Are you someone who loves almond milk but is always worried about whether it’s still safe to drink after the expiration date?
You’re not alone! With so many different types of almond milk available, it can be confusing to know how long it lasts and when it’s time to toss it out.
In this article, we’ll explore the shelf life of almond milk and answer the burning question: is almond milk still good after the expiration date?
Read on to find out everything you need to know about this popular dairy-free alternative.
Is Almond Milk Still Good After The Expiration Date?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, such as the type of almond milk and how it’s been stored.
Shelf-stable almond milk, which is ultra-pasteurized and sealed in special packaging, can last for up to one to two months unopened and up to 10 days once opened and refrigerated. However, it’s important to monitor the milk for any signs of spoilage, even if it’s within the expiration date range.
Refrigerated almond milk tends to be ultra-pasteurized as well, but it has a shorter shelf life. An unopened carton of refrigerated almond milk will stay fresh for roughly one week after the date on the product, provided it was kept at a consistent temperature of 40°F or below. Once opened, it should last up to seven days when properly stored in the refrigerator.
Homemade almond milk or almond milk from a fresh local source doesn’t contain any additives to preserve it, so it will only last about five days even if properly stored in the refrigerator.
It’s important to note that expiration dates on almond milk are more about food quality than safety. While unopened shelf-stable almond milk can last for up to two years, its taste may deteriorate over time. Refrigerated almond milk should not be consumed past its expiration date, as it doesn’t have as many preservatives and is not stored in shelf-stable packaging.
Understanding The Expiration Date On Almond Milk
The expiration date on almond milk packaging can be confusing, as there are different types of dates such as “sell-by,” “best-by,” and “use before.” According to the FDA, these dates are not food safety indicators but rather the manufacturer’s assessment of peak quality for the product.
For shelf-stable almond milk, which is ultra-pasteurized and sealed in special packaging, an unopened carton can last for up to one to two years past the expiration date. Once opened and refrigerated, it should last up to 10 days. However, it’s important to monitor the milk for any signs of spoilage, even if it’s within the expiration date range.
Refrigerated almond milk also tends to be ultra-pasteurized but has a shorter shelf life. An unopened carton will stay fresh for roughly one week after the date on the product, provided it was kept at a consistent temperature of 40°F or below. Once opened, it should last up to seven days when properly stored in the refrigerator.
It’s important to note that homemade almond milk or almond milk from a fresh local source doesn’t contain any additives to preserve it, so it will only last about five days even if properly stored in the refrigerator.
When consuming almond milk that is past its expiration date, it’s essential to check for any signs of spoilage such as a sour smell or clumping. If there are any doubts about its safety, it’s better to err on the side of caution and discard it. Remember that expiration dates on almond milk are more about food quality than safety.
Factors That Affect The Shelf Life Of Almond Milk
The shelf life of almond milk can be affected by several factors, including the type of almond milk and how it’s been stored.
One key factor is the type of almond milk. As mentioned earlier, shelf-stable almond milk has a longer shelf life than refrigerated almond milk. This is because it is ultra-pasteurized and sealed in special packaging, which helps to preserve its freshness for a longer period of time. On the other hand, refrigerated almond milk is typically only ultra-pasteurized, which means it has a shorter shelf life.
Another factor that affects the shelf life of almond milk is how it’s been stored. Almond milk should always be refrigerated after opening, regardless of whether it was originally shelf-stable or refrigerated. If almond milk is left at room temperature after opening, it will spoil more quickly and may become unsafe to consume.
It’s also important to note that homemade almond milk or almond milk from a fresh local source will have a shorter shelf life than store-bought varieties. This is because they don’t contain any additives to preserve them, so they are more susceptible to spoilage.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that expiration dates on almond milk are not always an accurate indicator of whether the milk is still good. While unopened shelf-stable almond milk can last for up to two years past its expiration date, its taste may deteriorate over time. On the other hand, refrigerated almond milk should not be consumed past its expiration date, as it doesn’t have as many preservatives and is not stored in shelf-stable packaging. Ultimately, the best way to determine whether almond milk is still good after the expiration date is to check for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or taste.
