Almond milk is a dairy-free milk substitute often used in smoothies, coffee, and baking recipes. However, many people are unsure if almond milk needs to be refrigerated or not. The answer to this question is ambiguous, as different brands of almond milk have different instructions. Some say that almond milk does not need to be refrigerated, while others say that it should be refrigerated after opening.
Does almond milk need to be refrigerated?
It depends on the varieties that you are buying. If you buy the milk from the refrigerated section, always refrigerate it at your home. The milk that is bought from the normal isles is shelf-stable milk. You can store this one in your pantry before opening it.
The consensus seems to be that nut milk should be refrigerated after opening, as it can spoil quickly. You should quickly refrigerate even the shelf-stable milk after opening. Ultimately, it is best to check the label on your specific brand of almond milk.
Some almond milk does not need to be refrigerated, but it is best for this almond milk to stay sealed. Open cartons of non-refrigerated almond milk should be stored in the fridge and used within a week.
When an open carton of almond milk is refrigerated, you should use it within a few days. Unopened cartons of shelf-stable almond milk can sit in the pantry for up to their best before. Always refrigerate it after opening.
How to tell if almond milk is spoiled?
A change in color or taste can indicate that your almond milk has gone bad. Fresh milk should have a creamy white color, and it shouldn’t have any sediment or curds.
If you notice any mold, discoloration, or off odors when you open the carton, then it has most likely gone bad and should be thrown out.
Shelf-stable vs refrigerated
There are two main types of almond milk: shelf-stable and refrigerated. Shelf-stable almond milk is processed using very high heat on aseptic lines, while refrigerated almond milk is processed as normal dairy processing lines.
Most brands of both types of almond milk recommend that they should be refrigerated after opening. Refrigerated almond milk feels fresher as compared with shelf-stable.
How to store opened nut milk?
When you open a carton of almond milk, it is most likely best to refrigerate it. This will help extend its shelf-life. Although some brands are OK being stored at room temperature before opening, it is most likely safest to keep the opened carton in the refrigerator.
Does almond milk need to be refrigerated before opening?
Shelf-stable Almond milk does not need refrigeration before opening. However, the shelf-life of almond milk may increase if it is kept in the fridge.
Moreover, refrigerated milk tastes better in shakes and smoothies. You can even drink it as it is. It is a delicious drink to enjoy refrigerated on a hot summer day.
Does refrigerated nut milk go bad?
Yes, refrigerated almond milk can go quickly spoil after opening. You should consume the opened container within seven days of opening. If the container is not open and the expiry date is passed, always check for any odor and the consistency of the milk.
Any curdled particles or the thicker consistency point towards the spoiled milk. Never consume almond milk that is not fresh.
Pour a small amount in a glass or pour in the sink to check. If you see the curdled milk
Can you freeze almond milk?
Yes, you can freeze almond milk. You can drink it directly after thawing or use it in any recipe you want. Sometimes freezing changes the texture of the milk, which means you may not want to drink it. However, you can still use it in recipes.
Freezing helps keep the fresh flavors intact, and the milk can last longer.
Homemade almond milk
Homemade milk has the best taste and flavor. But, unfortunately, it is not very cost-effective and takes some time to make. But the store bought cannot match the goodness of homemade milk. Although it is my personal opinion, you may like the store-bought milk more due to its consistency.
Homemade almond milk has better nutritional value than store-bought milk. Once you have prepared the milk, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Consume it within 5-7 days.
Homemade almond milk can spoil quickly as it is not pasteurized or sterilized as store-bought milk. Consume it within a few days.
Storage tips
Here are some extra tips for storing the nut milk to extend the shelf life.
- Non-refrigerated almond milk should never be left unopened at room temperature for more than an hour, as it can spoil. Refrigerated almond milk can sit out of the refrigerator for up to two hours before being put back in the fridge.
- Store the Shelf-stable variety in a cabinet or pantry away from the sunlight. Direct sunlight can spoil food items. It would help if you refrigerated the opened cartons for any variety.
- Keep the opened milk cartons at the back of the fridge, not in the door. The door is opened many times a day and is frequently exposed to warmer temperatures.
- Always refrigerate Homemade almond milk and consume within a few days. It will spoil in a few days due to not being processed as store-bought varieties.
- Check the expiry date: Don’t drink after the expiration, as the milk may have spoiled. Also, the foul smell is not strong like the dairy milk, so you may miss the subtle signs of initial deterioration stages.
Concluding thoughts
To conclude, refrigerate the nut milk after opening the container. It can go bad if not stored properly. Different varieties have different storage instructions. Refrigerated types should always be refrigerated, whether opened or sealed.
Shelf-stable varieties can be stored in a pantry away from sunlight. But once opened, refrigerate immediately and consume within a few days.
I hope you will get all the answers concerning almond milk.
