All About Almond milk
Your complete guide to almond milk - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Almond milk Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for almond milk in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
Unopened, Shelf-Stable (Pantry)6-12 months past 'best by' date
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging carton, leaks, unusual odors emanating from the packaging, visible damage to the carton or seal.
How to Check
Visually inspect the packaging for any swelling, dents, or leaks. Check the 'best by' or 'use by' date. If the carton appears compromised, discard it.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight or heat sources to maintain optimal quality. The 'best by' date primarily indicates quality, not safety, for unopened shelf-stable products, but severe packaging damage can compromise safety.
Opened, Shelf-Stable (Refrigerator)7-10 days
Signs of Spoilage
Sour, rancid, or 'off' smell; thickened, lumpy, or curdled texture; discoloration (e.g., yellowish or grayish tint); visible mold growth.
How to Check
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Smell Test: Open the carton and take a sniff. A distinct sour or unpleasant odor is the most reliable indicator.
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Visual Inspection: Pour a small amount into a clear glass. Look for unusual separation that doesn't re-mix with a good shake, lumps, or any color changes.
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Texture Test: Observe if it pours thicker than usual or has a slimy consistency. Safety Warning: If any spoilage signs are present, discard immediately. Do NOT taste.
Storage Tips
Always reseal the carton tightly after each use. Return to the refrigerator promptly. Avoid drinking directly from the carton, as this can introduce bacteria and accelerate spoilage.
Unopened, Refrigerated (Refrigerator)Until 'best by' or 'use by' date (typically 1-2 months from purchase)
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging carton (rare), leaks, or an unusual smell emanating from the sealed container (less common before the date).
How to Check
Check the 'best by' or 'use by' date on the package. Visually inspect the carton for any damage or swelling. If the date has passed or packaging is compromised, proceed with caution upon opening.
Storage Tips
Store in the main body of the refrigerator, not the door, as the door frequently experiences temperature fluctuations. Ensure the refrigerator temperature is set at or below 40°F (4°C).
Opened, Refrigerated (Refrigerator)7-10 days
Signs of Spoilage
Sour, fermented, or 'off' smell; thickened, slimy, or curdled texture; unusual separation that won't mix back in; discoloration; visible mold.
How to Check
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Smell Test: This is your primary defense. A sour or unpleasant aroma is a strong indicator of spoilage.
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Visual Inspection: Pour a small amount into a clear glass. Look for lumps, stringiness, or any color that isn't its usual white/off-white.
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Texture Test: Note if it feels unusually thick or slimy when pouring. Safety Warning: If any of these signs are present, discard the almond milk immediately. Do NOT taste, as even a small sip of spoiled product can cause illness.
Storage Tips
Similar to opened shelf-stable, keep tightly sealed and refrigerate promptly after each use. Avoid cross-contamination by using clean utensils and not drinking directly from the carton.
Freezer2-4 months
Signs of Spoilage
While frozen, spoilage is unlikely. After thawing, significant texture changes (e.g., graininess, extreme separation, watery consistency) that don't resolve with shaking, or an 'off' smell.
How to Check
Freeze fresh almond milk. After thawing, shake vigorously. If texture remains unpleasantly grainy, watery, or separated, or if an 'off' smell is present, discard. The quality degrades over time in the freezer, so check for freshness after thawing.
Storage Tips
Almond milk can be frozen, but its texture often changes significantly upon thawing, becoming more watery or grainy. It's best used in smoothies, baking, or cooking rather than for drinking straight. Freeze in smaller, airtight containers or ice cube trays, leaving headspace as liquids expand when frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator. Do not refreeze once thawed.