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 Does Almond Milk Last?
Similar to the cow product, here we have two versions of what 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, 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 package with long shelf life and will probably be good for several months on the shelf. Different producers have various instructions on duration. Just like regular dairy milk, it can stand at room temperature until you open it. 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 packaging 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 texture about the same as regular 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.
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.
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?
After the expiration date, the product will probably be suitable for consumption for a few days, sometimes a couple of weeks. Rely on your senses to see if everything is okay.
How do you know when almond milk goes bad?
If the product has changed texture and become slimy or has dark spots and sour taste, it is certainly a sign of spoiled almond milk. If everything looks OK, but the smell and taste are weird, it is also a sign of perishability.
Can I drink my almond milk if I left it out overnight?
The best advice would be to throw away such a product to avoid food poisoning. Although it may seem okay, the bacteria have developed, so it is better not to take the risk.
How long does almond milk last once opened?
The general instruction is that open milk lasts between seven and ten days if kept correctly in the refrigerator.
Does almond milk need to be refrigerated?
Shelf-stable almond milk doesn’t need to be refrigerated unless you open it. The other types of almond milk will need to be stored in the fridge.
How long does homemade almond milk last?
If you store your fresh almond milk properly in the fridge, it should last for up to three days.
How long can almond milk sit out?
It’s best to drink your milk immediately after you pour it in the glass and store the opened bottle in the fridge.
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.
