What happens if I drink expired beer?

Drinking expired beer won't likely make you sick, but it probably won't taste very good. Here's a breakdown:

What Happens to Beer Over Time?

* Flavor Changes: The main culprit is oxidation. Exposure to oxygen causes the beer's flavor to become stale, papery, or even metallic. Hop aroma fades, and the overall taste can become unpleasant.

* Appearance: The beer might appear cloudy or hazy, and the head may be less pronounced.

* Alcohol Content: The alcohol content will stay the same, but the flavor changes will make the beer less enjoyable.

Is Expired Beer Dangerous?

* No, not usually. Unless the beer was improperly stored or contaminated, it's unlikely to cause illness. However, some people might experience digestive upset if they drink a large amount of expired beer.

* Exceptions: If the beer was stored in extreme heat, or if the seal was broken and the beer became contaminated, it could make you sick.

The Verdict

While expired beer won't likely make you sick, it probably won't taste great. The best way to ensure a good experience is to drink beer within its best-by date.

Fun Fact: You can actually use expired beer for cooking, baking, or even gardening! The flavor changes won't be as noticeable in cooked dishes, and the yeast can be beneficial for plants.