Does Ocean Spray cranberry juice expire?

Cranberry juice is a popular beverage enjoyed around the world for its tart, refreshing flavor and potential health benefits. Ocean Spray is one of the most well-known brands of cranberry juice on the market. But like any food or beverage, cranberry juice does eventually expire. Knowing the shelf life and signs of expired cranberry juice can help you enjoy this drink while it’s still fresh and safe to consume.

How long does unopened Ocean Spray cranberry juice last?

An unopened bottle or carton of Ocean Spray cranberry juice generally stays fresh for the following timeframe if stored properly:

• Plastic bottle – Up to 9 months past the printed “best by” or “enjoy by” date on the package
• Aseptic carton – 6-9 months past the printed date
• Glass bottle – 12-18 months past the printed date

The shelf life depends on the type of packaging used. Plastic bottles and aseptic cardboard cartons allow for a shorter shelf life compared to glass bottles which have an air-tight seal. Refrigerating cranberry juice after opening can extend its shelf life for an additional 1-2 weeks.

How to tell if opened Ocean Spray cranberry juice is bad

Once opened, cranberry juice will eventually spoil due to oxidation and microbial growth. Here are some signs that opened Ocean Spray cranberry juice has gone bad:

• Sour, unpleasant smell
• Mold visible on the surface
• Fizzing or bubbling when you shake the bottle
• Change in color – paler than normal or darkening
• Cloudy appearance instead of transparent red
• Taste is off – bitter, sour, or unpleasant flavor

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the cranberry juice rather than risk drinking spoiled juice.

Why properly storing unopened juice matters

To get the most shelf life out of your bottles or cartons of Ocean Spray cranberry juice, be sure to store them properly:

• Keep unopened cranberry juice in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Avoid storing cranberry juice in hot places like near the stove or in the garage
• Refrigerating unopened cranberry juice can extend its shelf life
• Store bottles upright and tightly sealed
• Check the “best by” date and use within that timeframe

Proper storage prevents off-flavors from heat and keeps the natural flavor intact. Refrigeration can’t fully stop the slow aging process but does help by slowing down chemical changes.

What about freezing cranberry juice?

Freezing is another storage method to extend the shelf life of unopened cranberry juice. Here are some freezing tips:

• Check “best by” date first – only freeze unexpired juice
• Leave headspace at the top so the bottle won’t explode as liquid expands
• Use freezer bags or wrap bottles in plastic to prevent freezer burn
• Freeze immediately after purchasing for best flavor and texture
• Frozen juice lasts 6-12 months when stored at 0°F

Thaw frozen cranberry juice overnight in the fridge before consuming. The texture and taste can degrade after prolonged freezing so try to drink within 6-12 months.

Can expired cranberry juice make you sick?

Drinking cranberry juice after the expiration date can come with health risks. Here are some potential issues:

• Foodborne illness – Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, etc. bacteria growth
• Mold exposure – Especially if visible mold is present
• Toxicity – Degraded ascorbic acid (vitamin C) can form harmful compounds
• Gastrointestinal distress – Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pains

Severe illness is unlikely but possible in rare cases. To err on the side of caution, throw away expired cranberry juice.

How is cranberry juice expiration date determined?

The expiration date printed on Ocean Spray cranberry juice is known as a “best by” date. This date is determined through shelf life testing under controlled conditions.

Here’s how Ocean Spray comes up with “best by” dates:

1. Product samples are stored in conditions similar to grocery stores
2. At different time intervals, samples are tested for appearance, aroma, flavor, vitamin retention
3. The first sample that shows undesirable changes determines the shelf life
4. A date is chosen accounting for shipping and home storage time
5. The expiration date is printed on each bottle/carton

So while not a safety date, the “best by” date aims to provide consumers guidance for peak quality cranberry juice.

How to read product date codes

Reading expiration date formats on Ocean Spray cranberry juice can be confusing sometimes. Here’s what each type of date code means:

For the most unambiguous date, look for a date spelled out in full month and year format.

Increasing cranberry juice shelf life

Try these tips to help your bottles of Ocean Spray last as long as possible:

• Refrigerate after opening and finish within 7-10 days
• Check juice often for signs it’s gone bad
• Keep air exposure to a minimum by sealing lids tightly
• Pour into a clean airtight container if transferring from original packaging
• Avoid direct sunlight, heat sources, and temperature fluctuations
• Don’t return unused juice from glasses back into the original container

Proper refrigerated storage and careful handling reduces bacterial growth and oxidation that shortens cranberry juice’s shelf life.

Conclusion

Ocean Spray cranberry juice typically lasts for 6-18 months past its printed “best by” date depending on the type of packaging and storage conditions. Keeping juice sealed and refrigerated can prolong its shelf life once opened. However, cranberry juice can spoil over time, so it’s important to watch for changes in appearance, smell, and flavor. Discard any expired cranberry juice to avoid foodborne illness. Following proper storage methods and checking date codes can help ensure you safely enjoy Ocean Spray cranberry juice while it’s still fresh.