How to Tell When Coconut Milk Has Gone Bad (Canned and Bottled)

In recent years, coconut milk has found its way into kitchens around the globe, becoming a go-to ingredient for those craving a rich, creamy texture without relying on dairy. It’s perfect for curries, soups, smoothies, and even desserts, making it a cornerstone for vegans, those with dairy allergies, or simply the adventurous home cook. While it’s always wise to have a few cans or cartons at hand, it’s worth noting that coconut milk doesn’t last forever. But how long can you really keep it before it goes bad?

Does Coconut Milk Go Bad, and How Long Does It Last?

Yes, coconut milk does go bad—like all good things in life. Whether it's the canned variety you find in your local supermarket or the kind sold in cartons or bricks, there's an expiration date you should be aware of. Unopened canned coconut milk, for instance, can last for up to two to five years in your pantry, depending on storage conditions. Once opened, however, the countdown begins, and you generally have about 5-7 days to use it before things start going south.

Cartons, which are often more perishable due to their lower fat content and the way they’re processed, typically last a bit less—unopened they can go for about 6 months, but after opening, their shelf life drops to a few days. So, yes, your beloved coconut milk will eventually turn, and it’s important to know when to part ways.

How to Tell if Coconut Milk Has Gone Bad

So, how do you know when it's time to toss that coconut milk lurking in the back of your fridge? First, let's talk about the most obvious: the sight test. Fresh coconut milk is smooth and creamy, whether it’s thick or more fluid depending on the type. If you notice a strange separation that won't stir back together or if the texture looks a little chunky, that’s a red flag. But don't just rely on appearances.

Next up, let your nose do the detective work. Coconut milk should have a mild, slightly sweet aroma. If you catch a sour or musty smell, it's a clear sign your coconut milk has turned. Remember, when in doubt, sniff it out!

Finally, there's the taste test—but proceed with caution here! If you’ve seen no obvious signs of spoilage but still aren’t sure, take a small sip. Spoiled coconut milk tastes sour and unpleasant, far from the smooth, slightly nutty flavor it should have. A sip won't hurt, but if it tastes off, it’s time to bid it farewell.

What Happens if You Use Spoiled Coconut Milk?

We’ve all been there—using something we probably shouldn’t have because we hate to waste food. But what happens if you accidentally use or drink coconut milk that's gone bad? Well, the short answer: it’s not great. Spoiled coconut milk can cause digestive discomfort, which might range from mild stomach upset to something a little more dramatic. If your dish starts tasting funky, it’s best to stop eating, because while coconut milk won’t send you on a hospital trip immediately, it could lead to some unwelcome tummy troubles.