Yes, you can safely drink old beer in a can.
According to VinePair, you can safely drink beer past its drink-by date. Beer does not expire in the same manner as products like milk, meaning old beer will not typically make you sick. Even in extreme cases, such as an 80-year-old can of PBR mentioned in the reference, the primary issue will be the taste. While the beer remains safe to consume, its flavor quality can significantly diminish or change over time.
Here's what you should know:
- Safety: Old beer in a can is generally safe to drink because harmful bacteria typically cannot thrive in beer's environment (due to alcohol, hops, and carbonation).
- Taste: The main consequence of drinking old beer is a degradation in flavor. The taste can become "taper off and turn tremendously," often developing off-flavors.
- Expiration Dates: Dates on beer cans are usually "best by" or "drink by" dates, indicating peak freshness and flavor, not safety limits.
In summary, while the quality and taste of old canned beer will likely suffer, it is safe to consume and will not make you sick.
