Can Oat Milk Go Bad? What You MUST Know!

Oat milk is a non-dairy milk alternative that is made from a blend of whole oats and water.

It is a creamy, smooth, and nutritious drink that is an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber.

Oat milk has rapidly grown in popularity in recent years, primarily due to the rise of veganism, lactose intolerance, and environmental concerns.

People are increasingly seeking alternative milk sources that are both healthy and sustainable.

The purpose of this article is to explore the shelf life of oat milk, how to store it properly, how to identify if it has gone bad, and if spoiled oat milk can make you sick.

The aim is to provide a comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions about consuming oat milk and to ensure that it remains safe for consumption.

Read Also:

• What To Eat With Milk at Night – 15 Easy Options
• What Does Oat Milk Taste Like in Coffee?

Can Oat Milk Go Bad?

Shelf Life of Oat Milk

The shelf life of oat milk varies, but it is typically between 7-10 days if stored correctly in the refrigerator.

Nevertheless, it is crucial to note that the shelf life of oat milk can be significantly impacted by a range of factors, including storage temperature and exposure to light and air.

Factors Affecting the Shelf Life of Oat Milk

• Storage Temperature: The storage temperature of oat milk is critical to its shelf life. Oat milk should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of between 33°F to 40°F to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and to extend its shelf life.
• Exposure to Light and Air: Oat milk should be stored in an airtight container to prevent the oxidation of its nutrients, which can reduce its shelf life. Exposure to light can also break down the essential vitamins and minerals in oat milk and contribute to spoilage.
• Signs of Spoilage in Oat Milk: Some of the signs that indicate that oat milk has gone bad include an off taste, a sour smell, curdling, and the separation of solids and liquids. These are clear indications that the oat milk has been contaminated with harmful bacteria, and it is best to dispose of it immediately.

How Long Can Oat Milk Sit Out?

• Safe Temperature Range for Oat Milk: The safe temperature range for oat milk is between 33°F to 40°F, which is the temperature range of a properly functioning refrigerator. When oat milk is left out of the refrigerator, it is susceptible to spoilage and the growth of harmful bacteria, which can make it unsafe for consumption.
• Time Limit for Oat Milk to Sit Out: According to food safety guidelines, oat milk should not sit out for more than 2 hours at room temperature. Beyond this time frame, the risk of spoilage and bacterial growth increases, and it becomes increasingly likely that the oat milk will become unsafe for consumption.

Factors Affecting the Time Limit for Oat Milk to Sit Out

• Room Temperature: The room temperature can significantly impact the time limit for oat milk to sit out. Higher temperatures can cause the oat milk to spoil faster, while cooler temperatures can extend its shelf life.
• Humidity Level: The humidity level can also play a role in the time limit for oat milk to sit out. High humidity levels can create a conducive environment for the growth of harmful bacteria, while low humidity levels can reduce the risk of spoilage.

It is crucial to note that the 2-hour time limit for oat milk to sit out is a general guideline and may vary depending on the specific conditions of the environment.

Proper Storage of Oat Milk

• Ideal Storage Temperature: To preserve the quality and safety of oat milk, it should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 33°F to 40°F. This temperature range will help to slow down the growth of harmful bacteria and prevent spoilage.
• Proper Storage Container: Oat milk should be stored in a food-grade, airtight container to prevent oxidation and to maintain its freshness. Glass containers and food-grade plastic containers are ideal for storing oat milk.
• Importance of Keeping Oat Milk Refrigerated: Keeping oat milk refrigerated is essential for maintaining its safety and quality. When oat milk is left at room temperature, it is susceptible to spoilage and the growth of harmful bacteria, which can make it unsafe for consumption.
• Tips for Prolonging the Shelf Life of Oat Milk: To prolong the shelf life of oat milk, it is essential to store it in the refrigerator at the correct temperature and in an airtight container. Additionally, it is recommended to consume oat milk before the expiration date and to avoid storing it near sources of heat or light, which can reduce its shelf life.

Can Spoiled Oat Milk Make You Sick?

• Bacteria Growth in Spoiled Oat Milk: When oat milk is left at room temperature or is stored improperly, it can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli. These bacteria can grow rapidly and make the oat milk unsafe for consumption.
• Symptoms of Food Poisoning from Spoiled Oat Milk: Consuming spoiled oat milk can cause symptoms of food poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fever. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may appear within hours of consuming the spoiled oat milk.
• Prevention of Food Poisoning from Spoiled Oat Milk: To prevent food poisoning from spoiled oat milk, it is essential to store it correctly and to consume it before the expiration date. Additionally, it is important to check the oat milk for signs of spoilage and to discard it if it has a sour or rancid odor or if its texture or appearance has changed. Proper hand hygiene and food handling practices can also help to reduce the risk of food poisoning from spoiled oat milk.

How to Tell if Oat Milk is Bad

• Physical Appearance of Spoiled Oat Milk: Spoiled oat milk may have a curdled or separated appearance, with a thick and clumpy texture. It may also have an off-color or a discolored appearance, indicating that it has gone bad.
• Smell of Spoiled Oat Milk: Spoiled oat milk may have a sour or rancid odor, which is an indication that it has gone bad. The smell may be strong and distinct, and it can indicate the presence of harmful bacteria.
• Taste Test for Spoiled Oat Milk: To determine if oat milk has gone bad, it can be tested for taste. If the oat milk has a sour, rancid, or off flavor, it is likely that it has gone bad and should be discarded. It is important to note that tasting spoiled oat milk can be dangerous and may cause food poisoning. If there is any doubt about the safety of the oat milk, it should be discarded.

Conclusion

In this article, we have discussed the shelf life and proper storage of oat milk, as well as the dangers of consuming spoiled oat milk.

We have also outlined the signs of spoilage and how to determine if oat milk has gone bad.

It is important to be mindful of the shelf life and proper storage of oat milk, as consuming spoiled oat milk can cause food poisoning and other health risks.

By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your oat milk remains fresh and safe for consumption.

Recommendations for Oat Milk Consumption

To maximize the shelf life and safety of oat milk, it is recommended to store it in the refrigerator at a temperature between 32°F and 39°F.

It is also recommended to check the expiration date and to discard the oat milk if it has passed its expiration date or if there are signs of spoilage.

Finally, it is important to follow proper hand hygiene and food handling practices to reduce the risk of food poisoning from spoiled oat milk.