All About Soy milk
Your complete guide to soy milk - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Soy milk Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for soy 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 refrigerated (non-UHT) fridge7-10 days past 'sell by' or 'best by' date
Signs of Spoilage
Sour, rancid, or 'cheesy' smell upon opening; thickened, lumpy, or curdled texture; yellowish or greyish discoloration; visible mold (very rare in unopened cartons).
How to Check
Check the 'best by' or 'sell by' date. If it's close to or past the date, pour a small amount into a clear glass to check for visual abnormalities and smell. If it smells off or looks unusual, discard.
Storage Tips
Always keep refrigerated. Do not let it sit at room temperature for extended periods before opening.
unopened shelf-stable (UHT) pantry6-12 months (until 'best by' date)
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging carton, leaks, severe off-odor emanating from the carton (even before opening if severely compromised), curdling or visible mold upon opening (rare, indicates a seal failure).
How to Check
Visually inspect the packaging for any damage, swelling, or leaks. Check the 'best by' or 'expiration' date printed on the carton. If the packaging is intact and within date, it's generally safe.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dark, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Once opened, it must be refrigerated.
opened fridge7-10 days
Signs of Spoilage
Strong sour, rancid, 'cheesy', or 'yeasty' smell; thickened, lumpy, stringy, or curdled texture; visible separation of solids and liquids that doesn't re-mix with shaking; yellowish or greyish discoloration; visible mold growth (rare but possible).
How to Check
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Smell Test: Pour a small amount into a clear glass. A distinct sour, 'off', or 'cheesy' odor is the most reliable sign.
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Visual Inspection: Observe the color and consistency. Look for lumps, stringiness, or unusual separation.
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Pour Test: It should pour smoothly. If it comes out in globs or looks excessively thick, it's likely spoiled.
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Taste Test (Last Resort): If smell and visual checks are clear, take a very small sip. If it tastes sour, bitter, or otherwise unpleasant, spit it out and discard the rest. Do not consume if any spoilage signs are present.
Storage Tips
Always reseal the container tightly after each use. Store in the coldest part of the refrigerator, not the door, as temperature fluctuations in the door can accelerate spoilage. Do not drink directly from the carton to avoid introducing bacteria.
frozen freezer3-6 months (for best quality)
Signs of Spoilage
While freezing prevents bacterial spoilage, quality can degrade. Signs include significant texture changes (more watery, grainy, or separated after thawing), and a less fresh flavor profile. It won't 'spoil' in the safety sense if kept frozen, but quality will diminish.
How to Check
After thawing, visually inspect for unusual separation or graininess. Shake well. If the texture is too unpleasant or the flavor significantly off, it may be best for cooking rather than drinking plain.
Storage Tips
Soy milk can be frozen, but its texture may change upon thawing, becoming more watery or separated. It's best used in smoothies, baking, or cooking after thawing rather than drinking plain. Freeze in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, leaving about an inch of headspace as liquids expand when frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Shake well before use after thawing.