quality.
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How can you tell if instant coffee is bad or spoiled? Instant coffee typically loses flavor over time and develops a stale taste - if coffee develops an off odor, flavor or appearance or if mold appears, it should be discarded.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
