Have you ever opened your fridge to find a carton of almond milk that’s been sitting there for a while?
You might be tempted to take a sip, but what happens if it’s gone bad?
Spoiled almond milk can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, from upset stomach to food poisoning.
In this article, we’ll explore the different ways that almond milk can spoil, the risks of drinking expired almond milk, and what you can do to avoid getting sick.
So, before you take a swig of that questionable carton, read on to learn more about the potential dangers of drinking spoiled almond milk.
What Happens If You Drink Spoiled Almond Milk?
Drinking spoiled almond milk can lead to a variety of unpleasant symptoms. The most common effects include upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms are caused by harmful bacteria that develop in the milk as it spoils. If you drink expired almond milk, you’ll be consuming a large number of bad bacteria, which can cause stomach upset and other digestive issues.
In some cases, very rancid almond milk can cause more severe food poisoning. 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.
It’s important to note that curdling is a sign that almond milk has gone bad and should not be consumed. Curdling occurs when harmful bacteria such as Lactobacillus starts to break down the proteins of the milk, which makes it separate into solid chunks and liquid. Additionally, if your almond milk has been sitting out of the fridge for too long, it is likely that it has gone bad.
Consuming expired almond milk can pass without any consequences if it is not spoiled. However, there is a risk of stomach problems with food poisoning symptoms, such as cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Bacteria developed in spoiled milk may cause only mild discomfort that lasts for several hours.
How Does Almond Milk Spoil?
Almond milk spoils in much the same way as traditional milk. Bacteria are responsible for making almond milk go bad. When almond milk is left at room temperature for too long, bacteria can grow and multiply, leading to spoilage. This is why it is important to refrigerate almond milk and observe hygienic handling.
Curdling is a sign that almond milk has gone bad and should not be consumed. Harmful bacteria such as Lactobacillus start to break down the proteins of the milk, which makes it separate into solid chunks and liquid. If your almond milk has been sitting out of the fridge for too long, it is likely that it has gone bad.
Mycotoxins, which are produced by mold, can also cause digestive issues when expired almond milk is consumed. While we sometimes accidentally ingest mold, in small amounts it’s pretty harmless. However, consuming large amounts of spoiled almond milk that contains mycotoxins can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or a combination of those symptoms.
It’s important to note that the severity of the symptoms you experience will depend on the amount of spoiled almond milk you consumed. A sip or two to determine if the milk was good likely won’t cause any major digestive problems. However, consuming large amounts of spoiled almond milk can worsen existing health conditions or even cause permanent damage.
Symptoms Of Drinking Expired Almond Milk
If you drink expired almond milk, you may experience a range of symptoms. The most common symptoms include upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms are caused by harmful bacteria that develop in the milk as it spoils.
Very rancid almond milk can cause more severe food poisoning, which can result in more intense symptoms such as severe stomach cramps, fever, and chills. If you experience these symptoms after drinking expired almond milk, it is important to seek medical attention.
It’s important to note that curdled almond milk is a sign that it has gone bad and should not be consumed. Curdling occurs when harmful bacteria such as Lactobacillus starts to break down the proteins of the milk, which makes it separate into solid chunks and liquid.
If you notice any of these symptoms after drinking expired almond milk, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This will help to prevent dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhea. You can also drink Pedialyte or sports drinks to support your kidneys as they cleanse your system.
In some cases, ingesting spoiled almond milk can worsen pre-existing health conditions or even cause permanent damage. It’s important to be cautious when consuming any type of expired food or drink and to always check for signs of spoilage before consuming it.
Risks Of Consuming Spoiled Almond Milk
There are several risks associated with consuming spoiled almond milk. The most immediate risk is food poisoning, which can cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe based on how spoiled the milk is. Stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain are all signs of food poisoning that could be caused by consuming spoiled almond milk. These symptoms can last anywhere from a few hours to a day or two.
In some cases, very rancid almond milk can cause more severe food poisoning that may require medical attention. 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.
It’s also important to note that consuming spoiled almond milk can lead to dehydration. Vomiting and diarrhea, which are likely to result from drinking spoiled almond milk, can dry you out. Drinking Pedialyte or sports drinks can help support your kidneys as they cleanse your system and prevent dehydration.
Lastly, consuming spoiled almond milk can lead to an upset stomach and other digestive issues. Harmful bacteria develop in the milk as it spoils, which can cause stomach upset and other digestive issues. It’s important to note that curdling is a sign that almond milk has gone bad and should not be consumed. If your almond milk has been sitting out of the fridge for too long or smells off, it is likely that it has gone bad and should be discarded immediately.
How To Tell If Your Almond Milk Has Gone Bad
Almond milk, like any other perishable food, has a limited shelf-life. It is important to know how to tell if your almond milk has gone bad to avoid consuming spoiled milk. Here are some signs to look out for:
1. Smell: One of the most common ways to tell if your almond milk has gone bad is by smelling it. If it smells sour or has a pungent odor, it’s time to throw it away.
2. Texture: Almond milk that has gone bad may become thicker or clumpy. If you notice any lumps or clumps in the milk, it’s best to discard it.
3. Taste: Spoiled almond milk may have an off taste or bitter flavor. If your almond milk tastes different from how it should, it’s best not to consume it.
4. Curdling: Curdling is a sign that your almond milk has gone bad and should not be consumed. If you notice any separation of the liquid and solid chunks in your almond milk, it’s time to throw it away.
5. Expiration Date: Always check the expiration date of your almond milk before consuming it. If the date has passed, discard the milk.
It’s important to store your almond milk properly in the fridge and consume it within the recommended time frame after opening. If you have any doubts about the freshness of your almond milk, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.
How To Store Almond Milk To Avoid Spoilage
To avoid spoiling your almond milk, it’s important to store it properly. The storage method depends on whether the almond milk is shelf-stable or refrigerated. Shelf-stable almond milk can be stored at room temperature until it’s opened, but once opened, it should be refrigerated immediately and consumed within 7 to 10 days. On the other hand, refrigerated almond milk should always be stored in the refrigerator, both before and after opening.
When storing almond milk, it’s important to keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This can cause the milk to spoil more quickly. Additionally, make sure to seal the carton tightly after each use to prevent bacteria from entering. If the almond milk comes in a resealable carton, use that to store it. If not, transfer the milk to an airtight container or pitcher.
It’s also important to check the expiration date on the carton before purchasing and consuming almond milk. Choose the farthest out date to ensure you’re getting the freshest product. Once opened, make sure to consume the almond milk within the recommended timeframe, which is usually 7-10 days for refrigerated milk and 4-6 weeks for shelf-stable milk if unopened.
Finally, if you make your own almond milk or purchase fresh almond milk from a local source, it will only last about 5-7 days in the refrigerator. Therefore, it’s best to only make or purchase what you can consume within that timeframe to avoid waste and potential spoilage.
