How long does apple cider last?
Unpasteurised apple cider lasts a few days at room temperature and keeps its quality for up to two weeks in the fridge at 32–36°F (0–2°C), according to a University of Tennessee guide; frozen, it lasts a year or longer. For pasteurised cider, follow the date on the label. Once fresh cider starts to fizz or taste sour, it is fermenting.
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Key facts
- Room temperature. "Fresh apple cider will only last a very few days when stored at room temperature." [1]
- Fridge. "It will retain its quality up to two weeks when stored at 32 to 36 F", and cooling should start right after pressing. [1]
- Freezer. Frozen cider can be held "up to a year or longer with no deterioration in quality". [1]
- Untreated cider. In the US, juice and cider that has not been pasteurized or otherwise treated must carry a warning label, unless sold by the glass. [2]
How can you tell if apple cider has gone off?
Fresh cider contains natural yeasts, so it starts to ferment if kept too long or too warm. Signs include fizz, a swollen bottle, a sour or alcoholic smell, and a yeasty taste. What happens next is covered in can apple cider ferment itself. The glossary entry for fermentation explains the process.
Who should be careful with fresh cider?
FDA says untreated juice and cider "should be kept under refrigeration", and that children, older adults, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems "risk serious illnesses or even death from drinking untreated juices". [2] If you are in one of these groups, choose pasteurized or otherwise treated cider, or ask a doctor.
How can you make apple cider last longer?
- Keep it cold. Refrigerate at 32–36°F (0–2°C) straight away. [1]
- Freeze it. Leave about 10% headspace in the container; see can you freeze cider. [1]
- Can it. Heated and processed in a boiling-water canner, juice can be stored in jars; see can you can apple cider.
For alcoholic cider, see can cider go bad; for the difference between fresh and hard cider, see what sweet cider is.
Related answers: can cider go bad · can apple cider ferment itself
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We don't give health advice. For questions about your health, talk to a doctor or pharmacist.
Questions
How long does apple cider last after opening?
Treat opened fresh cider like any fresh juice: keep it cold and use it within the quality window of up to two weeks from pressing, sooner if it was already a few days old. [1]
How long does homemade apple cider last?
The same as bought fresh cider: a few days at room temperature, up to two weeks in the fridge, and a year or longer frozen. [1] Homemade hard cider keeps much longer once fermented and bottled; see can cider go bad.
Sources
- Home Apple Cider Production (SP307-O) — University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service
- What You Need to Know About Juice Safety — FDA