Fresh Hops- longevity

[MmmBeer]

I got some fresh hops (1 lb of cascade for 4.99, not a bad deal) and they have been in my fridge, sealed, for like 3 weeks. I opened the bag yesterday to smell them as I am brewing on friday, they smell good and strong. Anyone know how long they stay fresh? will they keep their alpha acids and such over a month? I am planning to brew with them so if noone knows then I can give a follow-up post in 4-6 weeks.
Once more into the breach!

[ray m]

You will be fine, MMMbeer....If you're talking only a month or two, and keeping them refrigerated in the unopened bag they came in, you won't have a problem. Now, if these hops were pushing the 10 to 12 month mark, I personally would look for fresher hops. Since you've opened the bag already, but are going to use them Friday, you'll still be ok---just keep them refrigerated and put them in a sealed freezer bag---get all the air out before you seal it. I hope I am giving you good info----I know the honorable Brewmonkey will shed more accurate light on your question if I am incorrect here.:cool:

[brewmonkey]

Originally posted by MmmBeer
I got some fresh hops (1 lb of cascade for 4.99, not a bad deal) and they have been in my fridge, sealed, for like 3 weeks. I opened the bag yesterday to smell them as I am brewing on friday, they smell good and strong. Anyone know how long they stay fresh? will they keep their alpha acids and such over a month? I am planning to brew with them so if noone knows then I can give a follow-up post in 4-6 weeks.
Once more into the breach!

The storagability of cascade is POOR. This means you need to keep them away from air and if possible put them in your freezer. Putting them in the freezer will increase the shelf life and you should have no problem using them 6 months down the road.

As they start to oxidize they will lose some of their essential oils which come to us in the form of the alpha acids we so much love.....