Are you a fan of almond milk creamer in your coffee or tea? It’s a great alternative to dairy creamer for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
But how long can you leave it out before it goes bad? The answer may surprise you.
In this article, we’ll explore the shelf life of almond milk creamer and provide tips on how to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh for as long as possible.
So grab a cup of your favorite beverage and let’s dive in!
How Long Can Almond Milk Creamer Sit Out?
According to the USDA, almond milk creamer should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. This applies to both refrigerated and shelf-stable almond milk creamer after it has been opened. Temperatures between 40 and 140 °F are referred to as the “Danger Zone,” where bacteria can double quickly and make you sick.
If it’s extra hot in your house (over 90°F or 32°C), the rule is one hour. After merely one hour left in these hot temperatures, the almond milk creamer should be discarded. This applies if you leave a carton of perishable almond milk creamer in a hot car, for example.
It’s important to note that unopened shelf-stable almond milk creamer does not have to be stored in the fridge. Much like coconut milk, it’s okay to leave an unopened carton in a dark and cool area away from heat. The pantry or kitchen cabinet are both perfect candidates for the job.
However, once you’ve opened the carton, be sure to refrigerate it. Refrigerated almond milk creamer has to stay in the fridge even when unopened. So be sure to refrigerate it as soon as you bring it home from the grocery store.
It’s also smart to not keep them near the door, since that’s the warmest section of the fridge and the temperature fluctuates more often. Keep your almond milk creamer near the back of the fridge, as that’s the coldest and most stable area.
For homemade almond milk creamer, be sure to refrigerate at all times. Now, you may wonder if almond milk creamer is safe to freeze. There is some debate going on around this topic, but most people recommend against it. Once you defrost frozen almond milk creamer, its texture changes, and not for the better.
What Is Almond Milk Creamer?
Almond milk creamer is a non-dairy alternative to traditional creamer that is made from almonds. It’s perfect for people who are lactose intolerant or vegan. Almond milk creamer is typically available in various flavors, including vanilla, hazelnut, and caramel. It’s important to note that almond milk creamer is different from regular almond milk, as it’s specifically formulated to be used as a coffee creamer. Almond milk creamer is often used as a healthier alternative to traditional creamer, as it contains fewer calories and less fat. It’s also a great source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Overall, almond milk creamer is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional creamer that can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a non-dairy option.
The Shelf Life Of Almond Milk Creamer
The shelf life of almond milk creamer depends on whether it’s opened or unopened, and the type of almond milk creamer. Unopened shelf-stable almond milk creamer can last up to two weeks past its “best by” date, while refrigerated almond milk creamer can last up to a week after opening.
It’s important to note that once opened, almond milk creamer should be refrigerated at all times. Leaving it out at room temperature for more than two hours can cause bacteria to grow rapidly, leading to spoilage and potential health risks.
Homemade almond milk creamer has a shorter lifespan than store-bought varieties and should be consumed within three to four days of making it. It’s also not recommended to freeze almond milk creamer, as the texture can change once it’s defrosted.
To maximize the shelf life of almond milk creamer, it’s best to store it in the coldest and most stable area of the fridge, away from the door. Always check for signs of spoilage before using, such as an off odor, flavor, or appearance. When in doubt, it’s better to discard the almond milk creamer than risk getting sick.
Signs That Almond Milk Creamer Has Gone Bad
Almond milk creamer, much like regular almond milk, has a limited shelf life. Signs of almond milk creamer spoilage include bloated or leaky packaging, mold, unusual texture, and off smells or tastes. It’s important to ensure the creamer isn’t opened for more than 7 to 10 days, and that it’s not expired for longer than a week if it’s the refrigerated variety.
One of the most telltale signs of almond milk creamer going bad is the smell. Once the creamer is spoiled, it will lose its nutty and fresh smell. Take a good sniff at your creamer; does it smell sour? Does it smell pungent? Does it smell any different from how almond milk creamer should smell? If the answer is yes, it’s time to throw it away.
Another sign of almond milk creamer spoilage is a change in texture. Almond milk creamer should be smooth and creamy, but if you notice any lumps or curdling, it’s time to toss it out. Additionally, if you notice any discoloration or black spots in the creamer, this could be mold and it’s best to discard it immediately.
Remember that once opened, almond milk creamer should be kept refrigerated at all times. If left out at room temperature for more than two hours, it should be discarded. If you’re unsure whether your almond milk creamer has gone bad or not, take a small sip. If your almond milk creamer tastes sour or off in any way, pour it down the drain.
Tips For Storing Almond Milk Creamer
If you want your almond milk creamer to stay fresh for as long as possible, there are some tips you can follow:
1. Store it in a cool, dry place: Almond milk creamer does not need to be refrigerated until it’s opened. So, store it in a cool and dry place away from heat and direct sunlight.
2. Refrigerate after opening: Once you open the carton, be sure to refrigerate it immediately. Almond milk creamer should be kept in the fridge at all times once opened.
3. Keep it away from the door: The door of the fridge is the warmest area, so keep your almond milk creamer near the back of the fridge where it’s colder.
4. Check the expiration date: Always check the expiration date before purchasing almond milk creamer. Once opened, it should be consumed within one to two weeks.
5. Don’t freeze it: Freezing almond milk creamer can change its texture and flavor, so it’s best not to freeze it.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your almond milk creamer stays fresh and safe to use for as long as possible. Remember to always check for signs of spoilage, such as discoloration or a foul smell, before using it.
How To Properly Dispose Of Almond Milk Creamer
When it comes to disposing of almond milk creamer, it’s important to do so properly to avoid any potential health risks. If you notice that your almond milk creamer has been left out for more than two hours, it’s best to discard it immediately. This is especially important if the temperature in the room is over 90°F or 32°C, as the almond milk creamer can spoil even faster.
To dispose of almond milk creamer, simply pour it down the drain and rinse the container thoroughly with hot water and soap. If you have a compost bin or a garden, you can also dispose of it there as it can be used as a fertilizer. However, be sure to check with your local waste management guidelines to ensure that this is allowed in your area.
It’s important to never leave almond milk creamer out at room temperature overnight, as this can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage. If you accidentally leave it out overnight, it’s best to discard it immediately rather than risk consuming contaminated or spoiled almond milk creamer.
