Almond milk has become a popular alternative to dairy milk, especially for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. But what happens when that carton of almond milk in your fridge goes bad? Can you still drink it?
The short answer is no. Drinking spoiled almond milk can lead to a range of unpleasant symptoms, from upset stomach to food poisoning.
In this article, we’ll explore the signs of spoiled almond milk, the risks of consuming it, and what you can do to avoid getting sick.
So, grab a glass of fresh almond milk (or water) and let’s dive in!
What Happens When You Drink Spoiled Almond Milk?
When almond milk goes bad, it’s usually due to the growth of bacteria, which can cause a range of health issues if consumed. The most common symptoms of drinking spoiled almond milk include upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can even lead to food poisoning.
Spoiled almond milk can also curdle, which is a sign that it has gone bad and should not be consumed. You can detect spoilage by smelling your almond milk for any unusual aromas. Additionally, if your almond milk has been sitting out of the fridge for too long, it is likely that it has gone bad.
It’s important to note that refrigerating almond milk slows down the process of spoilage, but it doesn’t fully prevent it. Opened almond milk that’s kept in a refrigerator typically goes bad within four to seven days of the printed best-by date. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as thickening or clumping, sour taste or smell, or unusual discoloration, it’s best to throw it out immediately.
Signs Of Spoiled Almond Milk
There are several signs that indicate almond milk has gone bad and should not be consumed. One of the most noticeable signs is a sour or bitter taste. If you take a sip and immediately feel the urge to spit it out, it’s a clear indication that the milk is no longer edible.
Another sign of spoiled almond milk is a change in texture. When almond milk goes bad, it can become thick and clumpy, which is an indication that it has gone bad. If you notice any clumps or chunks in your almond milk, it’s best to throw it out.
Spoiled almond milk can also have an unusual smell. If your almond milk smells sour or rancid, it’s a clear indication that it has gone bad and should not be consumed. Additionally, if your almond milk has been sitting out of the fridge for too long, it is likely that it has gone bad.
It’s important to note that refrigerating almond milk slows down the process of spoilage, but it doesn’t fully prevent it. Opened almond milk that’s kept in a refrigerator typically goes bad within four to seven days of the printed best-by date. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as thickening or clumping, sour taste or smell, or unusual discoloration, it’s best to throw it out immediately to avoid any potential health issues.
The Risks Of Drinking Spoiled Almond Milk
Drinking spoiled almond milk can be harmful to your health, as it can cause a range of digestive issues. The bacteria that grow in spoiled almond milk can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and may last for several hours or even a day or two.
In severe cases, drinking spoiled almond milk can lead to food poisoning. This can cause more severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and dehydration. If you are experiencing severe symptoms or they persist for more than a day, it’s important to seek medical attention to prevent further complications.
It’s important to note that the severity of the symptoms you experience will depend on the amount of spoiled milk you consumed. Drinking a sip or two to determine if the milk is good is unlikely to cause major digestive problems. However, drinking larger amounts of spoiled almond milk can cause stomach distress and may lead to more severe symptoms.
To prevent the risks associated with drinking spoiled almond milk, it’s important to store it properly in the refrigerator and observe hygienic handling. Always check the expiration date before consuming and discard any milk that shows signs of spoilage. If you suspect that you have consumed spoiled almond milk and are experiencing symptoms, stay hydrated by drinking fluids that contain sugar or electrolytes such as Pedialyte or sports drinks. Avoid taking any medication to stop diarrhea as this may prevent your body from eliminating whatever caused the problem.
Symptoms Of Almond Milk Food Poisoning
If you consume spoiled almond milk, you may experience symptoms of food poisoning. The severity of these symptoms depends on how spoiled the milk is and how much you consume. The most common symptoms of almond milk food poisoning include:
1. Stomach Cramps: You may experience abdominal pain or cramps after consuming spoiled almond milk. These cramps can range from mild discomfort to severe pain.
2. Diarrhea: Spoiled almond milk can cause diarrhea, which is characterized by loose, watery stools. This symptom can lead to dehydration if not treated promptly.
3. Vomiting: If you consume spoiled almond milk, you may experience vomiting, which is your body’s way of getting rid of the toxins.
4. Upset Stomach: An upset stomach is a common symptom of food poisoning caused by spoiled almond milk. You may feel nauseous or have an overall feeling of discomfort in your stomach.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can occur within a few hours of consuming spoiled almond milk, and they can last for several days. If you experience any of these symptoms after drinking almond milk, it’s best to seek medical attention immediately. In severe cases, food poisoning can lead to hospitalization and even death. Therefore, it’s crucial to be aware of the signs of spoilage and to discard any almond milk that has gone bad.
How To Properly Store Almond Milk
Proper storage is key to ensuring that your almond milk stays fresh for as long as possible. If your almond milk is shelf-stable and unopened, it can be stored in a pantry or cupboard at room temperature until the printed expiration date. However, once opened, it should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within seven to ten days.
Refrigerated almond milk should always be kept in the fridge, sealed tightly to prevent exposure to air and bacteria. It’s important to note that almond milk should never be left out of the fridge for more than two hours, as this can lead to spoilage.
If you’re not planning on using your almond milk before the expiration date, you can also freeze it to extend its shelf life. Simply pour the almond milk into a freezer-safe container, leaving some room at the top to allow for expansion during freezing. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the almond milk in the refrigerator overnight.
When checking if your almond milk is still fresh, start by examining it for any changes in color or texture. Next, give it a sniff to see if there are any unusual odors. Finally, taste a small amount to ensure that it hasn’t gone bad. If you notice any signs of spoilage, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard the almond milk.
Tips For Avoiding Spoiled Almond Milk
Here are some tips to help you avoid drinking spoiled almond milk:
1. Check the expiration date: Always check the printed best-by date on your almond milk carton before purchasing it. Make sure it has a reasonable shelf life and that you’ll be able to consume it before it expires.
2. Store it properly: Once you’ve opened your almond milk, make sure to store it in the refrigerator at all times. This will help slow down the process of spoilage and extend its shelf life.
3. Keep it covered: When storing your almond milk in the fridge, make sure to keep it covered with its original cap or a tight-fitting lid. This will prevent bacteria from entering and contaminating the milk.
4. Smell it before consuming: Always give your almond milk a sniff before drinking it. If it smells sour or off, it’s likely that it has gone bad and should be thrown out.
5. Don’t drink expired milk: As mentioned earlier, once your almond milk has passed its best-by date, it’s best to throw it out. Consuming expired almond milk can lead to food poisoning and other health issues.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your almond milk stays fresh and safe to consume for as long as possible.
When To Throw Out Almond Milk
Knowing when to throw out almond milk is crucial to avoid consuming spoiled milk and getting sick. The best-by date printed on the carton is a good indicator of when the milk will start to spoil, but it’s not always accurate. Once you open the almond milk, it’s recommended that you consume it within four to seven days, depending on the type of almond milk.
If you notice any signs of spoilage before the expiration date or within the recommended timeframe, it’s best to throw out the almond milk. Signs of spoilage include a sour or bitter taste, an unusual smell or discoloration, and thickening or clumping. If your almond milk has been sitting out of the fridge for more than two hours, it’s also likely that it has gone bad and should be thrown out.
It’s important to handle almond milk with care to prevent contamination and spoilage. Always refrigerate almond milk after opening and store it in the back of your fridge where it’s coldest. Avoid leaving unopened or opened almond milk out on the counter or in a pantry for more than two hours. Observe hygienic handling and make sure to use a clean glass or container when pouring the milk.
