How do you know if Silk next milk is bad?
Silk next milk is a popular dairy-free milk alternative made from pea protein. Like regular dairy milk, Silk next milk can spoil and go bad if not stored properly. Here are some tips on how to tell if your Silk next milk has gone bad and needs to be thrown out.
Check the Expiration Date
The first thing to check is the expiration date printed on the Silk next milk carton or bottle. This will give you an idea of how long the unopened Silk next milk should last before going bad. An unopened container of Silk next milk typically lasts 5-10 days past its printed expiration date when stored properly in the fridge.
Once opened, Silk next milk will generally stay fresh for 7-10 days in the refrigerator. So make sure to check the expiration date and write down when you first opened the carton. If it’s past both the expiration date and the 7-10 day window after opening, it’s time to say goodbye to that Silk next milk.
Inspect the Color and Smell
When milk starts to spoil, it undergoes physical and chemical changes. Check the color and give your Silk next milk a sniff to detect any sour or “off” odors.
Fresh Silk next milk should be creamy white in color. If the color changes to a yellow or yellowish-brown tint, that indicates spoilage.
Give the milk a smell test. Unopened and good Silk next milk has a pleasant, mild aroma. Spoiled milk gives off a distinctly sour, curdled scent caused by bacteria growth. If it smells off or unpleasant in any way, err on the side of caution and toss it.
Check Texture and Taste
The texture of Silk next milk can also indicate freshness. Unopened shelves stable Silk next milk should have a smooth, creamy consistency. Once opened, it may thicken slightly over time but should not be chunky or clumpy.
If you notice any curdling, lumpiness, separation, or a gelatinous texture when you open or pour the milk, it is likely past its prime.
Lastly, your taste buds can confirm whether your Silk next milk has soured. Sip a small amount to check for a rancid, bitter, or sour taste. You may also notice an acidic or fermented flavor. Any “off” tastes mean it’s time to toss the remainder.
Check for Gas Bubble Formation
Gas formation is another tell-tale sign your Silk next milk has spoiled. Bacteria growth produces gases that can cause ballooning of the carton or bottle. Check the sides and bottom for puffing or bulging.
Once opened, check for film formation and gas bubbles inside the bottle. Tiny bubbles throughout when you give the bottle a gentle shake indicate the milk is past its prime.
Watch Out for Mold
Like other dairy-free milks, Silk next milk can develop visible mold growth if left too long. Check the inner walls of the carton for any fuzzy or slimy spots. Once mold forms, do not consume any of the milk. The mold can spread spores invisible to the naked eye that could cause illness.
How to Extend the Life of Silk Next Milk
To extend the shelf life of Silk next milk and prevent premature spoilage:
- Refrigerate after opening. Keep Silk next milk stored at 40°F or below.
- Seal the container tightly after each use.
- Check the “use by” date and don’t purchase milk that’s close to expiring.
- When stocking up, place newer cartons towards the back so you use the oldest first.
- Do not return unused milk back to the fridge if left sitting out. Discard after 1-2 hours unrefrigerated.
- Keep your fridge clean to help milk stay fresh longer.
- Store Silk next milk on an interior fridge shelf, not the door.
Unopened shelf-stable Silk next milk can be stored at room temperature until opened. But once opened, it must be refrigerated and used within 7-10 days.
How Long Does Silk Next Milk Last?
Here is a breakdown of how long Silk next milk typically lasts:
| Silk Next Milk Type | Unopened | After Opening |
|---|---|---|
| Shelf-Stable Carton | 5-10 days past ‘use by’ date | 7-10 days |
| Refrigerated Carton | 5-7 days past ‘use by’ date | 7-10 days |
The shelf life can vary based on how it is stored, so rely on your senses along with the expiration date to determine if your Silk next milk is still good or ready for the dumpster.
What Happens If You Drink Bad Silk Next Milk?
Drinking spoiled Silk next milk poses some risks, although it is generally safer than spoiled cow’s milk.
Symptoms from consuming bad plant-based milk may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stomach cramps or diarrhea
- Bloating or gas
- Lactose intolerance reaction
The following guidelines can help prevent illness:
- Do not drink Silk next milk past the expiration date.
- Discard opened cartons after 7-10 days.
- Never consume fizzy, chunky, or malodorous milk.
- Do not re-freeze thawed Silk next milk.
- Keep refrigerators and storage areas clean.
If you accidentally ingest spoiled Silk next milk, drink plenty of fluids and rest. See a doctor if severe nausea, diarrhea, or cramps occur. Sick infants should receive medical care.
Conclusion
Checking the expiry date, smell, texture, and taste of Silk next milk can help determine if it’s gone bad. For best quality, refrigerate after opening and use within 7-10 days. Discard immediately if you detect an off smell, flavor, appearance or gas bubbles. Following proper storage methods and the use by date helps ensure you get the most out of your Silk next milk before it spoils.
