Instant coffee can be quick and convenient, but its shelf life is what makes it shine. It can last quite a long time, which is why it’s such a great thing to have on hand. However, it’s one of those food storage items that seems to be easily forgotten, so knowing how old it is can be a cause for concern.
If you have some instant coffee stored in an unlabeled container, you might be wondering if it’s still safe to use.
Instant coffee has a shelf life of up to 20 years, but for the best flavor, you’ll probably want to drink it within one to two years.
How long does instant coffee last in our lives? In this article, we’ll explore this type of coffee in more depth, from its origins and history to its impact on human health.
What Is Instant Coffee?
Instant coffee is a type of coffee that dissolves directly in water, making it very simple and easy to prepare. All you need to do is boil water with about a teaspoon of instant coffee and brew it instantly. Instant coffee has come a long way since its inception, when it was likened to mud in a cup.
Although it’s still not as sophisticated as freshly brewed coffee, there are many instant coffee brands with good flavor profiles. Instant coffee is also a popular ingredient in baking, so it’s versatile enough to have in your pantry.
Can Instant Coffee Go Bad?
Yes, instant coffee can go bad. The older it gets, the less flavor and freshness it will have. Although instant coffee has a much longer shelf life than regular ground coffee, it can still go bad and even get moldy if not stored properly. If it’s a single-use packet, it can last a long time as long as it remains sealed.
Before using instant coffee that’s been sitting in your cupboard for a while, check for signs of mold or mildew on the top and along the edges of the container.
How Long Does Instant Coffee Last?
Before learning about the instant coffee expiration and shelf life of instant coffee, it’s important to note that each brand is different. The best thing to do is find the expiry date and check if your instant coffee is still good. Most companies have expiration dates ranging from 6 months to 2 years, regardless of the fact that it can last much longer.
Technically, instant coffee has a ridiculously long shelf life of about 20 years, even after opening. However, most instant coffee brands set a time frame of 1 to 2 years. Instant coffee can last a very long time, but it needs to be stored in an airtight container to last that long.
If any moisture gets trapped inside, mold will start forming on the instant coffee grounds. It’s similar to honey in that honey doesn’t spoil, but moisture will cause it to ferment.
Read more: Do Roasted Coffee Beans Expire?
Does My Instant Coffee Have Something White on It? Is That Mold?
That’s right, any presence of fluffy white substance on your instant coffee is mold. This is most likely due to moisture being trapped in the container, leading to mold growth.
Don’t try to scrape off the mold because it may be growing in the middle or at the bottom of the container. Throw away the coffee and find an airtight container to store it in, or leave it in the container you bought it in.
Read more: Why did my instant coffee turn dark and hard?
How to Store Instant Coffee for the Longest Shelf Life:
- Store instant coffee in an airtight container. There are many containers that can be used, from glass jars to leftover plastic containers. As long as it prevents moisture from getting in and has a tight seal on top, it will work to preserve your instant coffee.
- Keep it away from direct sunlight and keep it at room temperature, such as in a pantry or cupboard. The freezer and refrigerator are too cold and can change the rich flavor as well as the freshness of the coffee if the container is not completely sealed.
- Occasionally check your instant coffee for any signs of mold, then seal it tightly and put it back in a cool, dry place. Checking for mold is important so you don’t accidentally ingest mold spores, which can make you sick.
Conclusion
Instant coffee has an amazingly long shelf life, regardless of the expiration date that usually comes with it. While instant coffee itself doesn’t necessarily go bad, it can lose flavor and strength over the years. The most important thing is proper storage, which will prevent moisture and mold from ruining your coffee.
Instant coffee is great to have on hand, especially when you’re running out of regular coffee. As long as it’s stored in an airtight container, your instant coffee can be used for many years without any problems. From the conclusion above, you now know how long instant coffee lasts.
At Hello 5 Coffee, we understand the importance of quality and freshness in every cup. Whether you’re enjoying our premium instant coffee or exploring our full range of coffee products, proper storage ensures you’ll always have a perfect brew ready when you need it.
