Quick summary: Yes, almond milk can go bad. Proper storage, checking expiration dates, and paying attention to signs of spoilage such as strange odor, taste, or texture are important to ensure its safety and freshness.
As its name suggests, this milk is made from almonds. It has very few links to the original cow’s product, except it is a similarly white creamy color and thick like natural milk. It is an excellent choice for all those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
It has low-calorie content and numerous nutritional benefits, so it is not surprising that it is becoming increasingly popular in the daily diet of many. But what are the durability characteristics of this product, and how is it best stored? We provide all the answers below.
How Long Almond Milk Lasts?
Similar to the cow product, here we have two versions of store bought almond milk you can find on sale. The duration depends, of course, on what type of product you choose. So let’s see right away what the duration recommendations are for both.
Refrigerated Almond Milk
This type of almond milk is found in refrigerators and must be there throughout its life. The packaging is different, and depending on the manufacturer, the duration may vary. Most often, for unopened almond milk the expiration date will be a few weeks. But in any case, after opening, you must consume milk within seven days.
Shelf-Stable Almond Milk
This is a more durable ultra pasteurized milk with long shelf life and will probably be good for several months on the shelf. Different producers have various instructions on use by date. Just like regular milk, shelf stable cartons can stand at room temperature until you open them. After that, it is necessary to store it in the refrigerator and consume it within a week.
Can Almond Milk Go Bad?
Of course. Like all other products, this one can spoil. It will usually be edible a few days or even weeks after the expiration date, depending on whether it is refrigerated or shelf-stable milk, provided it is not opened.
However, for both versions, the rule is that, after opening, you consume milk within seven or a maximum of ten days, again depending on the brand. But at any time, if you notice any strange phenomena, you should rather throw the product in the trash. Here are some indications that almond milk is spoiled.
Sign 1: The packaging is damaged
The moment you notice that the unopened carton is damaged, no rules and instructions on the label apply anymore. Whether the box is punctured somewhere, bloated, or has any damage that may indicate that the contents are no longer the same as in production, you better throw everything away.
Sign 2: Something smells or tastes funny
A good old nose and tongue are still the best detectors that something is wrong with food. If the milk smells strange or has a sour and unnatural taste, you can throw it away because it is undoubtedly spoiled. Always trust your senses, as this will save you from many illnesses.
Sign 3: The look is weird
Almond milk has a creamy texture about the same as regular cow’s milk. It is mild in color and silky. If you notice any stains, green or brown, on the milk, it is a sign that it is probably moldy. Also, if the texture is somehow slimy or has some bumps in it, do not consume the product because that is a bad almond milk.
Which is the Best Way to Store Almond Milk?
As already mentioned, keep shelf-steady products on the shelf until the moment of opening, then in the refrigerator. Products packaged for the refrigerator are kept in it at all times, both before and after opening. But if, like most, you buy a dozen products, here are tips on how to preserve the quality. Proper storage is the key to durability.
Tip 1: Keep products away from the sun
No food product likes sunny conditions. It is very wrong to store food in places where the sun reaches them. In addition to increasing their temperature and improving spoilage, it can also affect the packaging itself, which will swell from the sun. Thus the product will no longer be edible.
Tip 2: Keep the box tightly closed
Once you start using the product, always make sure to close the cap well after using it. This will prevent air from entering the package and slow down the decay process. We don’t have to mention that it’s not suitable for other foods to end up in your almond milk because it will undoubtedly disrupt stability.
Tip 3: Avoid damp places
The recommendation for most food kept at room temperature is to keep it a dark and cool place. Your pantry is probably the right choice. But speaking of which, make sure there is no moisture near the milk packaging. Sometimes pantries can be damp, and if the milk is in cardboard boxes, it will undoubtedly impair the durability.
FAQs
Is it OK to drink expired almond milk?
No, it’s not OK to drink expired almond milk, as it might have developed harmful bacteria or spoilage. It’s advisable to check the expiration date and discard almond milk that is past its expiration date or shows signs of off-putting odor, taste, or texture.
How do you know when almond milk goes bad?
You can tell almond milk has gone bad if it has an off smell, sour taste, curdled texture, or visible mold. Always check the expiration date and look for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
Can I drink my almond milk if I left it out overnight?
No, it’s not safe to drink almond milk that has been left out overnight, as it might have reached temperatures conducive to bacterial growth.
How long does almond milk last once opened?
Once opened, almond milk typically lasts about 7 to 10 days when refrigerated, but it’s important to check the expiration date on the package and use your judgment based on changes in smell, taste, or texture.
Does almond milk need to be refrigerated?
Yes, almond milk needs to be refrigerated to maintain its freshness and prevent bacterial growth. It should be stored in the refrigerator at all times, both before and after opening.
How long does homemade almond milk last?
Homemade almond milk typically lasts about 3 to 4 days when stored in the refrigerator. It lacks the preservatives found in commercial almond milk, so consuming it promptly is recommended for best quality.
How long can almond milk sit out?
Almond milk should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After that time, it’s safer to refrigerate it to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and maintain its quality.
Does almond milk taste bad when it’s spoiled?
Yes, when almond milk is spoiled, it can develop an off smell, sour taste, and a curdled or clumpy texture, making it unpleasant to consume.
Conclusion
Almond milk is standard in many kitchens, especially for those people who are lactose intolerant or have any milk allergies. It is also the choice of many vegans, but more and more people are starting to use it as a substitute for dairy milk.
It is mainly a durable product whose shelf life is several months. Once you start using it, the shelf life is seven to ten days maximum. But read the instructions on the product you bought because the duration may vary from brand to brand.
Tanja is great lover of healthy eating and lifestyle, she has been editing TV series about nutrition and health for years. She also engaged in food production in the family business, mainly focused on fruit processing without destroying vitamins and minerals. She believes that quality nutrition is one of the key ingredients of a happy and healthy life.
