Almond milk is a popular plant-based milk consumed widely across the world. Its composition requires different storage and refrigeration than dairy milk. Many people prefer almond milk as a dairy alternative, but there’s one question that comes to mind – Does almond milk have to be refrigerated, and how long can it last? The answer is yes; almond milk must be refrigerated, and its shelf life varies based on the method of preparation, packaging, and storage.
Types of Almond Milk
There are three types of almond milk available in the market.
- Homemade almond milk
- Refrigerated almond milk
- Shelf-stable almond milk
Knowing the differences between these milk types can help you know about their shelf life and whether to refrigerate your product.
Homemade Almond Milk
Homemade almond milk is made fresh at our home, and it stays for very few days. Blend raw almonds with water and strain the pulp, while others opt for an almond milk base like JOI. Homemade almonds are the most additive-free option we can get, and they can stay for about 3-5 days when refrigerated.
Refrigerated Store-Bought Almond Milk
Refrigerated store-bought almond milk, which almond milk manufacturers make, is available at online stores or grocery stores. This almond milk usually lasts longer than homemade almond milk and may or may not contain additives. It should be refrigerated to improve its shelf life and usually lasts 7-10 days, depending on the brand.
Shelf-Stable Almond Milk
In a dry, cold environment, shelf-stable almond milk can be consumed for up to a year without refrigeration. It is packed in sterile containers and tightly sealed to prevent the growth of bacteria or other microorganisms. After it is opened, shelf-stable almond milk can be stored for around 7 to 10 days and must be refrigerated.
Shelf Life of Almond Milk
The type of almond milk determines how long it can be stored. It also depends on the manufacturer and the method by which it is produced.
Almond milk usually has to be refrigerated as soon as it is opened and stays for:
- 5 days for homemade almond milk
- 7 to 10 days for store-bought and opened shelf-stable milk
- Up to the expiry date mentioned by the manufacturer for unopened shelf-stable almond milk pack
Almond milk that is shelf-stable and refrigerated has a longer shelf life due to pasteurization, which happens before packing. Many brands of refrigerated almond milk use extended shelf-life methods to increase the product’s shelf life beyond 30 days. The traditional high-temperature, short-time HTST, and UHT methods make the product safe. Still, they can change its flavor, texture, and color. This particular almond milk has a longer shelf life of up to six months when unopened.
Storage of Almond Milk
The refrigeration and storage of almond milk depends on its preparation and packaging.
Homemade Almond Milk Storage: Homemade almond milk is unpasteurized and should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated at all times. The shelf life can be up to 3-5 days, depending on the type and quality of the almonds we use.
Storage of Shelf-stable and Refrigerated Almond Milk: Shelf-stable almond milk can be stored for up to ten days. Since some varieties of almond milk don’t contain preservatives, you should store them in the refrigerator as soon as you open them to keep them fresh. Once partially opened, almond milk should be refrigerated and used within seven days. Almond milk in unopened packages lasts up to four weeks at room temperature after the expiration date. Because they are sterilized throughout the production process, they have an extended shelf life. Additionally, hygienic containers are used in their packing to increase their shelf life.
Storage of Frozen Almond Milk: Almond milk that has been frozen can have a longer shelf life. However, it is not advised because thawing the milk changes its nutritional value and composition. Frozen almond milk goes well in recipes. You should check for signs of spoiling before taking that has been opened for ten days.
Signs of Spoiled Almond Milk
An open carton of almond milk may usually be left outside the refrigerator for several hours without any spoilage. But after leaving it on the table for some time, you need to ensure it’s still good. In addition, you can continue to use your almond milk even after the expiry date. But you should be cautious and look for any spoilage. Non-dairy milk can give you very few hints compared to dairy milk. There are some indicators of the spoilage of almond milk.
- When you identify an odd odor from the milk while using it, throw it away.
- The smell is not as nutty or fresh.
- It’s time to get a new pack of almond milk if it tastes sour and starts clumping or discoloring.
- Look for the almond milk’s texture. The milk has likely gone bad if the texture is thicker than usual. A puffed-up pack can also be a result of spoiled milk.
How Can You Make Almond Milk Last Longer?
You can increase the shelf life of your almond milk by storing it correctly. This involves refrigerating the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The FDA recommends that almond milk be stored at or below 40°F for food safety purposes. Check the refrigerator temperature frequently to make sure your refrigerator maintains the proper temperature for your almond milk.
Apart from the temperature, you can improve the shelf-life of almond milk by:
- Store homemade almond milk in a clean glass jar with a tight seal.
- Look for any leaks or damages on the pack of almond milk.
- Do not store the almond milk on the front side of the fridge because the temperature will change due to the continuous opening and closing of the door. Store in the back of the fridge.
- Never drink directly from the carton, as this introduces additional bacteria into the product.
- Avoid drinking directly from the carton to avoid contamination by additional bacteria.
Conclusion
Almond milk is delicious and nourishing. It has numerous health benefits, including strengthening bones and reducing the risk of heart disease. It is non-dairy and high in vitamin E. For people who are lactose, almond milk is the best option. But you must ensure that your almond milk is properly stored. It can last longer if hygienic precautions and proper storage methods are followed.