How Long Oat Milk Is Safe To Drink After Opening

Once oat milk is opened, its shelf life depends on several factors, including storage conditions and whether it is homemade or store-bought. Typically, store-bought oat milk can be consumed safely for about 7 to 10 days after opening, provided it is kept refrigerated at all times. It's important to keep the container sealed tightly to prevent exposure to air and contaminants, which can hasten spoilage. Homemade oat milk, on the other hand, usually has a shorter lifespan and should be consumed within 4 to 5 days due to the absence of preservatives found in commercial versions. To determine if oat milk is still safe to drink, look for signs of spoilage such as an off smell, changes in texture, or an unusual taste. Separation is normal in oat milk, so shaking the container before use is recommended, but any significant changes in consistency might indicate spoilage. As with any perishable product, it's essential to rely on your senses and judgment when assessing oat milk's freshness. Ensuring proper storage by keeping it refrigerated and following the recommended timeframe for consumption will help maintain its quality and safety.
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Easy hacks for wasting less oat milk, and keeping yours good for longer

Since oat milk has a relatively short shelf life, if you frequently find yourself discarding cartons, there are a few strategies to minimize waste. If you only use small amounts, such as in your morning oat milk chai latte, consider buying an oat milk barista blend or a creamer. These products usually come in smaller containers that are easier to finish quickly compared to a large carton.

If you have an open carton of oat milk in the fridge that you know won’t last much longer, try freezing it! Oat-based milks and creams freeze well in a freezer-safe container and can be thawed for later use. Just keep in mind that the texture may separate and become less smooth after freezing, so it’s best to use it in baked goods rather than in your latte, where texture differences would be more noticeable.

When it comes to expiration dates, safety should always be your top priority. Even if your milk doesn’t show obvious signs of spoilage, such as changes in smell, taste, or texture, if it has been open for more than a week, it’s safer to discard it and start with a fresh carton. Even better, consider making your own barista-quality oat milk beverage at home!

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