How to read DDDYY date codes
Five-digit Julian date — day of year (1–365) followed by 2-digit year. 10226 means day 102 of 2026 (April 12, 2026). Common in older brewing systems.
Sufferfest Beer's code is a Pack date — the date the beer was packaged. Drink within a window after this date based on style.
Where to find the date code on Sufferfest Beer cans and bottles
On Sufferfest Beer packaging, the date code is typically printed on the bottom of cans or laser-etched on the bottle neck or shoulder. Some bottles also print it on the back label.
If the code looks smudged, partially worn, or printed in light ink, try angling the can under a bright light. Phone flashlights work well. The Freshie camera scanner can read most codes even when they're partially obscured.
How long is Sufferfest Beer beer fresh?
Sufferfest Beer produces a range of styles, each with its own drinking window:
- NEIPA / Hazy IPA: peak through 30 days, drinkable through 60 days from canning.
- West Coast IPA: peak through 45 days, drinkable through 90 days from canning.
- Double / Imperial IPA: peak through 30 days, drinkable through 75 days from canning.
- Pale Ale: peak through 60 days, drinkable through 120 days from canning.
These are guidelines, not laws — well-stored beer can outperform the curve, while heat-abused cans can stale much faster than expected. Storage temperature matters as much as age for hop-forward styles. Cold storage (under 40°F) extends every window meaningfully.
About Sufferfest Beer
Sierra Nevada family brand using 5-digit Julian format. Located in Chico, California.
Sufferfest Beer is tracked by Freshie as an independent American craft brewery per the Brewers Association definition (less than 25% non-craft ownership, under 6 million barrels per year).
Where to buy Sufferfest Beer
Loading retailers…
Some links above are affiliate links. Learn more.