Almond milk has become a popular plant-based milk alternative for many people. It is made from ground almonds and water, often with added vitamins, minerals and sweeteners. Like other dairy milk alternatives, almond milk comes with a printed expiration date on the carton which indicates the date by which the manufacturer recommends consuming it. However, if almond milk is unopened and stored properly, it may stay fresh and safe to drink for some time past the printed date. This article provides detailed information on how to tell if almond milk is still good after the expiration date and how long it can safely be consumed past its date.
What is the expiration date on almond milk?
The expiration date printed on almond milk cartons is known as the “sell by” or “best by” date. This date is provided by the manufacturer and indicates the timeframe during which the unopened almond milk will be at peak quality and flavor. The expiration date is usually about 12-14 days after the packaging date for refrigerated almond milk. For shelf-stable, unopened almond milk stored at room temperature, the expiration date can be many months away. However, it is important to note that the expiration date does not indicate safety or when the milk will spoil. Almond milk can usually be consumed past its printed date, as long as it was properly stored.
How to tell if unopened almond milk is still good after the expiration date
If stored correctly, unopened almond milk can be safe to drink for at least a week after its printed expiration date. Here are some guidelines to help determine if your unopened almond milk is still fresh after the date has passed:
Check the packaging
Inspect the carton closely. Make sure it is not leaking, bloated, swollen or damaged. This could indicate spoilage. Also ensure the cap/seal on the carton is still completely intact.
Give it a sniff
When you open the carton for the first time, give the milk a smell. Fresh almond milk should not have any sour, off or strange odors. It should smell slightly sweet and nutty. Rancid or sour smells indicate the milk has spoiled.
Inspect the consistency
The texture of unspoiled almond milk should be smooth, creamy and homogeneous. Separation of the liquid and solids or any curdling indicates the milk has gone bad.
Check the taste
Take a small sip of the almond milk. It should taste fresh and mild, without any bitter, sour or “off” flavors. Bad almond milk will not taste pleasant.
Watch for mold
Carefully examine the inside of the carton and surface of the milk for any signs of mold growth like spots, fuzz or colors. This means the milk is no longer safe to consume.
How long can you safely drink almond milk after the sell by date?
If properly stored, here is how long almond milk can generally last and remain consumable after its sell by date:
Unopened refrigerated almond milk
Refrigerated, unopened almond milk can stay fresh for 7-10 days past the printed expiration date on the package when stored at temperatures of 40°F or below. The colder the storage temperature, the longer the shelf life. If unopened and refrigerated, almond milk can be used for up to 2 weeks past the sell by date before quality starts to decrease.
Unopened shelf-stable almond milk
Commercially packaged, shelf-stable almond milk that is unopened can stay safe many months to even over a year past the printed expiration date. Shelf-stable almond milk is ultrapasteurized and specially packaged to be shelf-stable for prolonged periods until opened. An unopened shelf-stable carton that has been continuously stored in a cool, dry pantry can usually last 6-12 months past its sell by date before quality declines.
Opened refrigerated almond milk
Once opened, refrigerated almond milk will generally stay fresh for 7-10 days past its printed date if kept at proper refrigerator temps below 40°F. Make sure to keep it as cold as possible. Avoid keeping the opened carton in the refrigerator door where the temperature fluctuates. Use clean utensils and cups to prevent bacterial contamination each time you take some out. Discard any that smells or tastes off.
Opened shelf-stable almond milk
Similar to other dairy milk alternatives, opened shelf-stable almond milk should be used within 7-10 days. Refrigerating after opening can help maximize its usable shelf life. Consume any remainder within 10 days and discard any that develops off odors, tastes or appearance.
How to properly store almond milk to maximize freshness
Proper storage, both unopened and opened, is key to extending the shelf life of almond milk and keeping it safe after the sell by date. Here are some storage guidelines:
Unopened almond milk
– Store unopened almond milk cartons in the back of the refrigerator, not in the door. The coldest spot in the fridge helps preserve quality and freshness for longest.
– Check that your refrigerator temperature is set to 40°F or below. Use a refrigerator thermometer to verify.
– For shelf-stable varieties, store unopened cartons in a cool, dry pantry away from direct heat or sunlight until ready to use.
– Avoid storing almond milk, opened or closed, near strong odor-emitting foods as almond milk can absorb other scents.
Opened almond milk
– Once opened, transfer refrigerated almond milk to an airtight container if not finishing quickly. This prevents absorption of fridge odors.
– Make sure opened cartons are always properly sealed after each use.
– Store opened containers towards the front of the fridge where temperatures are colder.
– Do not keep opened almond milk on refrigerator door shelves.
– Avoid returning unused milk to original container as it can introduce bacteria. Instead, pour only needed amounts.
– Use clean utensils each time when removing almond milk from container to prevent cross-contamination.
