How long can LME be stored?

[wyzzyrdd]

I was just given a box full of Briess LME (18 3.3 lb containers). The oldest ones date back to 2012 and the newest ones date back to 2014. Are they any good? If yes, for how much longer?

[jjpeanasky]

My understanding is that so long as it has a seal and it's unbroken you should be good for a while. Moisture content is minimal, similar to honey, so you can use that as a basis.

I would think it would be stable flavor-wise. Shouldn't have much that will degrade.

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[wyzzyrdd]

Moisture content is minimal, similar to honey . . .

85% sugar by weight. So yeah, just like honey.

I've seen some homebrew forums where people say the LME darkens over time (as does honey) and that the flavor turns stale.

So the light LME is the youngest and the dark LME is the oldest. I am sure it is not spoiled. I am more concerned about the flavor profile.

[Matt F]

If you don't want to brew with it, could be useful to make starters.

[wyzzyrdd]

If you don't want to brew with it, could be useful to make starters.

great idea

[DrPaulsen]

LME oxidizes relatively quickly. Odds are the stuff you have will make beer with that classic "extract twang" off flavor. I second Matt's suggestion to make starters with it.