Apple juice is good for its qualities but does apple juice need to be refrigerated after opened? Apple juice, unlike other fruit juices, is a very acidic beverage and naturally contains bacteria that are not harmful to humans. However, if you’re concerned about the quality of the apple juice, it’s best to refrigerate it.
To minimize bacteria growth in your apple juice after opening let it sit for at least two hours before serving or storing the bottle in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Is Apple Juice Spoil?
Yes. Apple juice spoils easily because it’s very sweet and contains a lot of sugar – these are the perfect ingredients for growing dangerous bacteria. Once you’ve opened a bottle of apple juice, keep it refrigerated and only use the amount you plan to drink within 24 hours.
Most types of juice have a shelf life of no longer than 30 days after they’re opened, so if you don’t drink it within that time frame, throw the rest out.
How Can You Understand That Apple Juice Has Gone Bad?
There are two indicators that your apple juice has spoiled and is no longer safe to drink:
Color change. At room temperature, apple juice turns from clear to yellowish. If you can’t open it within 24 hours, throw it out.
Fermentation smell. The smell of fresh apple juice is light and fruity, but when the juice turns sour, it will take on a vinegar-like odor as well as a sharp odor not unlike ammonia or bleach – both of which are dangerous to your health.
Does Apple Juice Spoil If Not Refrigerated?
No. If you leave apple juice unrefrigerated, it won’t spoil as quickly. The juice will remain fresh for up to one month after opening as long as it’s in a tightly capped bottle and stored in a cool, dry place.
How To Save Apple Juice After Opened?
Pour the leftover apple juice into another container with a tight-fitting lid, cap the container tightly, and store it in your refrigerator. You can use the juice within 24 hours of chilling it – any longer and you’ll have to throw it out.
Is Apple Juice Safe To Keep At Room Temperature?
Yes, if it’s been stored properly – but only for 24 hours. If you leave apple juice at room temperature for longer, it will no longer be refrigerated and can become the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
How Long Should Apple Juice Be Out?
Apple cider should be kept refrigerated and used within three to five days. You can keep apple cider at room temperature for about twenty-four hours after opening, just like apple juice.
How Long Does Apple Juice Last?
Apple juice’s shelf life depends on how quickly you drink it after opening it. It has a shelf life similar to other juices – one month if unopened, and 24 hours if opened.
Does Apple Juice Need To Be Refrigerated After Opened?
Yes, but only for up to 24 hours. After that, if you do not drink it all or refrigerate it, the apple juice will no longer be safe to drink. Drink all of the juice within a day or two after opening it and throw out any excess.
What About Apple Cider?
Apple cider is similar to apple juice in that both are made from apples, but they have very different contents. Apple cider is usually unsweetened and contains more of the pectin and acids that help keep apples crisp and firm than are found in apple juice.
Conclusion
The answer to this question depends on what type of apple juice you are talking about. Unopened bottles need to be refrigerated after opening for up to one month, but opened bottles can remain at room temperature for approximately 24 hours.
