Does Almond Milk Go Bad? – The ultimate guide
Almond milk has gained popularity as a non-dairy alternative to traditional milk. It is readily available in most grocery stores and is known for its delicious taste and long shelf life. If you find yourself with leftover almond milk or a large case of it, you may be wondering if almond milk can go bad. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the factors that contribute to almond milk spoilage and provide useful tips for proper storage to extend its shelf life.
Shelf Stable vs. Refrigerated Almond Milk
Not all almond milk is packaged in shelf-stable aseptic packaging, which means it must always be refrigerated to prevent spoilage. Refrigerated almond milk also has a shorter shelf life than unopened, shelf-stable almond milk. To determine if your almond milk needs refrigeration, consider where it was stored in the grocery store. Shelf-stable almond milk is typically found in the aisles at room temperature, while refrigerated almond milk is stored in the cooler section.
Does almond milk need to be refrigerated?
Homemade almond milk should be refrigerated as soon as possible after making to prevent bacterial contamination. Store-bought almond milk can be a little more confusing. While all almond milk should be refrigerated once the container is opened, not all almond milk needs to be refrigerated immediately if it has been commercially sealed in a shelf-stable package.
Why is some almond milk not refrigerated?
Shelf-stable almond milk is packaged in aseptic containers designed to extend its shelf life at room temperature. These containers are lined with aluminum to protect the milk from light and oxygen, preventing spoilage without the need for refrigeration or preservatives. The aluminum is separated from the milk by FDA-approved, food-grade polyethylene plastic, which prevents metal leaching and ensures a tight seal. The filling and sealing process takes place in a sterile environment to prevent microorganisms from entering the package.
However, once the seal on shelf-stable almond milk is broken and the package is opened, refrigeration is required to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Deciding how to store almond milk
If you have made your own almond milk or purchased refrigerated almond milk, it should always be stored in the refrigerator. Avoid placing it in the refrigerator door, as this area is exposed to the most temperature changes and outside air. Instead, store it on a shelf in the back of the refrigerator.
Unopened, shelf-stable almond milk can be stored in any cool, dry place away from direct light. It is best to keep it in a relatively temperature-controlled environment, as heat fluctuations can gradually affect its quality over time.
How long does almond milk keep?
The shelf life of almond milk depends on the type of almond milk and how it is stored. Shelf-stable almond milk and refrigerated almond milk have different shelf lives. All commercially produced almond milk has a “use by” or “best by” date stamped on the package, which provides an approximation of its freshness.
An opened container of shelf-stable almond milk will stay fresh for one week to 10 days when refrigerated. Refrigerated almond milk can last from a week to as little as 2-3 days, depending on the packaging and preservatives used.
Homemade almond milk without preservatives should be used within 3-4 days of making it.
Almond milk shelf life chart
Below is a chart summarizing the shelf life of different types of almond milk:
- Pantry (unopened, shelf stable): 2-4 weeks past the “use by” date before quality deteriorates
- Pantry (Opened Shelf-Stable): Unsafe
- Refrigerator (Refrigerated): Unsafe
- Refrigerator (Open Shelf-Stable): 1 week-10 days
- Refrigerator (Homemade): 3-4 days
How to tell if almond milk is bad
There are several signs that almond milk has gone bad. If the container expands, becomes bloated, or looks swollen, it is a clear sign of spoilage. However, this sign is only visible in cardboard or plastic containers.
Another indicator is an acidic or sour odor. Fresh almond milk should have a slightly nutty and sweet aroma, but as it begins to turn, it will have a fermented odor.
Lumps or a curdled appearance in almond milk may indicate spoilage, but it is not always a definitive sign. If shaking the almond milk removes the lumps and there is no foul odor, it may have just separated and is still safe to consume.
To be sure, you can do a taste test. If the milk tastes excessively sour, it is best to throw it away.
Will almond milk spoil if unopened?
When stored properly, unopened almond milk can be kept past the “use by” or “best by” date. Shelf-stable almond milk, in particular, can be kept for several weeks or even months past the indicated date without significant deterioration. However, it is important to inspect the packaging for any signs of damage, such as leaks or bulges, before consumption.
Tips for extending the shelf life of almond milk
To maximize the freshness and shelf life of almond milk, follow these tips:
- Check the packaging: Before purchasing almond milk, make sure the container is intact and undamaged. Avoid purchasing products with dented or bulging containers, which may indicate spoilage.
- Store properly: Refrigerate almond milk immediately after opening the container. Keep it in the main body of the refrigerator, away from temperature fluctuations in the door. For unopened, shelf-stable almond milk, store in a cool, dry area away from direct light.
- Use clean utensils: When pouring almond milk, use clean utensils to prevent contaminants from entering the container.
- Avoid cross-contamination: Store almond milk away from strong smelling foods or substances that can transfer unwanted flavors. Close the container tightly after each use to minimize exposure to air and potential contaminants.
- Follow storage guidelines: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended storage guidelines. Different brands may have slightly different instructions, so check the package for specific recommendations.
- Monitor sensory changes: Check the appearance, smell, and taste of your almond milk regularly. If there are any noticeable changes, such as unpleasant odors or tastes, it is best to discard the milk.
- Consider freezing: If you have an excess of almond milk that you won’t use within its shelf life, consider freezing it in small portions. Freezing can extend shelf life, but be aware that the texture may change slightly after thawing.
By following these tips, you can help extend the shelf life of almond milk and ensure that it remains safe for consumption.
In summary
Almond milk can go bad if not stored properly, but shelf-stable options can last a long time if kept unopened. Refrigerated almond milk and homemade almond milk have a shorter shelf life and should be consumed within a few days. Always check for signs of spoilage, such as bulging containers or off-putting odors, before consuming almond milk. By storing almond milk properly and keeping it fresh, you can enjoy this dairy-free alternative for a long time.
FAQS
How long does almond milk keep?
The shelf life of almond milk varies depending on the type and storage conditions. Unopened shelf-stable almond milk will keep for 2-4 weeks past the “use by” date, while opened shelf-stable almond milk will stay fresh for approximately 1 week to 10 days when refrigerated. Homemade almond milk should be consumed within 3-4 days.
Can unopened almond milk go bad?
While unopened, shelf-stable almond milk can be consumed beyond the date on the package, it is important to inspect the package for any signs of damage or bulging before consumption. If the container appears compromised, it is best to throw it away.
How do I know if almond milk has gone bad?
There are several signs that almond milk has gone bad. These include a bloated or swollen container, a sour or fermented smell, lumps or a curdled appearance, and an overly acidic taste. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the almond milk.
Does Almond Milk need to be refrigerated?
Homemade almond milk should be refrigerated as soon as possible after preparation to prevent bacterial contamination. Store-bought almond milk, especially shelf-stable varieties, can be stored at room temperature until the container is opened. Once opened, it should be refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze almond milk?
Yes, almond milk can be frozen to extend its shelf life. However, it is important to note that the texture may change slightly after thawing. It is recommended to freeze almond milk in small portions and thaw in the refrigerator before use.
How should I store almond milk to maximize its shelf life?
Opened almond milk should always be refrigerated immediately and stored in the back of the refrigerator, away from temperature fluctuations. Unopened shelf-stable almond milk should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct light. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s storage guidelines for optimal shelf life.