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How Long Does Almond Milk Last Once It's Opened?

Do you know about your milk health? how long does almond milk last after opening or after expiration date? This article will help you! Keep reading.
how long does almond milk last

Everyone curious about knowing 'How Long Does Almond Milk Last After The Expiration Date?'

Almond milk has become a popular plant-based milk alternative. With its creamy texture and nutty flavor, many people enjoy using almond milk in their coffee, cereals, smoothies and more. But like any perishable food, almond milk does eventually spoil. So how long does almond milk last after the expiration date or after opening?

Does Almond Milk Go Bad?

Yes, almond milk does go bad eventually. The expiration date on the carton indicates the "best by" date, after which the quality and flavor of the almond milk starts to deteriorate. It doesn't necessarily mean the milk will be unsafe to consume right after the printed date. 

Almond milk contains water and small amounts of fats and proteins. Over time, these ingredients can allow microbial growth like bacteria, yeasts and molds. This is what causes almond milk to spoil and develop an unpleasant sour taste and smell.

So while the almond milk may be okay for a short period past its expiration date, it won't taste as fresh and eventually it will go bad.

How To Tell If Almond Milk Has Gone Bad

Here are some signs that your almond milk has spoiled and should be discarded:

  • "Sour smell" - Fresh almond milk has a pleasant, nutty aroma. If it smells sour or unpleasant, it has spoiled.

  • "Change in color"- Almond milk is typically white or cream colored. If it starts to look yellow or pink, toss it. 

  • "Curdling" - Spoiled almond milk may have curdled into clumps or thin whey. 

  • "Mold" - You may see fuzzy mold growing in the bottle or carton once it has spoiled.

  • "Fizzing" - Built up gas from microbial growth may cause spoiled milk to fizz or foam when shaken.
If your almond milk exhibits any of these signs, it is best to throw it out. Safety first! Spoiled milk is not worth the stomach ache.

How Long Does Almond Milk Last After Opening?

Once opened, almond milk will generally stay fresh for:
  • 7-10 days past its printed expiration date if refrigerated.
  • 2 hours at room temperature after opening.
The shelf life depends on proper storage conditions. Heat and exposure to air will quicken the spoilage process. An opened carton will go bad much faster than an unopened, sealed carton stored in the fridge.

Does Refrigeration Extend the Shelf Life?

Yes, proper refrigeration helps extend the shelf life of almond milk significantly. 

Unopened almond milk can be stored in the fridge for up to:
  • 1 month past its printed "best by" date.
Once opened, refrigerate almond milk for up to:
  • 7-10 days past its date before use. 
The cold temperature of the refrigerator slows microbial growth. Just make sure to store the carton towards the back, not on the door where the temperature fluctuates.

Can You Freeze Almond Milk?

Freezing is another great way to extend the shelf life of almond milk by several months. 

To freeze:
  • Leave almond milk in the original carton or transfer to an airtight container. Frozen storage may cause cartons to split. 
  • Give it a good shake and make sure there is some room at the top for expansion.
  • Lay the carton on its side in the freezer so the milk remains even in thickness as it freezes. 
  • Frozen almond milk lasts for 3-4 months before quality deteriorates.
Thaw frozen milk overnight in the fridge before use. Give it a good shake once thawed and pour into your coffee or smoothies as usual. The texture may be slightly thinner after freezing.

Can You Save Separated Almond Milk?

Sometimes almond milk can separate in the carton, leaving watery whey at the bottom. This is normal and you can resuspend it with a few good shakes.

However, if the milk smells sour or shows other signs of spoilage, it should be discarded. Do not consume curdled or spoiled milk past its prime.

Tips For Storing Almond Milk

Here are some tips for maximizing the shelf life of your almond milk:
  • Store unopened cartons in the back of the fridge, not the door.
  • Screw lids on tightly and return promptly to the fridge after each use. 
  • Check the "best by" date and use within 7-10 days of opening.
  • Freeze extras if you won't use it all before the date.
  • Look for any separation, smells or mold before drinking. 
  • Don't store milk on the counter - refrigerate after opening.
Following proper refrigerated storage, freezing when possible, and checking for signs of spoilage will help your almond milk stay fresh and last longer.

Conclusion 

So how long does almond milk last after the expiration date? Generally, unopened almond milk stays good 1 week to 1 month past the printed date, especially if refrigerated. Once opened, it lasts 7-10 days in the fridge. Freezing can extend the shelf life for 3-4 months.

But remember, dates are simply guidelines for freshness. Be sure to rely on your senses too. If your almond milk smells or looks "off," err on the side of caution and throw it out! With proper storage and handling, almond milk can stay deliciously fresh and safe to drink.