What happens if you drink expired almond milk? Much like the cow’s milk and other alternative milk, the almond milk also goes bad. This is the reason why it is important to understand the concept of shelf life and the best manner to store it. Let’s read on for everything we need to know.
Whether you opt for a vegan or plant-based lifestyle, suffer from an allergy, wish to lower your cholesterol, or just enjoy the taste, there is a lot to like about almond milk. It is prepared by blending almonds with water and later straining the mixture to eliminate the nut solids. Almond milk comprises protein, vitamin E, and healthy fats, and most store-bought versions are fortified with vitamins A, D, B2, and B12, all the important nutrients that are also found in cow’s milk. When it comes to taste and texture, almond milk is rich and creamy, along with subtle nutty notes and a slight hint of sweetness. Also, it is versatile, thus great for adding to coffee, blending into smoothies, pouring over cereal, baking with, or drinking just as it is. So you see, you can use it in just about any manner you would use cow’s milk or any alternative milk.
Does almond milk go bad? Yes, it does. Terms like “Sell-by,” “best-by,” “use before,” and other expiration-related dates stated on the packaging can get quite confusing. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), these are the dates that are about quality instead of just safety and are the manufacturer’s assessment of when the milk is at its best. Be it the almond milk or any food product, if stored properly, it can very well be maintained past the date on the packaging. Simply put, how you store your almond milk is a lot more important as compared to the date stated on its bottle or box.
The Packaging dates and shelf-life guidelines are all important to bear in mind; however, when it comes to deciding if the almond milk has turned bad, the main test is how it appears, smells, and tastes.
The homemade versions are generally good for anywhere between 3 to 7 days after they are manufactured. Also, you will be able to tell when things turn a bit funky. This milk will begin to turn clumpy and start to stink. These are the clear signs that it is time to throw it away.
But why does DIY almond milk turn bad quicker than its store-bought brethren? Well, Unlike refrigerated or shelf-stable versions, homemade almond milk does not go through the process of pasteurization; hence, any bacteria discovered in any of the ingredients are not killed. It is also not instantly sealed within a sterilized container; therefore, the oxygen gets in right away to create the perfect breeding ground for more bacteria.
One might also notice that the ingredient separation is a lot more noticeable when it comes to homemade almond milk. However, if it is still fresh, it is advised to give your carton or bottle a quick shake, and this will simply mix your milk right up.
What Happens When Almond Milk Expires?
Is it okay to use expired almond milk? Well, the Packaging dates and the shelf-life guidelines are all important to bear in mind; however, when it comes to deciding if almond milk has turned bad, the main test is how it appears, smells, and tastes.
Let’s start with appearance. Before you peek at the almond milk itself, look at its packaging. If it expands, puffs, or swells, the almond milk may be spoiled. Next, check out the almond milk. Most times, it is possible that you have retained your almond milk for too long. Hence, ensure that there are no black spots. This indicates mold and can mean that your almond milk belongs in the trash.
While the thickness can vary by the brand, most almond milk consists of a consistency much like cow’s milk. The Expired almond milk can also turn thick and clumpy; however, before you throw it away, be sure to shake the container to check if it has just separated. In case you find that the almond milk still has a funky texture, then you need to throw it away.
Speaking of funky, give your almond milk a good sniff. It should smell subtly nutty and mildly sweet. If it has a sour whiff or stinks in some other unappealing way, throw it out.
If the almond milk passes the appearance and odor tests, but you are still worried, then try taking tiny sips. As for the smell, any sour kind or off-flavor is a perfect indication that your almond milk needs to be thrown away.
Reading Labels and Storage Tips
What happens if you drink bad almond milk? You might be wondering, “But what about the almond milk that you buy from the pantry section? That’s not refrigerated!”
This is called shelf-stable almond milk. The prime difference is that it has been ultra-pasteurized and then sealed in special packaging to keep it from spoiling when stored at room temperature. The Shelf-stable cartons make sure that the milk stays sterile and that no bacteria can enter.
You should also know that shelf-stable almond milk is safe to drink for 4 to 6 weeks after the “sell by” or “best buy” date that is listed on the carton after it has not been opened. But once you have opened it, you will need to refrigerate it soon. It can then be kept for around 7 to 10 days.
