Do hops go out of date?

[Kinleycat]

Planning my first dry hopping.
Bought some Styrian Goldings from LHBS, got them home and they have a best before of Jan 2013.
I know with herbs and spices they start to lose a lot of flavour when they are past their best before date.
Should I take them back or just use a bit more?

 

[calumscott]

They lose flavour and bittering ability over time.

Personally I would just use them and mention it to the LHBS next time and perhaps get some discount on your next purchase... :thumb:

 

[Yob]

if they were cold stored, fridge freezer that is, I'd be OK with it, but if they were just sitting on a shelf Id be a 'tad' more concerned.. some softwares like beersmith have the function of telling you what the AA% reduction is over time I believe.

Cheers

 

[Hawks]

if they were cold stored, fridge freezer that is, I'd be OK with it

I'd agree with this, as you are looking to dry hop with them the AA% drop is not such an issue for you, but the flavour does degrade and hops can go ' cheesy ' ( good storage will make them last longer but it still happens over time ) - give a small bit a good rub together in your hands and then smell them, that'll will let you know :thumb: