How Long Does Homemade Oat Milk Last In The Fridge?

Are you a fan of homemade oat milk?

It’s a delicious and nutritious alternative to dairy milk, and it’s easy to make at home.

But how long does it last in the fridge?

With conflicting information online, it can be hard to know for sure.

In this article, we’ll explore the shelf life of homemade oat milk and provide some tips for keeping it fresh.

Whether you’re a seasoned oat milk maker or just starting out, read on to learn more.

How Long Does Homemade Oat Milk Last In The Fridge?

Homemade oat milk is a great dairy-free and nut-free milk alternative that’s easy to make at home. But how long does it last in the fridge?

According to various sources, homemade oat milk will generally last up to 5 days in the refrigerator. This is because it doesn’t contain any stabilizers or preservatives like store-bought varieties. However, it’s important to note that the shelf life can vary depending on how it’s made and stored.

If you want to extend the shelf life of your homemade oat milk, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure to blend and strain the mixture thoroughly to remove any excess pulp. This will help prevent spoilage and separation in the fridge.

Next, store your oat milk in an airtight container, such as a mason jar or a glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid. This will help prevent air and moisture from getting in and spoiling the milk.

Finally, keep your oat milk in the coldest part of the fridge, such as the back or bottom shelf. Avoid storing it on the door or in a place where temperature frequently changes.

Why Homemade Oat Milk Is A Great Alternative To Dairy Milk

Homemade oat milk is a great alternative to dairy milk for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a perfect option for people who have dietary restrictions or food sensitivities, as it’s naturally free of dairy, lactose, soy, and nuts. This makes it safe for people with dairy and soy allergies, as well as those who have a tree nut allergy and want to avoid dairy.

Secondly, oat milk is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a sustainable and ethical milk alternative. In comparison to cow’s milk, oat milk produces less than a third of greenhouse gas emissions, requires 13 times less water and 11 times less land. And, of course, oat milk is far more ethical than cow’s milk because it doesn’t exploit animals!

Thirdly, oat milk is also a healthier option than cow’s milk. In terms of nutrition, oat milk has healthy fats, protein, fiber, is low-sugar and high in vitamins (especially the fortified varieties). On the other hand, cow’s milk has mostly unhealthy fats, no fiber, some protein, is higher in sugar (lactose), and much harder to digest because many people are lactose-intolerant. Additionally, cow’s milk naturally contains hormones that may be linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

Lastly, homemade oat milk is easy to make and customize according to your preferences. All you need are rolled oats, water, a blender and a cheesecloth or nut milk bag. Some recipes call for soaking the oats for a few minutes, while others suggest skipping the soaking altogether – the choice is yours. You can also add seasoning like salt or vanilla to enhance the flavor.

The Shelf Life Of Homemade Oat Milk: What You Need To Know

When it comes to the shelf life of homemade oat milk, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. Firstly, homemade oat milk doesn’t contain any preservatives or stabilizers like store-bought varieties, which means it has a shorter shelf life. Generally, homemade oat milk will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

To ensure your homemade oat milk lasts as long as possible, it’s important to blend and strain the mixture thoroughly. This will remove any excess pulp and help prevent spoilage and separation in the fridge.

Storing your oat milk in an airtight container is also crucial for extending its shelf life. Mason jars or glass bottles with tight-fitting lids work well for this purpose. Make sure to keep your oat milk in the coldest part of the fridge, such as the back or bottom shelf, to prevent spoilage.

If you notice any changes in the smell or texture of your oat milk, it’s best to discard it. Homemade oat milk doesn’t have the same long shelf life as store-bought varieties, so it’s important to consume it within the recommended time frame. However, if you find that you’re not using up your homemade oat milk quickly enough, you can freeze it for later use. Simply pour the oat milk into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Factors That Affect The Shelf Life Of Oat Milk

There are several factors that can affect the shelf life of oat milk, whether homemade or store-bought. One of the main factors is the presence of stabilizers and preservatives. Store-bought oat milk often contains additives that extend its shelf life, allowing it to last up to 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator and up to 6 months in the freezer. Homemade oat milk, on the other hand, does not contain any preservatives, which means it has a shorter shelf life of about 5 days in the fridge.

