All About Coconut milk
Your complete guide to coconut milk - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Coconut milk Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for coconut milk in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
Unopened, Pantry/Room Temperature (Canned/UHT Carton)Until 'best by' date for optimal quality, potentially safe for several months beyond if the container is undamaged.
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging, severely dented, rusted, or leaking container; foul odor upon opening, even if the container seemed intact.
How to Check
Visually inspect the can or carton for any signs of damage or swelling. If the container is compromised in any way, discard it. Upon opening, take a cautious sniff; any strong, unpleasant, or sour odor indicates spoilage.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. Do not store near heat sources like stoves or radiators.
Opened, Fridge (Canned/UHT Carton)4-7 days
Signs of Spoilage
Sour, rancid, or 'cheesy' odor; visible mold (green, black, or pink spots); significant discoloration (e.g., yellowish or grayish tint); thickened, slimy, or lumpy texture that doesn't smooth out with stirring; excessive separation that won't recombine.
How to Check
Smell Test: A strong, unpleasant sour or rancid smell is the primary indicator. Visual Inspection: Look for any mold growth, unusual color changes, or an overly thick, curdled appearance. Texture Test: Pour a small amount; it should be relatively smooth, not slimy or stringy. If in doubt, it's safer to discard.
Storage Tips
Immediately transfer any unused coconut milk to a clean, airtight container (glass jar or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid) after opening. Do not store in the opened can, as metals can leach into the product and it's not airtight.
Unopened, Fridge (Beverage/Drink Carton)Until 'best by' date on the package, typically 7-10 days from purchase.
Signs of Spoilage
Swollen or bulging carton; strong off-odor immediately upon opening (sour, yeasty, or fermented); visibly curdled or unusually thick texture before pouring; visible mold.
How to Check
Visual Inspection: Check the carton for any swelling or leaks. Smell Test: Upon opening, sniff for any sour, yeasty, or otherwise off-putting smells. Pour Test: It should pour smoothly; look for any immediate curdling or lumps.
Storage Tips
Always keep refrigerated, even before opening, as these products are not shelf-stable like canned versions. Ensure the carton is not damaged.
Opened, Fridge (Beverage/Drink Carton)7-10 days
Signs of Spoilage
Sour or fermented smell (like spoiled dairy milk); distinct change in color (e.g., yellowing or grayish tint); clumpy, curdled, or slimy consistency; visible mold on the surface or inside the carton.
How to Check
Smell Test: A sour, vinegary, or yeasty smell is a clear sign of spoilage. Visual Inspection: Look for mold, discoloration, or a separated, chunky texture. Taste Test (with extreme caution): If unsure after smell and visual checks, taste a tiny amount. A sour, bitter, or otherwise off-flavor means it's bad. Discard immediately if any signs of spoilage are present.
Storage Tips
Ensure the carton is tightly sealed after each use. Avoid drinking directly from the carton to prevent bacterial contamination from your mouth. If you suspect spoilage, err on the side of caution and discard.
Frozen (Opened Leftovers)2-3 months for best quality; safe indefinitely if kept at 0°F (-18°C), but quality degrades over time.
Signs of Spoilage
Freezer burn (dry, discolored spots) indicates quality degradation but not necessarily spoilage. Significant change in texture upon thawing (more grainy or separated) is normal for frozen coconut milk but excessive changes or off-odors after thawing indicate pre-existing spoilage or poor storage.
How to Check
Visual Inspection (after thawing): While texture changes are common, check for any mold that might have developed before freezing if it was opened. Smell Test (after thawing): It should still have a mild coconut aroma. Any off-smells suggest spoilage that occurred before freezing or during improper thawing/storage.
Storage Tips
Freeze in ice cube trays or small, airtight freezer-safe containers for easy portioning. Leave headspace in containers as liquids expand when frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging the sealed container in cold water. Stir well after thawing, as separation is normal. The texture might be slightly grainier or less smooth than fresh, making it better suited for cooking and smoothies than for drinking.