Have you ever wondered about the shelf life of that trusty bottle of apple cider vinegar (ACV) sitting in your pantry or fridge? Well, you’re not alone!
Let’s cut right to the chase: Apple cider vinegar rarely goes bad. Its high acidity and low pH make it inhospitable to most bacteria and pathogens. However, over time, its flavor and potency may diminish slightly, so it’s best to use it within about 5 years, but it doesn’t typically spoil or become unsafe to consume.
For more details on apple cider vinegar’s shelf life, how it ages, and the best storage practices, keep on reading!
Signs That Apple Cider Vinegar Has Gone BadChanges in smell. If your ACV has a much stronger or unusual smell, replace it.Changes in taste. If ACV becomes overly acidic or tastes too strong due to aging, consider getting a new bottle.Mold growth and discoloration. ACV’s acidity usually stops mold growth.
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Changes in smell. If your ACV has a much stronger or unusual smell, replace it.
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Changes in taste. If ACV becomes overly acidic or tastes too strong due to aging, consider getting a new bottle.
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Mold growth and discoloration. ACV’s acidity usually stops mold growth.
How long does apple cider vinegar last after opening?
Even after opening, apple cider vinegar can last for a very long time. I have used opened apple cider vinegar that’s been in my pantry for years with no issues.
However, its flavor and quality may gradually degrade over time due to oxygenation, so it’s best to use open apple cider vinegar within around 2 to 3 years.
Note that refrigeration does not extend the shelf life of apple cider vinegar. I know – this surprised me too! Instead, keep it in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cabinet, away from direct sunlight.
| Room temp (counter/pantry) | Fridge | |
| Unopened apple cider vinegar | Indefinite | Indefinite |
| Open apple cider vinegar | 2-3 years | 2-3 years |
If stored properly, apple cider vinegar can be safe to use for an extended period beyond any expiration or “best by” or “use by” date on the bottle. So, if you stumble upon a sealed bottle that’s been hiding in the depths of your pantry for months or even years, it’s probably still safe to use.
However, its flavor and potency may gradually diminish over time. If you prefer, you can use it for non-culinary purposes like cleaning and skincare (see this DIY apple cider vinegar toner!).
What is the shelf life of apple cider vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar can last forever, often well beyond its printed expiration date! The high acidity of the vinegar acts as a natural preservative, making it resistant to spoilage.
Expiration or best-before dates on apple cider vinegar are usually between 2 and 5 years from when the vinegar was produced.
Over time, the vinegar may undergo some changes in color or clarity, but these are usually harmless and do not affect its safety or usability.
Storing Homemade Vinegar
FAQ
How can you tell if homemade apple cider is bad?
Can homemade apple cider vinegar go bad?
How do you know if homemade apple cider vinegar is good?
How long is homemade cider vinegar good for?
How do you know if apple cider vinegar is bad?
If you have ever used apple cider vinegar, you may wonder how to tell if it’s terrible. The answer is simple there are a few signs that it’s terrible. The most common signs of bad quality include a change in the vinegar’s smell or viscosity. Bugs or lumps suggest contamination. If you notice any of these signs, you should throw away the vinegar.
What are the side effects of apple cider vinegar capsules?
Apple cider vinegar capsules are generally safe for healthy people to use. However, consuming apple cider vinegar can cause indigestion, throat irritation and low potassium.
Does apple cider vinegar go bad?
By nature, apple cider vinegar is self-preserving and should never go bad. However, over time, it will age and undergo some harmless physical changes. So, don’t worry about that ancient bottle you uncovered in the way back of your pantry. That murky look and extra sedimentation are normal, and your apple cider vinegar is still OK to use.
Does apple cider vinegar smell bad?
If your apple cider vinegar has started to spoil, it is likely to have a rather strong and unpleasant smell. You are unlikely to want to add this vinegar to your salad dressing or baked goods. Still, you could dilute it, mix it with a few drops of essential oils, and use it to clean your home. Which Apple Cider Vinegar is The Best?