How Long Does Starbucks Bottled Iced Coffee Last in the Fridge?

crazy by Editorial Staff | Updated on April 1st, 2023

Are you a Starbucks bottled iced coffee fan but don’t want to buy it too often?


Or maybe you just purchased a few bottles and want to know how long they will last in the fridge?

starbucks bottled coffee

If so, this post is for you! We’ll provide all the information you need on how long Starbucks bottled iced coffee will keep in the refrigerator.

How long does Starbucks bottled iced coffee last?

When storing Starbucks bottled iced coffee, it is best to consume it within seven days of purchase. After that time, you may start to notice an off flavor or other signs that the coffee has gone bad. The coffee will last up to 8-10 days if stored properly in a refrigerator. 

However, if you open the bottle, it is best to drink the coffee within 12 hours as the flavor and freshness will diminish after that point. 

Best before date

The best-before date is a great way to ensure that the Starbucks iced coffee you’re consuming is safe and within its shelf life. This date is usually printed on the bottom of the bottle and indicates its expiration date.

However, it is important to remember that this does not necessarily mean that the coffee will still be at its best after this date. The taste of the coffee may start to decrease in quality and freshness after this time. Therefore, checking the best-before date before consuming any bottled iced coffee is important.

Signs of spoiled coffee

Taste and smell test

When it comes to assessing the freshness of Starbucks bottled iced coffee, the best way to tell is to do a taste and smell test. When you open the bottle, take a sip and see if it tastes as it should. The flavor should be smooth and sweet, not bitter or sour. 

You can also smell the coffee to see if it has any off odors. If it doesn’t smell or taste right, you should discard it. 

Look for changes in color and texture

When looking for signs of spoiled coffee, it’s important to look for changes in color and texture. Spoiled coffee will often have a darker color than when it was first purchased, and the texture may be thicker or more syrupy. 

If you notice any of these changes, it’s best to discard the coffee and purchase a new bottle.

Check the expiration date

Always check the expiration date of your Starbucks bottled iced coffee for the best taste. Most bottles should last around nine months if they’re unopened and stored in the refrigerator. Once opened, the best before date is 12 hours.

 When the bottle has been opened, it is possible to store it in the fridge for up to 12 hours. If not, discard the bottle, as it could become spoiled and unsafe to drink. If you’re unsure how long your Starbucks iced coffee has been open, it’s best to follow the aforementioned steps.

Factors that affect shelf life

Storage temperature

When storing Starbucks bottled iced coffee, the temperature is a key factor in keeping it fresh. Keeping it in the refrigerator can help extend its shelf life, but it should not be kept in the freezer. 

It should be stored in the refrigerator at temperatures between 35°F and 40°F to maximize its shelf life. If it’s stored at higher temperatures, the flavor and freshness of the coffee will diminish more quickly. Since an opened bottle of iced coffee has a shorter shelf life than an unopened bottle, store it away from direct sunlight and keep it refrigerated for the best results.

Closing the lid tightly

It is important to ensure that the lid of the Starbucks bottled iced coffee is tightly closed to help maintain its freshness. This method will also help protect the product from being contaminated with other food, drinks, or bacteria in the fridge. If you don’t close the lid, the liquid may evaporate and cause the product to spoil faster. 

Another good practice is to store opened bottles upright in the refrigerator so that the lid does not spill and allow contaminants to enter the bottle. 

Expiration date on packaging

It is important to check the expiration date on Starbucks bottled iced coffee packaging before consuming it. This date indicates when the beverage should be consumed by, as past that date, it will begin to lose its flavor and freshness. 

The expiration date listed on the bottle may vary slightly depending on the type of coffee, but it is usually between 7-10 days after opening. Therefore, it is best to consume the coffee before this date to get the freshest taste and aroma. 

Pasteurization process

Pasteurization is a process used by many companies, including Starbucks, to extend the shelf life of their products. This process involves heating the beverage to kill off bacteria or other microorganisms that can cause spoilage. 

While this process does not make the product last indefinitely, it can help increase the shelf life of Starbucks bottled iced coffee. For example, when stored in a cool, dry place, these drinks can last up to 8-10 days when they have been pasteurized. Also, pasteurization helps preserve the flavor and quality of the beverage so that you can enjoy it for longer.

Tips to extend shelf life

It’s important to take certain steps to extend the shelf life of Starbucks bottled iced coffee. 

  • Store it in the fridge and close the lid tightly. 
  • Keep the temperature consistent and avoid fluctuation. 
  • Check the expiration date on the packaging. 
  • Heating the coffee helps to reduce the risk of contamination and spoilage. 

Following these tips can ensure that your coffee stays fresh for longer periods.

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Editorial Staff

The editorial staff at Crazy Coffee Crave is a team of coffee enthusiasts & Baristas who enjoy the one thing we all think about as soon as we get up in the morning. Trusted by thousands of readers worldwide.