Very Old Extract Powder - Still ok to use?

[Awfers]

Hi all!

I have some old Powdered Malt Extract that has a Use By date of 2003... Is there any real reason I couldn't use it now (2008)?

On visual inspection, it seems ok (no mould or anything). It's in the original packaging, never been opened..

Any ideas if this is still good to use?

Thanks,
Awfers

 

[DeathBrewer]

i'd give it a shot. if it's still sealed up and kept in a cool, dry place...it should be fine.

 

[SteveM]

I would not. Even sealed, it will oxidize over time. Would you eat bread from 2003, even if it had been sealed? The time investment in brewing up a batch far outweighs (in my opinion) the saving from using old malt.

 

[david_42]

Anyone who's been in the military knows 5 year-old food is considered fresh. I've brewed with 8 year old extract. Used some grain to freshen it.

 

[homebrewer_99]

Me too Dave...I used 6 yo DME that was fine...(it was sealed in a primary bucket and went into storage accidentally)...it was still as dry as the day it went in there.

 

[eriktlupus]

as long as it hasn't caked together ya should be fine

 

[Awfers]

Thanks all for your help...

I used it this morning, seemed to be absolutely fine, wasn't caked at all.

Will see what it gives as a final product


Cheers!
Awfers