Is expired coconut milk safe to drink?
Quick Answer
No
Drinking expired coconut milk may cause food poisoning. It’s important to check for signs of spoilage such as a sour smell, change in color, or lumps before consuming.
What Is It?
Expired coconut milk refers to coconut milk that has passed its ‘best by’ date. This date is a manufacturer’s estimate of when the product will start to decline in quality, but not necessarily in safety.
How to Tell
Signs of spoiled coconut milk include a sour smell, a change in color, the presence of mold, or a thick, curdled texture.
Why It Can Be Risky
The risks of consuming expired coconut milk are primarily related to foodborne illness.
- Food poisoning: Spoiled coconut milk can harbor bacteria that cause food poisoning.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have an allergic reaction to spoiled food.
Safe Method?
To ensure safety, always check coconut milk for signs of spoilage before consuming. If in doubt, throw it out.
Can You Just Cut It Off?
If coconut milk has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage, it may still be safe to consume for a few days past its ‘best by’ date. However, this is not guaranteed.
Safe Alternatives
If you find that your coconut milk has expired, consider alternatives such as almond milk, soy milk, or fresh coconut milk.
Storage Tips
Store coconut milk in a cool, dark place before opening.’, ‘After opening, refrigerate and use within 4-6 days.’, ‘Do not consume if it has been left out at room temperature for more than 4 hours.