Kit Storage?

[StrangeBrew]

During the warmer months is there any benefit in storing unbrewed kits in the fridge or will this have a detrimental effect on the quality of the extract?

[sparky Paul]

Bagged ingredients can be put in the fridge or freezer, but don't put cans in the fridge.

The latex which seals the seam contracts under low temperatures and can allow the seal to become porous. The low temperature of the contents then causes contraction and an internal vacuum, pulling in anything living on the outside of the can.

The best place for cans is just somewhere cool, but not cold.

[StrangeBrew]

Bagged ingredients can be put in the fridge or freezer, but don't put cans in the fridge.

The latex which seals the seam contracts under low temperatures and can allow the seal to become porous. The low temperature of the contents then causes contraction and an internal vacuum, pulling in anything living on the outside of the can.

The best place for cans is just somewhere cool, but not cold.

Oops! I should of asked sooner.

I've had a 2 tin kit in the fridge for about two/three weeks now...is it beyond hope?

[sparky Paul]

It should be fine, but I would keep it somewhere else.

The main problem occurs when the outside of the can is contaminated with bacteria or moulds, or visibly dirty. The seam will probably still be intact, but even if it has opened up a little, the risk of spoilage will be very low if the cans are clean.

[StrangeBrew]

Thanks for the advice Paul.

Along similar lines...
does this happen to all cans, food, beer etc? Only I love chilled baked beans, corned beef always goes in the fridge and (I know I shouldn't be drinking beer from a can) warm beer is a no no.

[sparky Paul]

does this happen to all cans, food, beer etc? Only I love chilled baked beans, corned beef always goes in the fridge and (I know I shouldn't be drinking beer from a can) warm beer is a no no.

It only applies to food cans. It's fine if you are chilling prior to opening, but long term storage in the fridge is not recommended. Also, you should never leave any food in open cans.

Cans which are carbonated have positive pressure inside, and so nothing can get in. Low temperature storage is also anticipated, so the seam compound is modified accordingly.