Does oat milk go bad?

news image

Regarding plant-based alternatives, oat milk is a popular choice for its creamy texture and health benefits. However, just like with any food product, it’s important to understand its shelf life and signs of spoilage to ensure proper usage. In this article, Zextrasure will explore the answer to the question, “Does oat milk go bad?” so that you have the most suitable usage.

1. Does oat milk go bad?

The answer to the question "Does oat milk go bad?" is definitely yes. Like many other drinks, oat milk also has a certain shelf life. However, the shelf life of oat milk depends on the type you choose (there are three common types: homemade oat milk, regular oat milk, and long-lasting oat milk (UHT)) and how you store it.

Therefore, there is no definitive conclusion about the exact time frame for each type since their condition may vary. However, in this article, we will provide you with information about the standard shelf life of oat milk.

The answer to the question “Does oat milk go bad if left out” is Yes

2. How fast does oat milk go bad?

A summary table of the shelf life of different types of oat milk in various storage conditions:

Type of Oat Milk	Room Temperature	Refrigerator - Unopened	Refrigerator - Opened	Frozen
Refrigerated Oat Milk	Not recommended	Until the best-by date (likely safe for a couple of weeks past the date if unopened)	7–10 days	Up to 3 months
Shelf-Stable Oat Milk	Safe to use until the expiration date (may still be usable 1–2 weeks past the date if no spoilage is detected)	~1–2 months past the printed best-by date	7–10 days	Up to 3 month
Homemade Oat Milk	Best consumed within 3 hours	Not recommended	5–7 days	Up to 3 month

Note: Most types of milk, including UHT sterilized milk, will spoil if left at room temperature for more than 3 hours.

If you're wondering, "Does oat milk go bad?", the answer is definitely yes, but the timeline for spoilage depends on the type of oat milk you have. Here's a detailed explanation based on storage temperatures:

At Room Temperature

Shelf-Stable Oat Milk: This type is designed to last longer at room temperature due to its UHT (Ultra-High Temperature) sterilization process. It can typically be stored unopened until the expiration date, provided it is kept in a cool, dry place.
Refrigerated Oat Milk: This type is not meant to be stored at room temperature for more than 2–3 hours. Leaving it out for longer increases the risk of spoilage.
Homemade Oat Milk: Since it lacks preservatives and sterilization, homemade oat milk should not be kept at room temperature. It is best consumed immediately after preparation or refrigeration.

Homemade oat milk should not be kept at room temperature

In the Refrigerator

Shelf-Stable Oat Milk (Opened): Once opened, it must be refrigerated and consumed within 7–10 days.
Refrigerated Oat Milk (Unopened): This should be stored in the fridge until the best-by date. If unopened, it may remain safe for a week or two past this date but should be checked for spoilage.
Homemade Oat Milk: It can stay fresh for 5–7 days in the fridge when kept in an airtight container.

When Frozen

Shelf-Stable or Refrigerated Oat Milk: Freezing is an option, and oat milk can typically last up to 3 months in the freezer. However, freezing often causes texture changes (separation or graininess), so thawed oat milk is better suited for cooking than drinking.
Homemade Oat Milk: Homemade oat milk can also be frozen for up to 3 months, but like store-bought oat milk, its texture may change after thawing.

Freezing oat milk can alter its texture

See other:

3. When does oat milk go bad?

Now that you have the answer to the question “Does oat milk go bad?”, you may be wondering how to tell if your oat milk has spoiled. Here are some signs to help you identify when your oat milk is starting to go bad.

Smell: If the milk smells sour, rancid, or different from usual, be cautious as it may have gone bad.
Taste: If the milk tastes sour, bitter, or different from its usual flavor, it’s a clear sign that it has spoiled.
Color: Oat milk is usually off-white or creamy. If it turns yellowish, or gray, or shows any noticeable discoloration, it’s no longer safe to use.
Texture: Spoiled oat milk may separate, become thick, or develop clumps that won’t blend even after shaking.
Expiration date: If the milk is past its expiration date or has been open for more than 7–10 days (store-bought oat milk) or 5–7 days (homemade oat milk), it’s likely spoiled.

You can tell if oat milk has gone bad by simply smelling it or observing its texture

4. FAQs

What happens if you drink expired oat milk?
Drinking expired oat milk can lead to digestive discomfort, such as an upset stomach, nausea, or even food poisoning if the milk is significantly spoiled. Spoiled oat milk may contain harmful bacteria, especially if it's been left out at room temperature for too long.

Does oat milk creamer go bad?
Oat milk creamer can go bad. Like regular oat milk, it has a shelf life, and once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within 7–10 days. Signs that oat milk creamer has gone bad include a sour smell, or taste, curdling, or unusual texture.

Can you freeze oat milk?
You can freeze oat milk. But you need to note that freezing can cause the texture to change. While it’s safe to consume after freezing, it's best used in cooking or baking rather than drinking. To freeze, store it in an airtight container, leaving room for expansion, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

In conclusion, the answer to the question “Does oat milk go bad?” is yes, and the time it takes to spoil depends on the storage method and the type of oat milk you have. However, this timeline is only a general guideline, and you should rely on the spoilage signs we’ve outlined above to have appropriate usage