Is expired soy milk safe to drink?
Quick Answer
No
Drinking expired soy milk is not recommended as it can cause food poisoning. The milk may develop harmful bacteria, especially if it has been stored improperly.
What Is It?
Expired soy milk refers to soy milk that has passed its ‘best before’ or ‘use by’ date indicated on the packaging.
How to Tell
Signs of spoiled soy milk include a sour smell, a change in color, or a thick, clumpy texture.
Why It Can Be Risky
Consuming expired soy milk can pose several health risks.
- Food poisoning: The growth of harmful bacteria in the milk can lead to food poisoning, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Allergic reactions: Spoiled soy milk can trigger allergic reactions in some people, leading to symptoms like itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
Safe Method?
Always check the expiration date before consuming soy milk. If it’s past the date or shows signs of spoilage, it’s best to discard it.
Can You Just Cut It Off?
Soy milk should be consumed within 7-10 days of opening, even if the expiration date is still in the future. Once it’s past this timeframe, it’s best to throw it away.
Safe Alternatives
If you frequently find yourself with expired soy milk, consider switching to non-perishable alternatives like soy milk powder or shelf-stable UHT soy milk.
Storage Tips
Store soy milk in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C).’, ‘Keep the container sealed when not in use to prevent exposure to air and bacteria.’, ‘Do not leave soy milk at room temperature for more than two hours.