What is the average shelf life for refrigerated beer that has not been pasteurized?

The average shelf life for refrigerated beer that has not been pasteurized is typically around 45 to 60 days. This is largely due to the presence of yeast and other microorganisms that can continue to undergo fermentation and spoilage processes, affecting the flavor and quality of the beer over time.

Refrigeration slows down these processes but does not completely stop them, which is why the shelf life is shorter compared to pasteurized beer. Pasteurization kills off yeast and bacteria, extending the shelf life significantly. For unpasteurized beer, proper storage conditions, like maintaining a consistent cold temperature, are critical to preserving its quality for the duration mentioned. This understanding of microbial activity and temperature influence is essential in brewing and serving fresh beer.

While options suggesting shorter or longer shelf lives are included, they do not align with the industry standard for average unrefrigerated, unpasteurized beer, further reinforcing the accuracy of the chosen shelf life range.