Oat milk is probably one of the most popular dairy-free options for a morning caffe latte, so much so that there are even websites with maps that help you locate your nearest oat milk-friendly cafe! Although oat milk provides valuable micronutrients such as vitamins A, B12, and D2, calcium, and riboflavin, it usually has slightly higher levels of carbs than other alternative milk options like almond milk. Also, be cautious about the presence of oil in commercially available oat milk.
Storage of this popular plant-based milk depends on a couple of things, namely if you have purchased a shelf-stable brand or not or if we are talking homemade oat milk. Let’s see what we need to do with each!
How To Store Oat Milk
Oat milk comes in two types: shelf-stable and refrigerated. Shelf-stable oat milk can be stored in the pantry or on the countertop when unopened. After opening, refrigerate it. On the other hand, refrigerated oat milk needs constant refrigeration.
If you have made oat milk at home, it is not at all shelf stable and needs to go into the fridge immediately. It is best to store any kind of milk on a shelf at the back of the refrigerator rather than in the door, as the temperature in the door may fluctuate.
Can You Freeze Oat Milk?
You freeze oat milk for up to 6 months, extending its shelf life. Freezing oat milk is a simple process. If bought in a carton, freeze it unopened. I personally freeze oat milk in small ice cubes, which you can then drop directly into smoothies or coffee. Here is my method for doing this:
1. Pour oat milk into a container with some kind of spout.
2. Transfer the oat milk into an ice cube tray, leaving just a tiny bit of space for expansion.
3. Carefully place the tray in the freezer, ensuring it remains level, and let the cubes freeze solid (usually takes a few hours).
4. Once solid, remove the cubes from the tray and place them in a freezer-safe zip-lock bag.
5. Seal the bag tightly, removing as much air as possible.
6. Finally, return the bag to the freezer. Consider labelling this bag if you also freeze other plant-based or dairy milk.
How To Defrost Oat Milk
To defrost oat milk, simply transfer it from the freezer to the fridge (NOT the bench or pantry). This rule applies to both homemade and store-bought oat milk. Plan ahead and remove it the night before if you intend to use it for breakfast the next day, as thawing usually takes approximately 8 to 10 hours.
How Long Does Oat Milk Last?
In the fridge, I have found opened, shelf-stable store-bought oat milk lasts around 2-3 weeks, extending up to 5-7 days beyond the expiration date. If frozen, it can be kept for up to 6 months. Unopened shelf-stable oat milk stays fresh for at least six months in the pantry or the fridge. Remember, once opened, it should be refrigerated. Check the label for specific refrigeration duration, usually lasting 1-10 days.
Home-made oat milk lasts 3-5 days in the fridge, as the remaining oat content can make the milk turn slimy pretty fast. I make homemade oat milk, but I only ever make enough for three days.
How To Know When Oat Milk Is Rancid?
When it comes to oat milk, rely on your sense of smell and taste, as well as any changes in texture and color. Indications that oat milk has spoiled include a musty or sour aroma and visual signs like lumps, sliminess, separation, or thickening. In my experience, the slimy texture is the first sign that your oat milk is on its way out.
While it is possible to consume expired oat milk, be cautious as it may result in illness. Spoiled oat milk, especially if it is homemade, can cause food poisoning, potentially leading to intestinal inflammation, vomiting, or diarrhea.
FAQs
Because oat milk is derived from fiber-rich oats, it has higher carbohydrate levels than other milk alternatives but is free from saturated fats. It is not as nutrient-dense as dairy milk, unless it has been fortified with vitamins and minerals. Please note that many store-bought oat milks include additives such as sugars, oils, and emulsifiers and are notably high in calories. Always check the labels carefully!
Oat milk has a lot of fiber compared to other nut or non-dairy milks, plus it is easy to make and is one of the cheaper non-dairy milk alternatives, meaning its popularity may be due to the fact that it is widely available and used.
The level of sugar in oat milk totally depends on the brand. Some of the store-bought varieties can have around seven grams of added sugars per cup!
Oat milk is considered better for the environment than dairy milk, with a carbon footprint of 0.18kg per 200mL. Dairy has more than three times that level.
Yes, you can heat oat milk, though doing so may cause it to change texture. If you have ever poured oat milk into a hot coffee and waited about 5 minutes, you will know what I mean!
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