Signs that almond milk has gone bad
While almond milk can often be consumed past its printed expiration date, there are clear signs that indicate when it is no longer fresh or safe to drink. Watch for these common indicators of spoiled almond milk:
– Sour, off odor
– Curdled texture or watery separation
– Mold growth in carton or milk
– Bitter, sour or unpleasant taste
– Swollen, leaking or damaged packaging
– Discoloration or graying of white milk
If you notice your almond milk exhibits any of these characteristics, it is best to discard it. Consuming spoiled milk can potentially lead to food poisoning and stomach issues. When in doubt, remember the general guideline – if your milk smells, looks or tastes off, err on the side of caution and throw it out.
Can spoiled almond milk make you sick?
Yes, consuming almond milk after it has truly spoiled can lead to illness in some cases. Here are some potential risks of drinking bad almond milk:
– Food poisoning – Spoiled milk can harbor dangerous bacteria like salmonella, E. coli, staphylococcus aureus, listeria or bacillus cereus. Consuming milk contaminated with these bugs can cause severe food poisoning symptoms.
– Gastrointestinal issues – The bacteria and microbial growth in bad milk can irritate the digestive tract and provoke symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps.
– Mold exposure – Some dangerous molds like aflatoxin can grow in spoiled milk and ingesting them can have toxic effects.
The risks are highest for people with compromised immunity, pregnant women, elderly and young children. Healthy adults may avoid adverse effects from small volumes of spoiled milk, but it is best not to take risks with bad almond milk. If you accidentally drank milk past its prime, monitor yourself closely for any gastrointestinal issues or flu-like symptoms. See a doctor if you have concerns.
Can you save or refresh almond milk past its expiration date?
It is generally not recommended to try to save or refresh almond milk that has clearly expired or spoiled. Once milk has turned or gone bad, there is no way to make it safe to drink again. Any attempts to freshen up old milk via blending, freezing or cooking will not eliminate the bacteria growth and potential health risks. For your own safety, it is advisable to simply discard almond milk that is past its prime according to these guidelines:
– Throw out any milk that is more than 2 weeks past its printed expiration date. At this point, the risk of spoilage and bacterial contamination is very high.
– Discard immediately if the milk has developed off odors, separation, or shows any mold or curdling. Do not taste test suspicious milk.
– Do not try to salvage milk stored above 40°F for prolonged periods as bacteria proliferate quickly at higher temps.
– Be wary of milk that was left out of refrigeration for over 2 hours at any point. Toxic germs can start multiplying rapidly.
– Do not consume milk from damaged or leaking containers where safety is compromised.
– Do not freeze, boil, puree or process bad milk in hopes of making it potable again. These techniques do not remove toxins from spoiled milk.
Ultimately, if your almond milk shows any signs of spoilage or extreme age, it is not worth the risk. Always err on the side of caution and discard expired or questionable milk instead of trying to find creative ways to rescue it.
FAQs
Is thicker almond milk safe to drink after the expiration date?
Thicker varieties of almond milk, like almond milk creamers, may have slightly longer shelf life unopened than regular milk due to higher nut content and added stabilizers. But once opened, both thicker and regular almond milk should be discarded within 7-10 days. Do not consume any that smells, looks or tastes off.
Can you freeze almond milk after the sell by date?
Freezing does not “pause” the natural spoilage process with dairy or plant-based milks. Frozen and thawed milk is unlikely to taste good. It is best to freeze almond milk by its sell by date for optimal flavor and texture. Only freeze unopened cartons.
Is it safe to cook or bake with expired almond milk?
Baking or cooking with almond milk a few days past its expiration is generally safe. The heat from baking can destroy many bacteria. However, the texture, flavor and leavening ability of the milk will be diminished so avoid using extra-expired milk. Always inspect and smell milk first. Discard if any curdling, off smells or mold is present before using.
How can you tell if shelf-stable almond milk is expired?
Unopened shelf-stable milk can last 6-12 months past its printed sell by date if stored properly in a cool, dry pantry. Check for swelling, dents, or damage to containers before opening. Once opened, it should be used within 10 days and discarded if any smell or texture changes arise.
Does expired almond milk smell bad?
Yes, spoiled almond milk gives off distinct sour, unpleasant odors. Rancid or off smells indicate the milk has gone bad and should be discarded. Fresh almond milk has a slight natural sweetness and nuttiness. Any pungent or acidic scents mean it is no longer consumable.
The Bottom Line
The shelf life of almond milk depends greatly on proper storage techniques. Unopened, refrigerated almond milk typically stays fresh for 1-2 weeks past its printed expiration date. Once opened, it will keep for 7-10 days in the fridge. Shelf-stable milk can last months past its date when unopened. No matter what, if your milk exhibits foul odors, changes texture, or shows any mold – it is time to throw it out. Consuming truly spoiled milk can potentially lead to foodborne illness, so it is better to be safe than sorry if your milk seems old. Use your best judgment, adhere to the recommended timelines, and monitor your milk closely for any signs of spoilage.
