Yes, some almond milk is shelf-safe.
Shelf Stability of Almond Milk Explained
Almond milk comes in two main types: shelf-stable and refrigerated. The key difference lies in their packaging and pasteurization methods, affecting how long they can be stored without refrigeration.
Unopened Shelf-Stable Almond Milk
- Shelf life: According to our reference, unopened shelf-stable almond milk will stay good for up to a year. This type of almond milk is processed and packaged in a way that it can be stored at room temperature until opened.
- Storage: This milk is usually found in aseptic packaging like cartons or tetra paks, which help maintain its freshness.
Refrigerated Almond Milk
- Shelf life: On the other hand, refrigerated almond milk has a shorter shelf life, generally good for about a month. It requires refrigeration at all times to prevent spoilage.
- Storage: This type of almond milk is typically found in plastic jugs or cartons in the refrigerated section of grocery stores.
After Opening
Regardless of whether the almond milk was initially shelf-stable or refrigerated, once opened, all almond milk should be used promptly, typically within a week.
Key Takeaways
| Almond Milk Type | Shelf Life (Unopened) | Storage | Shelf Life (Opened) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shelf-Stable | Up to a year | Room Temperature | Within a week |
| Refrigerated | About a month | Refrigerated | Within a week |
Here’s a summary in bullet points:
- Shelf-stable almond milk: Can be stored at room temperature until opened.
- Refrigerated almond milk: Must be kept in the refrigerator.
- Opened almond milk: Always needs to be refrigerated and used within a week.
