How Long Does Beer Stay Good in a Growler?
The shelf life of beer in a growler significantly varies depending on factors like filling technique and storage, but generally, a properly filled growler will keep beer fresh for 1-3 days, while a professionally filled and sealed growler might last for up to a week.
Understanding the Growler Phenomenon
Growlers have become increasingly popular for beer enthusiasts, offering a way to enjoy draft beer from local breweries at home. However, understanding how to properly fill, store, and consume beer from a growler is crucial to preserving its intended flavor and quality. Without careful management, that delicious brew can quickly become a flat, oxidized disappointment. This article dives into the factors influencing beer freshness in a growler and provides best practices for maximizing its enjoyment.
The Enemy: Oxygen & Time
The primary culprits behind the degradation of beer in a growler are oxygen and time.
- Oxygen: Oxygen is a beer’s worst enemy. It reacts with various compounds in beer, leading to oxidation, which results in stale, cardboard-like flavors.
- Time: Even without oxygen, beer’s volatile compounds gradually degrade over time, leading to a loss of hop aroma and other desirable characteristics.
Filling Techniques: The Key to Freshness
The filling method dramatically impacts how long the beer remains fresh.
- Counter-Pressure Filling: This is the best method. It uses a system to purge the growler with CO2 before filling, minimizing oxygen exposure. Brewers often use this method.
- Bottom Filling: A tube reaches to the bottom of the growler, filling it from the bottom up, which helps reduce foaming and oxidation.
- Faucet Filling: This is the least desirable method. Filling directly from the tap creates more foaming and introduces more oxygen into the growler.
Proper Storage: A Must-Do
Proper storage is essential to preserving the beer’s quality.
- Keep it Cold: Store the filled growler in the refrigerator (ideally around 38-42°F) immediately after filling. Warmer temperatures accelerate the oxidation process.
- Store it Upright: Storing upright minimizes the surface area of the beer exposed to air.
- Avoid Light: Light can also degrade beer, so store it in a dark place.
Signs Your Growler Beer Has Gone Bad
Knowing the signs of spoiled beer will help you avoid a disappointing experience.
- Flatness: A lack of carbonation indicates the beer has likely lost its fizz.
- Off Flavors: Taste for stale, cardboard-like, or metallic flavors.
- Sourness: While some beers are intentionally sour, an unexpected sourness could indicate spoilage.
- Appearance: Cloudiness or sediment can be signs of spoilage, although some beer styles are naturally cloudy.
Comparing Growler Types
| Growler Type | Advantages | Disadvantages | Longevity (Typical) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glass Growler | Common, readily available, easy to clean | Allows light exposure, prone to breakage | 1-3 days |
| Stainless Steel Growler | Durable, blocks light, maintains temperature better | Can be more expensive, may impart a metallic taste if low-quality | 2-5 days |
| Pressurized Growler | Maintains carbonation, minimizes oxygen exposure | More expensive, requires CO2 cartridges | 5-7 days |
Common Growler Mistakes
Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your beer stays fresh.
- Not Cleaning Properly: Residue can harbor bacteria that spoil the beer.
- Delaying Refrigeration: Letting the growler sit at room temperature significantly shortens its lifespan.
- Opening and Closing: Opening the growler releases CO2 and introduces oxygen, accelerating spoilage. Try to finish the growler in one sitting once opened.
- Using a Dirty Growler: Ensuring the growler is properly cleaned between fillings is crucial for preventing off-flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Growler Freshness
How do I properly clean a growler?
Rinse the growler immediately after emptying it with warm water. Use a bottle brush and mild dish soap to scrub the inside. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Allow it to air dry upside down, ensuring it’s completely dry before storing it. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Can I refill a growler multiple times?
Yes, you can refill a growler multiple times, provided you thoroughly clean and sanitize it between each use. Check for any signs of damage, such as cracks or chips, before refilling.
Does the type of beer affect growler freshness?
Yes, certain types of beer hold up better in growlers than others. Hoppy beers, like IPAs, tend to lose their aroma and flavor more quickly. Higher alcohol beers and darker beers often retain their quality for a longer period.
What’s the difference between a growler and a howler?
A growler is typically a 64-ounce container, while a howler is a 32-ounce container. The smaller volume of a howler means you’re more likely to finish it sooner, potentially minimizing spoilage.
Can I pasteurize beer in a growler to extend its shelf life?
No, attempting to pasteurize beer in a growler at home is not recommended. It can be dangerous and ineffective, potentially leading to exploding growlers and inconsistent results.
What’s the best type of growler for maintaining carbonation?
Pressurized growlers are the best option for maintaining carbonation. These growlers use CO2 cartridges to keep the beer properly carbonated, significantly extending its shelf life.
How do I tell if a brewery is using proper filling techniques?
Ask the brewery about their filling process. Reputable breweries will use counter-pressure filling systems to minimize oxygen exposure. Look for signs of excessive foaming during the filling process, which can indicate improper filling.
Is it safe to drink beer from a growler that has been sitting out for a few hours?
While the beer may not be unsafe to drink, its quality will likely have degraded significantly. It will likely be flat and may have developed off-flavors. It’s always best to keep growler beer refrigerated.
Can I store a growler in the freezer?
Do not store a growler in the freezer. The beer will expand as it freezes, potentially causing the glass growler to shatter. Even if the container doesn’t break, freezing can damage the beer’s flavor and aroma.
How long can a professionally sealed growler last?
A professionally filled and properly sealed growler, particularly those using counter-pressure filling and CO2 purging, can last up to a week if stored correctly in the refrigerator.
What should I do with leftover beer in a growler?
If you have leftover beer in a growler that’s been open for a day or two, consider using it for cooking. Beer can add flavor to soups, stews, and marinades. Don’t force yourself to drink stale beer.
Are there any alternatives to growlers for enjoying draft beer at home?
Yes, alternatives include kegs, which require a kegerator system, and smaller cans or bottles that can be purchased in singles or packs. Services that deliver pre-filled mini kegs are also becoming increasingly popular.