How long does oat milk last?
Oat milk has become a popular plant-based alternative to dairy milk, loved for its creamy texture and natural sweetness. Whether you're using it in your morning coffee, in baking, or enjoying it straight from the carton, understanding the shelf life of oat milk is essential to avoid spoilage and waste. In this article, Zextrasure will reveal the shelf life of oat milk, and answer the question, “How long does oat milk last?”, and provide tips on storage, signs of spoilage.
1. What is oat milk?
Before answering the question “How long does oat milk last?” Let's first understand what oat milk is. Oat milk is a plant-based beverage made by blending oats with water and straining the mixture to remove the solid pieces. The resulting liquid is creamy, nutrient-rich, and an excellent option for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. With its growing popularity, many brands offer oat milk in various flavors and formulations, so it is a versatile addition to your diet.
Oat milk has quickly become a popular choice among plant-based milks due to its unique nutritional profile and versatility. Here's a deeper look at the benefits:
- Nutritional benefits: One cup (240 ml) of unsweetened oat milk contains 120 kcal, 3 grams of protein, and 16 grams of carbs. It’s also fortified with essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, calcium, and vitamin D, making it a great choice for those looking to enhance their diet.
- Lactose-free and dairy-free: Oat milk is naturally lactose-free, making it an excellent option for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. It’s also suitable for vegans, ensuring no animal products are used.
- Help with heart health: Oat milk contains beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber known to lower cholesterol levels, which can help improve overall heart health.
Oat milk is a nutrient-dense dairy alternative ideal for lactose intolerance
2. How long does oat milk last?
The answer to “How long does oat milk last?” varies depending on the type and whether the carton is opened or not. Here’s a breakdown:
Unopened Store-Bought Oat Milk:
- Shelf-Stable Oat Milk: This type of oat milk can last between 6 to 12 months when unrefrigerated. The long shelf life is due to pasteurization and airtight packaging, which prevent bacterial growth.
- Refrigerated Oat Milk: Unopened refrigerated oat milk typically lasts about 7 to 10 days past its printed expiration date, provided it's kept properly refrigerated. This answers the question “How long does oat milk last in the fridge?”
How long does oat milk last unrefrigerated?
Opened Store-Bought Oat Milk:
- Opened Shelf-Stable Oat Milk: How long does oat milk last after opening? After opening, shelf-stable oat milk should be refrigerated and consumed within 7 to 10 days to ensure freshness.
- Opened Refrigerated Oat Milk: How long does oat milk last once opened? Once opened, refrigerated oat milk should be used within 7 to 10 days. Keeping it in a consistently cold environment will extend its freshness.
Opened Store-Bought Oat Milk should be consumed within 7 to 10 days in the fridge
Homemade Oat Milk
Homemade oat milk doesn’t contain preservatives like store-bought versions, so it has a much shorter shelf life, typically 3 to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
In conclusion, understanding “How long can oat milk sit out?” is essential to maintaining its quality and safety. Shelf-stable oat milk can remain unrefrigerated for up to 12 months if unopened. Once opened, both shelf-stable and refrigerated oat milk should be used within 7 to 10 days and they should be kept cold. Homemade oat milk without preservatives should be consumed within 3 to 5 days.
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3. How can you tell if oat milk has gone bad?
Knowing “How long does oat milk last?” is essential, but it’s equally important to tell when it has spoiled. Here are some signs that oat milk may be safe for consumers:
How to know when oat milk is bad
- Sour smell: Fresh oat milk has a neutral, slightly sweet smell. If it smells sour or off, it's a clear sign that it has spoiled.
- Changes in texture: If the oat milk becomes lumpy, curdled, or slimy, it's no longer safe to consume. Fresh oat milk should have a smooth and creamy texture.
- Sour taste: If the smell and texture seem fine but you’re still unsure, taste a small amount. If the oat milk tastes sour or bitter, discard it.
- Mold: Visible mold or discoloration around the container or its opening indicates that the oat milk has gone bad.
4. How to properly store oat milk
Proper storage can significantly extend the shelf life of oat milk. Here are some storage tips to keep oat milk fresh for as long as possible:
- Refrigeration: Always store oat milk in the refrigerator at temperatures below 40°F (4°C). This helps slow bacterial growth and keeps the milk safe for consumption.
- Avoid temperature fluctuations: Keep oat milk in the fridge and avoid leaving it out for extended periods. Consistent refrigeration ensures it stays fresh for longer.
- Store in an airtight container: Exposure to air accelerates spoilage, so always store oat milk in an airtight container. This is especially important for homemade oat milk.
- Keep it away from light: Light can degrade oat milk’s nutrients and hasten spoilage. Store it in a cool, dark place, and transfer it to an opaque container if needed.
Knowing the answer to “How long does oat milk last?” is essential knowledge for oat milk enthusiasts. Understanding the variations between unopened and opened oat milk, proper storage practices, and spoilage signs helps you get the best use from each purchase and reduce waste.
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