Signs That Almond Milk Has Gone Bad
Almond milk that has gone bad will have a few telltale signs. One of the most noticeable signs is a change in smell. Fresh almond milk has a nutty and sweet aroma, but when it goes bad, it will have a sour or pungent smell. If the milk smells off, it’s best to throw it out.
Another sign that almond milk has gone bad is curdling or separation. Separation is natural in almond milk, but if the milk appears lumpy or curdled, it’s a sign that it has gone bad. If you notice any clumps or chunks in the milk, it’s best to discard it.
Spoiled almond milk can also have an off taste. If the milk tastes sour, bitter, or acrid, it’s a sign that it has gone bad. This is especially true if there is an added sweetener in the variety you’re buying.
If you’re unsure if your almond milk has gone bad, you can perform a simple freshness test. Add a bit of your almond milk into a cup of hot coffee and observe if it curdles on its own. Spoiled almond milk will curdle in hot coffee and form tiny kernel particles.
It’s important to store opened cartons of almond milk properly to prevent spoilage. Keep them in the back of the fridge where it’s colder and make sure the cap is tightly closed. It’s also recommended to consume almond milk within two to three days after opening to ensure freshness.
Ways To Extend The Shelf Life Of Almond Milk
If you want to extend the shelf life of your almond milk, there are a few things you can do. First, always store your almond milk in the coldest part of the refrigerator, preferably towards the back. This will help ensure a consistent temperature and prevent spoilage.
Another tip is to make sure you are using clean utensils and containers when handling your almond milk. This will help prevent bacteria from contaminating the milk and causing it to spoil more quickly.
If you have homemade almond milk, consider freezing it in ice cube trays. This will not only extend its shelf life, but also give you convenient portions to use in smoothies or other recipes.
When purchasing almond milk, try to buy only what you need and use it up before its expiration date. This will help prevent waste and ensure that you are consuming fresh almond milk.
Finally, always check your almond milk for signs of spoilage before consuming it. If it has an off odor or appearance, or if it tastes sour, it’s best to discard it and buy a fresh carton. By following these tips, you can help extend the shelf life of your almond milk and enjoy it for longer.
Can You Still Use Almond Milk After The Expiration Date?
You can still use almond milk after the expiration date, but you should be wary of certain signs of spoilage. These include a sour taste, thicker texture, clumping, off smell, unusually bloated carton, and color changes. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the almond milk. It’s important to remember that while expiration dates provide a guideline for quality and freshness, they are not always an indication of safety. Always use your best judgment and sensory cues when deciding whether or not to consume almond milk past its expiration date.
Risks Of Consuming Expired Almond Milk
Consuming expired almond milk can pose several risks to your health. Just like with traditional milk, bacteria are responsible for making almond milk go bad. Drinking expired almond milk can lead to consuming a large number of bad bacteria, which can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. In some cases, very rancid almond milk can cause more severe food poisoning.
While it’s true that mycotoxins produced by mold can also cause digestive issues when consuming expired almond milk, it’s important to note that accidentally ingesting small amounts of mold is generally harmless. However, taking a big gulp of way-past-its-prime almond milk will likely taste rather awful, so it’s best to store it properly and make sure it’s still fresh.
It’s also important to note that consuming milk past its expiration date can put you at risk of infection as the milk may contain harmful bacteria. This is especially true for refrigerated almond milk, which doesn’t have as many preservatives and is not stored in shelf-stable packaging. Therefore, it’s best to avoid drinking almond milk past its expiration date.
If you realize too late that your almond milk has gone bad, the most important thing you can do is stay hydrated. Vomiting and diarrhea, which are likely to result, will dry you out. Drinking Pedialyte or sports drinks can help support your kidneys as they cleanse your system. If you are having trouble keeping liquids down, it’s a good idea to go to the hospital to get some help staying hydrated while you recover.
