Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or just looking for a nutritious alternative to dairy milk, pea milk has become increasingly popular in recent years. It’s not only creamy and versatile but also packed with protein and other essential nutrients. But, like any type of milk, knowing how to store it properly is key to preserving its freshness and flavor!
Today, I’ll explore the best ways to store pea milk, delve into the shelf life of pea milk and how to spot if it has gone bad. So, let’s jump right in!
What is the best way to store pea milk?
Pea milk has a longer shelf life than regular dairy milk, but it still needs to be stored properly. How you store it depends on whether it’s unopened or opened and whether it’s shelf-stable or refrigerated.
If your pea milk is in a shelf-stable, aseptic carton (often found on grocery store shelves at room temperature), it can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place until the expiration date mentioned on the packaging. It’s essential to keep it away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Once you’ve opened the carton of pea milk, it should be refrigerated to maintain freshness. Place it in the refrigerator at a temperature between 32°F to 40°F (0°C to 4°C). Be sure to tightly seal the container or transfer the milk to an airtight container to prevent spoilage and absorption of any odors from the fridge.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on the packaging, as specific storage instructions may vary slightly between different brands of pea milk.
Does pea milk need to be refrigerated?
The short answer is yes; pea milk should be stored in the refrigerator. Keeping it cold helps maintain its quality and extends its shelf life.
Pea milk, like traditional dairy milk, is perishable and can spoil if left at room temperature for an extended period. The cool and consistent temperature of the refrigerator is essential to prevent the growth of bacteria that can cause spoilage. Therefore, as soon as you open a carton of pea milk, make sure to place it in the fridge.
However, it’s important to note that unopened cartons of pea milk are typically shelf-stable and can be stored in your pantry or kitchen cabinet until the expiration date printed on the packaging. Once opened, though, they should promptly be moved to the fridge to maintain their freshness.
Can you freeze pea milk?
Yes, you can freeze pea milk. However, some pea milk companies, such as Ripple, don’t recommend freezing their plant-based milk because they could change texture when thawed.
While it’s best to consume plant-basked milk within 7 to 10 days after opening, you can still freeze it.
Here’s how to freeze pea milk:
- Transfer the pea milk from its original carton to an airtight container. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion as the liquid freezes.
- Don’t forget to label the container with the date of freezing. This will help you keep track of how long it has been in the freezer.
- When you’re ready to use your frozen pea milk, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw slowly. Avoid using a microwave or hot water to speed up the process, as this can alter the milk’s texture.
- After thawing, give the pea milk a good shake to ensure that it regains its original consistency.
How long does pea milk last?
The shelf life of pea milk depends on several factors, including whether the carton is opened or unopened and how it’s stored.
When stored in a cool, dry place like your pantry or kitchen cabinet, unopened pea milk can last for up to 6 to 12 months (or before the expiration date, of course).
Once you open a carton of pea milk, it becomes more susceptible to spoilage. Typically, opened pea milk should be consumed within 7-10 days if refrigerated. However, it’s always a good practice to check for any signs of spoilage before using it (more on that later).
When properly stored in the freezer, pea milk can stay good for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to use it within this timeframe for the best quality.
How to spot spoiled pea milk
Nobody wants to take a sip of spoiled milk, whether it’s dairy-based or plant-based! Fortunately, it’s relatively easy to tell if pea milk has gone bad.
First, give it a sniff – if it smells weird or sour, that’s a red flag. Next, take a good look at it. If it’s all chunky, lumpy, or separated, that’s not a good sign either. Then, take a little taste. If it tastes sour or just plain bad, it’s probably spoiled. Also, check the expiration date on the carton, if it’s past its date, it’s more likely to be spoiled. When in doubt, it’s safer to toss it out rather than risk getting sick from spoiled pea milk.
FAQs
Yes, once opened, pea milk should be refrigerated to maintain its freshness. Unopened cartons can be stored in a cool, dry place. Always check the product’s packaging for specific storage instructions.
Unopened pea milk typically lasts up to 6 months to 1 year when stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within 7-10 days for the best quality and freshness.
Plant-based milks like pea milk should be stored in a cool, dry place when unopened and promptly refrigerated after opening. If you want to extend its shelf life, freezing is also an option.
Yes, pea milk can go bad if not stored properly or if it’s past its expiration date. Be sure to check for signs of spoilage, such as an unpleasant odor, strange texture, off taste, mold, or separation.
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