Shelf Life Tips
- How long does unopened seltzer last? The precise answer to the question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - store unopened cans or bottles of seltzer in a cool, dark area.
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To extend the shelf life of unopened seltzer, keep unopened seltzer away from direct sources of heat or light.
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How long does unopened seltzer last at room temperature? Properly stored, unopened seltzer will generally stay at best quality for about 9 months after the date on the package when stored at room temperature, although it will usually remain safe to drink after that.
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How long does unopened seltzer last in the refrigerator? Properly stored, unopened seltzer will generally stay at best quality for about 9 months after the date on the package when stored in the fridge, although it will usually remain safe to drink after that.
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Is unopened seltzer safe to drink after the "expiration" date on the can or bottle? Yes, provided it is properly stored and the can or bottle is undamaged - commercially packaged unopened seltzer 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 unopened seltzer will remain at peak quality.
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Storage times shown are for best quality only - after that, the unopened seltzer's color or flavor may change, but in most cases, it will still be safe to consume if it has been stored properly and the can or bottle is not damaged.
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Discard all seltzer from cans that are leaking, rusting, bulging or severely dented.
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How to tell if unopened seltzer is bad? If unopened seltzer develop an off odor, flavor or appearance, it should be discarded for quality purposes.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here