Once Again, you always need to monitor the milk to ensure that it does not display any signs of turning bad. Also, check for any labels located on the cartons for more specifics on how long they need to last.
Even if it has only been a couple of days instead of the suggested amount of time for freshness, and if you start to discover the following signs, it is most likely time to throw that almond milk:
- Bloated carton. Is the unopened carton looking a little plump and bloated? There’s a good chance it’s gone bad.
- Weird smell. Almond milk usually has a faint nutty smell, but if you notice any unpleasant odors or Eau de sour milk, it’s likely no good.
- Strange appearance. Homemade almond milk can start to separate, and a simple shake-up can bring it back to a normal consistency. But if you start to notice lumps, weird textures, curdling, or a strange consistency that shaking won’t fix, your almond milk has probably gone bad. Throw it out!
- Mold… actual mold. Yup, mold could be growing inside your milk container. If you notice any spots or specks of fungus, chuck the milk ASAP. See tiny black spots in your milk? If it’s homemade, these could be specks of almond skin. However, it’s best not to take any chances and still throw it out.
- Funny taste. Almond milk usually tastes faintly nutty and may be sweetened or flavored, depending on the type or brand you buy. If you notice anything “off” (or even sour) when you take a sip, it’s most likely no longer good.
Common Misconceptions
Does almond milk taste bad when it’s spoiled? Well, take a look at some of the most popular misconceptions about Almond Milk.
So, really, does the almond milk turn bad?
The simple answer is yes. The Almond milk does turn bad, and that applies to all types: shelf-stable, refrigerated, or homemade. The two main contributing aspects to bear in mind are the expiration date and the proper storage. For example, even if you go for shelf-stable almond milk, it needs to be refrigerated after opening it, or it can spoil.
How long almond milk lasts, by type
Let’s check this out:
Shelf-stable, unrefrigerated
Shelf-stable, unrefrigerated almond milk usually takes the longest to expire. It can generally last one to two months when unopened. However, it will vary from brand to brand; hence, just be sure to take a look at the expiration date. Once you have opened the bottle, it is best to consume it within seven to 10 days. And after it has been opened, place it in the refrigerator soon enough.
Alternatives to Expired Almond Milk
In case your almond milk has turned bad, various dairy-free alternatives also include soy milk, rice milk, oat milk, hazelnut milk, and coconut milk. Every milk alternative has its unique taste, texture, and nutritional profile; hence, which one you select depends on your personal preference, as well as what you are searching for and how you plan to use it. If you wish to boost the protein in your morning smoothie a priority, soy milk is a wonderful option. However, if you like the mild nuttiness of almond milk, opt for hazelnut or cashew milk. Likewise, oat milk is usually thicker than other alternative milk, and most people find it frothing up nicely, hence making it a popular choice for coffee lovers. Likewise, Rice milk offers a generally neutral flavor profile that most find appealing, while coconut milk generally tastes distinctly of coconut.
What happens if you drink expired almond milk?: Conclusion
Much like all food, the proper storing of almond milk is the main aspect of maximizing its shelf life. The Homemade almond milk that is stored in the refrigerator can last for about five days. Almond milk that has been bought from the refrigerated section of your market can last in your fridge for around seven to 10 days. The Shelf-stable almond milk can last for one to two months in your pantry and up to 10 days in the fridge once opened. And when it comes to ensuring the freshness of almond milk, the guidelines should remain just that. Instead of simply relying on strict rules or even package dates, you need to trust your senses.
What happens if you drink expired almond milk?: FAQ's
Question 1. How can I tell if almond milk has gone bad?
Answer: The Expired almond milk turns thick and clumpy.
Question 2. Can I still use expired almond milk when cooking or baking?
Answer: Yes, you can.
Question 3. What happens if I accidentally consume expired almond milk?
Answer: If you accidentally consume expired Almond milk, you can suffer from nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or a combination of those symptoms
Question 4. Are there any health risks associated with drinking slightly expired almond Milk?
Answer: Yes, there are.
Question 5. How long does almond milk typically last after opening?
Answer: It can last up to 7 days.
Question 6. Does almond milk taste bad when it's spoiled?
Answer: Yes, it does.
Question 7. How old can you drink almond milk?
Answer: Once the child is one or two years old, they can consume Almond milk.
Question 8. Can expired almond milk cause food poisoning?
Answer: Yes, it can.