When considering whether or not to drink coffee that has been sitting out, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is the length of time that the coffee has been sitting out. In general, the rule of thumb is that if the coffee has been out of the refrigerator more than an hour, it should be discarded. The longer coffee is exposed to room temperature, the more bacteria can grow on it, making it unsafe to consume.
The time factor is not the only thing to consider. In general, the fresher the coffee, the more antioxidants it retains. Antioxidants are important for our health, and are found in higher concentrations in freshly brewed coffee. As the coffee is exposed to room temperature and air, more of the antioxidants are lost, making it less beneficial to drink.
The type of coffee also matters. Instant coffee tends to contain less antioxidants than freshly brewed coffee and may not be as enjoyable to drink. Some instant coffee products may also contain preservatives and other additives, which may decrease their nutritional value further.
Coffee that has been sitting out for long periods of time can also be harmful. While some bacteria will break down due to exposure to air, others may become airborne particles, which can be dangerous to inhale. Therefore, it is best to avoid drinking coffee that has been sitting out for more than four hours.
The rules of thumb for drinking coffee that has been sitting out can be summed up as follows: if it has been exposed to room temperature for more than an hour, it should be discarded, and it should not be consumed after four hours. It is also important to note that freshly brewed coffee is better in terms of antioxidants, while instant coffee may contain preservatives and other additives.
Storage Guidelines
It is also important to know how to properly store coffee to maximize its benefits. Coffee should always be stored in an airtight container, such as a mason jar or a vacuum-sealed bag, to keep out any air or moisture. This will help to keep the coffee fresh and flavorful for longer periods of time.
If storing coffee for more than a few days, it should be refrigerated. While this may extend the shelf life of the coffee, it is important to note that chilling the coffee too far can actually destroy some of its beneficial compounds. Therefore, it is best to store coffee at room temperature rather than in the refrigerator for longer storage periods.
When brewing coffee, it should be consumed right away. Allowance should be made for friends who might arrive late to prevent them from drinking an over-brewed, stale cup of coffee. However, if the coffee has been sitting out longer than the recommended hour, it should be discarded.
When reheating coffee, care should be taken not to overcook it. Microwave ovens can heat coffee unevenly, leaving it lukewarm in some places and scalding in others. To avoid this, coffee should only be microwaved for 15 seconds at a time, stirring between intervals.
Health Effects
Regular consumption of coffee, whether freshly brewed or from the refrigerator, can have both positive and negative effects. Coffee contains many beneficial compounds including antioxidants, chlorogenic acids, and caffeine. These compounds have been linked to improved health, including a reduced risk of some chronic diseases.
However, too much caffeine can have negative health effects. Caffeine can lead to insomnia and nervousness. As well, drinking too much coffee can lead to heartburn, an increased risk of heart rhythm irregularities, and increased risk of stroke.
Therefore, while drinking coffee has many potential health benefits, it should be consumed in moderation. The recommended daily intake is no more than six to eight ounces of coffee a day.
Benefits of Cold Brewed Coffee
As an alternative to freshly brewed coffee or coffee that has been sitting out for long periods of time, cold-brewed coffee can provide many of the same beneficial compounds, with less volatility. As cold-brewed coffee is made without any heat, some of the more delicate compounds found in coffee are not destroyed by the brewing process.
Cold-brewed coffee also tends to be less acidic and smoother in taste, making it more enjoyable to drink. It can also be stored for longer periods of time without losing any of its flavor, making it convenient to prepare and store.
Overall, cold-brewed coffee can provide many of the same benefits as freshly brewed coffee, with much less effort. For those looking for convenience and enjoyment, cold-brewed coffee may be the best way to get the most out of their morning cup of coffee.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to drinking coffee that has been sitting out, the main thing to consider is the length of time it has been exposed to room temperature. Anything over an hour should generally be discarded, and no more than four hours should pass before the coffee is thrown out. As well, freshly brewed coffee is better in terms of antioxidants and should be consumed within an hour of brewing.
It is important to store coffee properly, in an airtight container, and to microwave it for short periods of time to avoid uneven heating. Finally, moderation and cold-brewed coffee can both help to maximize the health benefits and enjoyment found in coffee.
