The mere thought of drinking expired coffee would make any true coffee lover nervous. But can you actually drink expired instant coffee without risking your health? Before we answer this question, let’s first talk about what instant coffee is and how long it lasts.
What is Instant Coffee?
Instant coffee, or soluble coffee, is a type of coffee that is made from grinding specially roasted coffee beans into a fine powder which is then dissolved in hot water. According to an article in The Atlantic magazine, it was invented in 1881 when George Constant Washington, an English-American inventor, patented a method to produce the powdered form of coffee. By the 1940s, instant coffee was marketed as a convenient way to make coffee with greater ease.
Does Instant Coffee Go Bad?
The short answer is, yes. Just like other foods, instant coffee can go bad due to age and improper storage. When instant coffee is exposed to oxygen, heat, and moisture, it can become stale and even develop mold. The smell and taste of moldy instant coffee can be unappealing, and drinking it can be hazardous to your health.
Furthermore, according to Good Housekeeping, the flavor and potency of instant coffee start to decrease over time; for optimal flavor, it is recommended that the product be used within six to twelve months of the expiry date. Ultimately, the longer you keep the instant coffee, the less flavor and aroma—as well as nutrients—it will contain.
Can You Drink Expired Instant Coffee?
Yes, you can, technically. However, you should keep in mind that while expired instant coffee may not present any health risk, it can taste terrible due to the loss of flavor and aroma. The general rule of thumb is that the older the product, the worse its flavor. And, if the product was stored improperly, it could be contaminated with mold or other foreign substances that can be hazardous.
An article in How Stuff Works states that if the expired instant coffee is still vacuum-sealed, it is likely safe to drink. However, if there is evidence of a break in the seal, if it smells strange, or if there is visible mold, the product should be thrown out.
What are the Alternatives to Instant Coffee?
If you’re worried about the freshness and quality of expired instant coffee, you may consider other alternatives such as freshly brewed coffee. This is especially true if you’re a coffee connoisseur and expect superior taste and flavor. Here are some of the other coffee options you can explore:
- Ground coffee
- K-cups
- Cold brew coffee
- Espresso
Nutritional Benefits of Drinking Coffee
Coffee has become an essential part of many people’s daily routine. According to an article in Healthline, regular consumption of coffee can provide some health benefits. It can be a great source of antioxidants and can also improve your metabolic rate, helping you burn fat more quickly. In addition, coffee can help boost concentration and alertness and has been linked to a lower risk of various diseases, including Type-2 diabetes, liver disease, and Parkinson’s.
Caffeine Consumption and Safety
It’s important to be aware of your caffeine consumption and ensure that it does not exceed the recommended daily limit. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, healthy adults should consume no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine per day. High caffeine consumption can lead to a number of undesirable side effects, including insomnia, restlessness, irritability, jitteriness, headaches, and cardiac problems.
The Bottom Line
It is possible to drink expired instant coffee; however, it is not recommended as its flavor and potency may be significantly decreased. Furthermore, if the product was stored improperly, it could be contaminated with mold or other foreign substances that can be hazardous. Therefore, it’s best to err on the side of caution and opt for other types of coffee instead. For those who are regular coffee drinkers, the optimal choice is to opt for freshly brewed coffee to ensure the best flavor, freshness, and nutritional value.
