Apple cider vinegar is quite a versatile food product and loads your body with the goodness of vitamins and minerals. Well, you might not be able to use the whole bottle in one go and must be wondering how long does apple cider vinegar last? This blog post will help you to clear all your doubts.

Apple cider vinegar truly stands the test of time. It can last up to 2 years or indefinitely if kept in a sealed or unopened bottle. But once the seal is broken, the apple cider vinegar is good for one year.
When exposed to oxygen, you must observe some visible changes, such as a cloudy appearance and darker color. Thus, you must keep it in the last part of the cupboard in the dark and dry areas.
Here is everything you need to know about the shelf life of apple cider vinegar, so whenever you use it next time, you don’t have to doubt whether it is good to use or not! Let’s move forward.
How Long Does Apple Cider Vinegar Last?

If the bottle of apple cider vinegar is unopened or sealed, it can last up to 2 years. There is a high chance of it lasting for an indefinite period. But once the seal is broken, the apple cider vinegar is good for one year.
You don’t have to worry about its expiry date, as it can last for quite a long time. Moreover, you don’t have to place it in the refrigerator as it does not help in expanding its shelf life.
You can extend its shelf life by keeping it away from direct sunlight. Instead, you must store it in dark and dry places.
How To Tell If Apple Cider Vinegar Goes Bad?
Well, you might be surprised to know that apple cider vinegar never goes bad. Yes! You read it right. We can say that, technically, it never expires. A sealed bottle of apple cider vinegar can stay in use forever.
Although when its bottle gets opened and exposed to oxygen, there are some visible physical changes that you might have noticed.
With the passage of time, it might get a cloudier appearance and produce more sediments, particularly if it is unfiltered vinegar.
This appearance is caused due to its exposure to oxygen, but it doesn’t mean it gets spoiled.
How Can I Tell If Apple Cider Vinegar Is Changing With Time?

As I already mentioned, apple cider vinegar hardly goes bad. You might notice some changes in its appearance.
Although it might get acidic over the course of time. Let’s know when it changes with time and become more acidic in nature.
1. Really Cloudy
Wondering about the extremely cloudy appearance of apple cider vinegar?
It is just the glob of yeast and the growth of the bacteria. Don’t worry; you can consume it, which might benefit your gut health.
2. Super Acidic
If you feel that apple cider vinegar feels more acidic than usual, consider passing it for the salads and stir-frying.
3. Discoloration
If it looks darker than its usual color, it is super fermented. Thus, checking its taste before using it in soups is advisable.
How To Store Apple Cider Vinegar?

Well, let me tell you that you don’t have to go out of the box when it comes to storing apple cider vinegar. You just have to follow these below-mentioned steps to keep it from getting spoiled.
1. Dark and dry Areas
It is better to store apple cider vinegar in dark and dry places. Otherwise, its taste might change when exposed to heat and high temperature.
Thus, storing them at the back of the cupboard is best. You don’t need to freeze it; you can keep it outside but in dark and dry areas.
2. Away From Direct Sunlight
Exposure to direct sunlight can alter the taste of apple cider vinegar. High temperatures affect the original taste of the vinegar.
3. Properly Sealed
It is advisable to store apple cider vinegar in a properly sealed container. It will reduce its contact with oxygen. Thus, it helps to extend its shelf life and original taste.
4. Away From Oxygen
You might have noticed the cloudier appearance of the apple cider vinegar. This is the result of its contact with oxygen, and it might alter its taste. Thus, make sure you keep it away from exposure to oxygen.
Tips To Keep In Mind While Storing Apple Cider Vinegar
Now that you know the different ways to store apple cider vinegar, let’s zone in and learn some of the important tips. So whenever you are buying it, don’t forget about these tips.
- Store it in dark and dry areas.
- Make sure you properly seal the bottle of apple cider vinegar.
- Keep it away from direct sunlight.
- Do not place it in high temperatures.
- Place it away from the reach of oxygen.
Conclusion
Thus, it is safe to say that apple cider vinegar can rarely expire. But if stored properly, you can keep it safe from being spoiled.
I hope all your doubts related to how long apple cider vinegar last are cleared now. So, now you don’t have to think twice about its expiry before buying it. See you next time and till then, take care!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it important to store apple cider vinegar in the fridge?
No, it is not important to store apple cider vinegar in the fridge as it does not contribute to extending its shelf life.
How to store apple cider vinegar?
You can store apple cider vinegar in dark and dry areas, away from direct sunlight, in properly sealed bottles, and away from oxygen.
How can I tell if apple cider vinegar is changing with time?
The cloudy appearance, darker color, and over-acidic taste are the signs that show that apple cider vinegar is changing with time.
How long does apple cider vinegar last?
Well, if the bottle of apple cider vinegar is unopened or sealed, it can last up to 2 years. It can also last for an indefinite period. But once the seal is broken, the apple cider vinegar is good to use for one year.