Do coconut aminos go bad? It’s true; they do expire.
But how long do they last? And what are the signs that they have gone bad?
In this blog post, we will discuss the shelf life of coconut aminos and how to tell if they have expired.
Unopened Coconut Aminos have a three-year shelf life from the date of production. To maintain quality, freshness, and flavor, open bottles should be eaten within six months and it is safe to ingest two months beyond their expiration date.
What Are Coconut Aminos?
Coconut aminos are not made from mature coconut nuts.
Instead, they are made from fermented raw coconut “sap” (the nectar of the coconut flower) and mineral-rich sea salt.
Fresh coconut sap is taken from the flower before it opens.
This sap makes syrup, vinegar, sweeteners, alcohol, and coconut aminos, among other things.
Coconut sap ferments on its own because it has yeast, bacteria, and sugar in it. No extra ingredients are needed.
The result is a special aged liquid that used to be white but has now turned dark brown.
This liquid is mixed with unrefined sea salt to make coconut aminos, a tasty sauce.
They have a slightly sweet and salty flavor similar to soy sauce. Coconut aminos are a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine and are often used as a condiment or dipping sauce.
Do Coconut Aminos Go Bad?
Coconut aminos will keep for up to two years when stored in a cool, dark place.
However, after a year or so, the flavor of coconut aminos will begin to change.
Here are some telltale signs that your coconut aminos have gone bad:
1. Change in Color
If your coconut aminos have changed colors, it has probably gone bad.
The color change usually indicates exposure to oxygen, which can cause the coconut aminos to change color from a dark brown to a light brown.
2. Texture Change
If the texture of your coconut aminos has changed, it is probably no longer good to use.
The texture of coconut aminos can change from a liquid to a gel-like consistency when it goes bad.
This is due to the breakdown of the proteins in the coconut aminos. The texture change will not affect the flavor of the coconut aminos.
3. Smell Change
If your coconut aminos have changed smells, it is probably no longer good to use.
The smell of bad coconut aminos can be described as sour or rancid. If your coconut aminos have this smell, it is best to discard them.
4. Molds or Yeasts
It is no longer good to use if you see molds or yeasts growing on your coconut aminos.
The molds and yeasts can cause the flavor of the coconut aminos. If you see molds or yeasts, it is best to discard the coconut aminos.
5. Check the Expiration Date
The best way to tell if your coconut aminos have gone bad is to check the expiration date.
If the expiration date has passed, it is best to discard the coconut aminos.
How Long Do Coconut Aminos Last?
This is a question that many people ask, as they are interested in using this healthy and delicious product.
Several factors will affect how long your coconut aminos will last.
1. How You Store Them
If you store your coconut aminos in a cool, dark place, they will last longer than if you store them in a warm or light place.
Room Temperature
Coconut aminos will last for about two years at room temperature.
This is because room temperature, light and air exposure are all factors that can cause the amino acids in coconut aminos to break down.
This process is called hydrolysis, and it reduces the shelf life of the product.
To help prolong the shelf life of your coconut aminos, we recommend storing them in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard.
Be sure to keep the lid tightly sealed when not in use.
Freezer
Coconut aminos will last for a very long time indefinitely in the freezer.
This is because freezing stops hydrolysis and prevents the amino acids from breaking down.
When ready to use your frozen coconut aminos, thaw it out in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Be sure to shake it well before using.
Refrigerator
Do coconut aminos go bad if not refrigerated? Coconut aminos will last for about two years in the fridge.
This is because the fridge is a cool, dark place that can help prolong the shelf life of your coconut aminos.
Tip: Be sure to keep the lid tightly sealed when not in use.
2. The Type of Container You Use to Store Them
Glass containers are best, as they do not allow light or air to reach the aminos.
Unopened Coconut Aminos
Coconut aminos that have been unopened will last for about two years at room temperature.
This is because unopened coconut aminos are not exposed to light and air, which can cause the amino acids to break down.
Opened Coconut Aminos
Coconut aminos that have been opened will last for about one year in the fridge.
This is because opened coconut aminos are exposed to light and air, which can cause the amino acids to break down.
Be sure to keep the lid tightly sealed when not in use.
3. How Often You Use Them
If you use your coconut aminos daily, they will last longer than if you only use them once a week.
The fourth factor is how long you cook them. Coconut aminos that are cooked for longer periods will last longer than those cooked for shorter periods.
How to Make Coconut Aminos Last Longer
Coconut aminos are a great way to add flavor to your food, but they can be pricey.
Here are a few tips to make your coconut aminos last longer.
1. Store them in a cool, dark place:
Coconut aminos will last longer if stored in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard.
2. Add to your coconut aminos:
The more salt you add, the longer they will last. This is because salt acts as a preservative.
3. Don’t open them too often:
Once you open a bottle of coconut aminos, the clock starts ticking, and they will start to go bad sooner.
So, try only to open them when you need to use them and not just for a taste test.
4. Use a clean spoon:
Every time you dip into the bottle of coconut aminos, you are introducing bacteria that can cause them to go bad faster.
So, make sure to use a clean spoon each time and to close the bottle tightly afterward.
What Are The Consequences of Consuming Bad Coconut Amino?
There are a few possible consequences of consuming bad coconut amino.
Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is the most common consequence of consuming bad coconut amino. Symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
In severe cases, food poisoning can lead to dehydration and even death.
Pregnant women and young children are especially vulnerable to the effects of food poisoning.
Other health complications that can result from consuming bad coconut amino include:
- Urinary tract infections
- Kidney failure
- Liver disease
Tip: So, if you're thinking of consuming coconut amino, make sure it's from a reputable source and hasn't been sitting out for too long. Your health is worth the extra effort.
FAQs About Coconut Aminos Going Bad?
Do you have any other questions on whether coconut amino goes bad? Here are some of the FAQs about coconut aminos.
What is the Measurement For Coconut Liquid Aminos?
The amount of food determines the quantity of coconut liquid required.
It may also be used as a table condiment. Add a dollop to your favorite quinoa salad, vegetable stir-fry, or another savory dish.
Can You Consume Discolored Coconut Aminos?
If your coconut aminos are discolored, it is still safe to consume them.
However, the quality of the sauce may have diminished, and it might not taste as good as it normally does.
If you’re unclear about your sauce, contact the maker.
Final Verdict.
So, do coconut aminos go bad? Yes, they can lose their flavor and become less palatable over time.
If you’ve had a bottle for more than a year or so, it’s probably best to toss it and get a new one.
However, a single bottle can last for several years without issue if you’re like me and tend to use it sparingly.
Thanks for reading, and I hope this was helpful!