As a coffee lover, I understand the importance of having the perfect creamer to complement my morning cup of joe. That’s why I decided to dive deeper into Coffee Mate, one of the most popular non-dairy creamers on the market, and answer the burning question: does it need to be refrigerated?
If you’re like me, you may have found yourself wondering about the proper storage of your Coffee Mate creamer, whether it is dairy or non-dairy. You might be worried about the impact of leaving it out for too long or even questioning if it can spoil.
In this article, I will provide you with everything you need to know about storing Coffee Mate, including the types of creamers that require refrigeration, how to tell if it’s gone bad and how to store it properly.
What is Coffee Mate?
Before we dive into the details of Coffee Mate’s storage requirements, let’s first take a look at exactly what it is.
Coffee Mate is a non-dairy creamer that serves as a substitute for milk or cream in your coffee. It’s available in various flavors and forms, including liquid and powdered. The creamer typically contains water, sugar, vegetable oil, and other additives and flavorings.
Does Coffee Mate Need to be Refrigerated?
The answer depends on the type of Coffee Mate creamer. Liquid Coffee Mate creamer needs to be refrigerated at all times. Powdered Coffee Mate creamer does not need to be refrigerated, but it should be stored in a cool, dry place. Some Coffee Mate creamers, such as the lactose-free French vanilla creamer, do not need to be refrigerated. It is important to check the label for specific storage instructions, and if it says “Refrigerate After Opening,” then it should be refrigerated.
Let’s break down the different types of Coffee Mate creamers and their storage requirements.
Liquid Coffee Mate
Liquid Coffee Mate creamers must be refrigerated after opening. This is because they contain dairy-free milk, which can spoil quickly when left at room temperature for an extended period.
It is recommended to use the product within two weeks after opening and to store it in the refrigerator at all times. If you see any signs of spoilage such as curdling, discolouration or an off smell, discard it immediately.
Powdered Coffee Mate
Powdered Coffee Mate creamers do not require refrigeration. This is because they are non-dairy products and do not contain any perishable ingredients. However, it’s still best to store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the product’s quality over time.
Can Coffee Mate Spoil?
Yes, like any other food or drink, Coffee Mate can spoil if not stored properly. Liquid Coffee Mate creamers, in particular, can go bad quickly when left at room temperature for too long.
How to Tell If Coffee Mate Creamer Has Spoiled?
It’s crucial to know how to tell if your Coffee Mate has gone bad to avoid consuming spoiled creamer that can make you sick. Here are some signs that your creamer may be spoiled:
- Discoloration: If your creamer turns yellow or brown, it could be a sign of spoilage.
- Texture: If the texture is chunky or lumpy instead of creamy or smooth, it likely has gone bad.
- Smell: An unpleasant odor coming from the creamer is another clear sign that it has spoiled.
- Taste: Sour, rancid or off flavors are indications that your creamer has gone bad.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to dispose of the product immediately.
How to Store Coffee Mate Creamer?
Proper storage is essential to extend the shelf life of your Coffee Mate creamer and maintain its quality. Here are some tips to help you store your creamer appropriately:
- Refrigerate liquid Coffee Mate creamer after opening and use within two weeks.
- Store powdered Coffee Mate creamer in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Check the expiration date before purchasing any Coffee Mate creamer.
- Always label opened creamers with the date they were opened to keep track of their shelf life.
Factors that Affect the Shelf Life of Coffee Mate Creamer
Several factors can impact the shelf life of your creamer. These include:
- Whether it’s opened or unopened
- The type of creamer (liquid or powdered)
- The storage conditions (refrigerated or at room temperature)
- Exposure to light and air
It’s essential to consider these factors when storing your Coffee Mate creamer to ensure its quality over time.
How Long Can Coffee Mate Creamer Be Left Out of the Fridge?
According to various sources, an open container of Coffee-Mate creamer can be left out of the fridge for up to two hours. However, it is recommended to store it in the refrigerator at 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
An open non-dairy creamer usually lasts up to two weeks in the fridge, while open dairy creamers taste best if used within seven days, but they are often safe to drink for up to two weeks. If you want to store opened Coffee Mate liquid creamer in the fridge, it can stay fresh for up to 2-3 weeks at max.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not Coffee Mate needs to be refrigerated depends on the type of creamer you are using. Liquid Coffee-Mate must be refrigerated after opening, while powdered Coffee Mate does not require refrigeration.
Proper storage and disposal of your Coffee Mate creamer is crucial to maintain its quality and avoid consuming a spoiled product. Always check the expiration date before purchasing any creamer and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
If you notice any signs of spoilage such as discolouration, off smell, or unusual texture, dispose of the product immediately. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your Coffee Mate creamer stays fresh and delicious for longer.
FAQs
Why doesn’t coffee mate need to be refrigerated?
Coffee Mate does not need to be refrigerated because it is a shelf-stable product that has been sealed and ultrapasteurized. This means that it has been heated at high temperatures to kill off any potentially harmful bacteria. Powdered Coffee Mate should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from heat sources like stoves or refrigerators. Liquid Coffee Mate, on the other hand, needs to be refrigerated all the time as it can get ruined when exposed to outside hot temperatures for a longer period.
Does Coffee Mate Original creamer need to be refrigerated?
Coffee Mate Original creamer does not need to be refrigerated, according to multiple sources. It is designed to be stored in a cool, dry place and can last up to a year without perishing. However, Coffee Mate liquid creamer singles should be refrigerated if they have been opened and are exposed to outside hot temperatures for a longer period.