Another factor that can affect the shelf life of oat milk is how it’s stored. Oat milk should always be stored in an airtight container to prevent air and moisture from getting in and spoiling the milk. It’s also important to store oat milk in the coldest part of the fridge, such as the back or bottom shelf, to maintain its freshness.

The type of oat milk can also play a role in its shelf life. There are two types of oat milk: shelf-stable and refrigerated. Shelf-stable oat milk can sit in your pantry or on a countertop for months without refrigeration until it’s opened. Once opened, it should be stored in the fridge and consumed within 5-10 days. Refrigerated oat milk, as the name suggests, requires refrigeration at all times and has a shorter shelf life of about 2-3 weeks.

Finally, exposure to fluctuating temperatures can also affect the shelf life of oat milk. It’s important to store oat milk in an area of the fridge that is not frequently opened or visited to prevent exposure to warm air.

How To Store Homemade Oat Milk To Keep It Fresh

Storing homemade oat milk properly is key to keeping it fresh for as long as possible. The best way to store oat milk is in a glass container with a large opening, which makes cleaning easier. Look around your home to see if you have any bottles or jars that can be repurposed for this use. Kilner bottles are also a good option for storing oat milk.

It’s important to note that without any stabilizers or emulsifiers, the milk will separate in the fridge. This is normal, so don’t worry if you see this happen. Just give it a good stir before drinking.

When storing your oat milk, make sure the container fits well in your fridge so you can make the most of the storage space. However, one problem with glass bottles is that they can be difficult to clean effectively without leaving any residue. To solve this problem, there are several options available such as using a bottle brush or soaking the bottle in warm soapy water.

To keep your homemade oat milk fresh for longer, it’s important to store it in an airtight container such as a Weck or Mason jar that seals tightly. This will help prevent air and moisture from getting in and spoiling the milk. Additionally, make sure to store your oat milk in the coldest part of the fridge, such as the back or bottom shelf, and avoid storing it on the door or in a place where temperature frequently changes.

Signs That Your Homemade Oat Milk Has Gone Bad

While homemade oat milk generally has a shorter shelf life than store-bought varieties, it’s still important to know when it’s gone bad. Here are some signs to look out for:

1. Smell: If your oat milk has a sour or unpleasant odor, it’s likely gone bad.

2. Texture: If your oat milk has separated or has a lumpy texture, it’s also a sign that it’s gone bad.

3. Taste: If your oat milk tastes sour or off, it’s definitely time to throw it out.

4. Appearance: If there are any visible signs of mold or discoloration, the oat milk is no longer safe to consume.

It’s important to note that consuming spoiled oat milk can lead to food poisoning and other health issues. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and throw it out.

Tips For Using Up Leftover Oat Milk Before It Expires

If you have leftover oat milk that’s nearing its expiration date, there are plenty of ways to use it up before it goes bad. Here are some tips:

1. Use it in your morning coffee or tea instead of dairy milk. Oat milk has a creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs well with coffee and tea.

2. Pour it over your cereal or granola for a delicious and nutritious breakfast.

3. Use it as a base for smoothies or protein shakes. Oat milk adds a creamy texture and subtle sweetness to any smoothie recipe.

4. Make oat milk pancakes or waffles. Simply substitute oat milk for dairy milk in your favorite pancake or waffle recipe.

5. Use it in baking recipes that call for milk, such as muffins or cakes.

6. Freeze leftover oat milk in ice cube trays and use them in smoothies or iced coffee drinks.

7. Make a creamy oat milk soup by blending leftover oat milk with cooked vegetables and seasonings.

By using up your leftover oat milk in creative ways, you can reduce food waste and enjoy the benefits of this delicious and nutritious dairy-free milk alternative.