How Long Does Oat Milk Last? Storage Tips and Expiration Guide

Oat milk has rapidly become one of the most popular plant-based milk alternatives, beloved for its creamy texture, nutritional benefits, and eco-friendliness. However, like all perishable products, oat milk has a limited shelf life. Knowing how long it lasts and how to store it properly is essential for both taste and safety. This guide will explain how long oat milk lasts, how to store it effectively, and how to tell if it has gone bad.

Types of Oat Milk and Their Shelf Life

Before diving into how long oat milk lasts, it’s essential to differentiate between the different types of oat milk you might encounter.

Store-Bought Oat Milk

1. Unopened Shelf-Stable Oat Milk
   Shelf-stable oat milk is typically sold in cartons that do not need refrigeration until opened. Thanks to its Tetra Pak packaging, it can last between 6 to 12 months when stored in a cool, dry pantry. These cartons are vacuum-sealed and ultra-pasteurized to keep the oat milk fresh for long periods. Always check the expiration date on the packaging for specific details.
2. Refrigerated Oat Milk
   Refrigerated oat milk, on the other hand, has a much shorter shelf life, even if it is unopened. Typically, it lasts 7 to 10 days past the manufacturing date if kept cold at all times. Be sure to store it in the refrigerator immediately after purchase and pay attention to the “best by” date.

Homemade Oat Milk

Homemade oat milk has the shortest shelf life due to the lack of preservatives and pasteurization. It usually lasts 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. If you’re making your own oat milk at home, it’s essential to consume it quickly and store it in an airtight container to maximize freshness.

How Long Does Oat Milk Last After Opening?

Once opened, oat milk – whether store-bought or homemade – must be refrigerated and consumed relatively quickly to avoid spoilage.

• Shelf-Stable Oat Milk: Once a carton of shelf-stable oat milk is opened, it must be refrigerated and will last for 7 to 10 days.
• Refrigerated Oat Milk: After opening, refrigerated oat milk should be consumed within 5 to 7 days for the best flavor and safety.

Homemade oat milk, which lacks preservatives, should be used within 3 to 5 days after making it, ensuring you consume it while it’s still fresh.

Signs That Oat Milk Has Gone Bad

Not sure if your oat milk is still safe to drink? Here are some telltale signs that your oat milk has gone bad:

1. Smell: Spoiled oat milk will emit a sour or off smell, similar to how cow’s milk turns sour when it’s gone bad. Always give it a sniff before pouring.
2. Texture: Fresh oat milk is smooth, but spoiled oat milk may have lumps, curdling, or a separated consistency.
3. Taste: If you take a sip and notice a sour or strange flavor, it’s best to throw it out.
4. Color: Spoiled oat milk may have a yellowish or greyish tint, as opposed to its usual creamy white color.

If any of these signs are present, it’s time to toss the oat milk to avoid foodborne illness.

Best Practices for Storing Oat Milk

How you store oat milk can significantly affect how long it stays fresh. Here are some essential tips:

Refrigerating Oat Milk

Always refrigerate oat milk as soon as it’s opened. Even shelf-stable varieties must be kept cold once their seal is broken. Here’s how to do it right:

• Store it in the back of the fridge, where the temperature is the coldest.
• Keep it in its original container if possible, as it’s designed to keep the milk fresher for longer.
• Avoid leaving oat milk out at room temperature for more than two hours.

Freezing Oat Milk

Yes, you can freeze oat milk! However, freezing can cause the texture to change, resulting in a grainy consistency when thawed. To freeze oat milk:

• Pour it into an airtight container, leaving room at the top for expansion.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of how long it’s been frozen.
• Thaw frozen oat milk in the refrigerator, then give it a good shake before use to help blend any separation.

Frozen oat milk can last up to 6 months, but be aware of the textural changes that might occur.

Maximizing Oat Milk’s Shelf Life

To get the most out of your oat milk and prevent it from spoiling too soon, follow these tips:

1. Use Clean Utensils

Whenever you pour oat milk or use it in recipes, make sure the utensils and containers you use are clean. Contaminating the oat milk with bacteria from dirty utensils can cause it to spoil more quickly.

2. Transfer to Airtight Containers

If you have leftover oat milk, especially homemade versions, transferring it to an airtight container can help preserve its freshness. Airtight containers minimize exposure to air, which helps prevent spoilage.

3. Monitor Expiry Dates

Pay attention to the expiration date on store-bought oat milk. Try to consume the milk before this date for the best quality and taste. Once opened, keep track of how long it has been in your fridge and follow the recommended consumption window.

How to Extend the Shelf Life of Oat Milk

If you’re hoping to make your oat milk last as long as possible, there are a few more techniques to consider:

1. Use Smaller Containers: Pour portions of oat milk into smaller containers. This minimizes the amount of air exposure each time you open the container.
2. Keep It Cold: Ensure your fridge stays at or below 40°F to help preserve oat milk.
3. Shake It Well: Always shake oat milk before use to ensure it’s well-mixed. Separation of ingredients is natural but doesn’t necessarily mean it’s spoiled.

Conclusion

The shelf life of oat milk depends on the type you’re using and how it’s stored. While unopened, shelf-stable oat milk can last several months, refrigerated and homemade varieties have a much shorter lifespan. Once opened, oat milk should be consumed within 5 to 10 days and stored in the refrigerator at all times. By following proper storage practices, using clean utensils, and paying attention to the signs of spoilage, you can ensure that your oat milk stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.