Expiration & Storage Tips
When does diet cola expire?
Most diet colas don't expire in the traditional sense, but they do have a 'best before' date printed on the packaging, typically two to four months from the purchase date. However, an unopened bottle or can of diet cola can be safely consumed even a year past this date, although it might lose some of its fizz and flavor. Once opened, a can of diet cola should ideally be consumed within a day to maintain freshness and carbonation, while a resealed plastic bottle can stay good in the fridge for up to five days. Freezing diet cola isn't recommended, as the expansion of the liquid might cause the can or bottle to burst.
How do you tell if diet cola is bad?
Stale diet cola is easy to spot. If it has lost its fizz or has a flat taste, it's most likely out of date. Also, if it has developed an off-putting smell or has visible mold or particles floating in it, it's best to safely dispose of the product.
Tips for storing diet cola to extend shelf life
• If unopened, store diet cola at room temperature in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature, like a pantry or cupboard.
• Once opened, reseal the diet cola tightly and store it in the fridge to keep it fizzy and fresh for longer.
• Avoid exposing diet cola cans or bottles to heat or sunlight to prevent any unwanted changes to the flavor.
• If you know you won’t finish a whole can or bottle in one go, consider portioning diet cola into a glass instead of drinking straight from the can. This will minimize its exposure to air, maintaining its carbonation better.