Are you a fan of Oatly milk?
This creamy, dairy-free alternative has been taking the world by storm, but there’s one question that many people are still asking: does it need to be refrigerated?
The answer is not as simple as you might think. Depending on the packaging and brand, some oat milk can be stored at room temperature until opened, while others need to be kept chilled at all times.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of oat milk and how to store them properly to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.
So, whether you’re a long-time fan of Oatly or just curious about this trendy milk alternative, keep reading to find out everything you need to know about storing oat milk.
Does Oatly Milk Need To Be Refrigerated?
When it comes to Oatly milk, the answer to whether or not it needs to be refrigerated depends on the type of packaging it comes in. Oatly offers two different ranges of oat milk: chilled and ambient.
The chilled oat milk comes in a slanted-top carton and needs to be refrigerated both before and after opening. This is because it is pasteurized and stored in a regular carton, which means it has a shorter shelf life and needs to be kept cold to maintain its freshness.
On the other hand, Oatly’s ambient oat milk comes in aseptic packaging with an inner seal and different layers that provide the product with long-life qualities. This means that it can be stored at room temperature for up to 12 months before opening. Once opened, however, it should be refrigerated to maintain its freshness.
It’s important to note that not all store-bought oat milk is created equal. Some brands may require refrigeration before opening, while others can be stored at room temperature until opened. It’s always best to check the packaging for specific storage instructions.
Different Types Of Oat Milk
When it comes to Oatly, there are two different types of oat milk available: chilled and ambient. The chilled oat milk comes in a slanted-top carton and needs to be refrigerated both before and after opening. This type of oat milk has a shorter shelf life and needs to be kept cold to maintain its freshness.
On the other hand, Oatly’s ambient oat milk comes in aseptic packaging with an inner seal and different layers that provide the product with long-life qualities. This type of oat milk can be stored at room temperature for up to 12 months before opening. Once opened, however, it should be refrigerated to maintain its freshness.
It’s important to note that different brands of oat milk may have different storage requirements. Some may need to be refrigerated before opening, while others can be stored at room temperature. It’s always best to check the packaging for specific storage instructions.
When choosing between chilled and ambient oat milk, it’s important to consider your storage options and how quickly you plan on consuming the product. If you have limited refrigerator space or don’t plan on using the oat milk within a week, ambient oat milk may be a better option for you. However, if you prefer your oat milk cold and plan on using it within a week, chilled oat milk may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and lifestyle needs.
Shelf-Stable Oat Milk
Shelf-stable oat milk, like Oatly’s ambient range, is UHT-treated and packaged aseptically, which allows for a longer shelf life and no need for refrigeration until it’s been opened for the first time. This type of packaging is designed to keep the product fresh and safe from contamination without the need for preservatives.
It’s important to keep in mind that once the shelf-stable oat milk has been opened, it should be refrigerated to maintain its freshness. Like all dairy-free milk alternatives, it’s best to consume within seven to ten days of opening for optimal taste and quality.
While shelf-stable oat milk may not require refrigeration before opening, it’s still important to store it properly. It should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat. This will help to prevent spoilage and ensure that the product remains safe to consume.
Refrigerated Oat Milk
If you have purchased Oatly’s chilled oat milk, it is important to keep it refrigerated both before and after opening. This type of oat milk has a shorter shelf life due to the fact that it is pasteurized and stored in a regular carton. Keeping it cold will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from spoiling.
It’s worth noting that once opened, Oatly’s chilled oat milk should be consumed within seven days. This is because once the seal is broken, the milk is exposed to air and bacteria which can cause it to spoil quickly. To ensure that your oat milk stays fresh for as long as possible, be sure to store it in the coldest part of your refrigerator and make sure that the lid is tightly sealed after each use.
If you’re unsure whether or not your oat milk needs to be refrigerated, check the packaging for specific storage instructions. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and keep your oat milk cold, especially if you’re unsure how long it has been sitting on the shelf before you purchased it.
How To Store Oat Milk Properly
To store oat milk properly, it’s important to follow the instructions on the packaging. If you have chilled oat milk, make sure to keep it refrigerated both before and after opening. Once opened, it should be consumed within a week for optimal freshness.
If you have ambient oat milk, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 12 months before opening. However, once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within a week.
If you’re unsure of whether or not your oat milk needs to be refrigerated before opening, check the packaging for specific instructions. Some brands may require refrigeration, while others can be stored in the pantry until opened.
Regardless of the type of oat milk you have, make sure to always tightly reseal the container after opening to maintain its freshness. And if you’re going on a picnic or don’t have access to a fridge, store your oat milk in a cooler with ice to keep it fresh.
Signs Of Spoiled Oat Milk
While oat milk has a longer shelf life compared to dairy milk, it can still spoil if not stored properly or left out for too long. Here are some signs to look out for to determine if your oat milk has gone bad:
1. Change in color: Spoiled oat milk will have a yellowish tint, which is darker than its natural color. If you notice any discoloration, it’s best to discard the milk.
2. Unpleasant odor: Fresh oat milk has a mild and slightly sweet aroma. If you detect a sour or rancid smell, it’s a sign that the milk has gone bad.
3. Strange texture: Spoiled oat milk may become lumpy or thick, which is a clear indication that it’s no longer safe to consume.
4. Off taste: Fresh oat milk has a slightly sweet and nutty taste. If you notice a sour or bitter taste, it’s best to discard the milk.
It’s important to note that consuming spoiled oat milk can lead to food poisoning, which can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or fever. If you’re unsure whether your oat milk is still fresh or not, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
