The Benefits of Shelf-Stable Plant Milk

The next time you stock up, choose the convenient, nutrient-packed plant milk option.

We all have our morning routines. For some, that might include rising at the crack of dawn for an intense morning workout. For others, it might include time for peaceful relaxation while watching the sunrise. Maybe you follow your workout up with a protein-packed smoothie, or you slowly ease into the morning with a steaming bowl of oatmeal. But is there anything worse than having this morning routine so rudely interrupted by opening the refrigerator door to find you are out of milk or it's gone sour?

At that point, we all know there are two options: start your day with a letdown, or risk being late to work by swinging through a drive-thru. Wouldn’t it be a dream to have an extra carton of milk stashed in the pantry for emergencies like this?

Well, this shelf-stable milk does exist, but we’re not talking about the overly processed and filled with additives kind. We’re talking about the shelf-stable plant milk kind - made simply from blended nuts, grains or seeds, and water, which can be safely stored on your pantry shelf for up to six months. From now on, you can skip the panic of dairy milk gone sour, and rest assured in your pantry’s stock of shelf-stable plant milk.

How is it done?

Our products enjoy a longer shelf-life than dairy alternatives, thanks to the fact that they’re packaged aseptically. The cartons are packed and sealed in a sterile and airless hermetically sealed environment, then superheated for two seconds at 280°F, long enough to destroy any bacteria but far too short to affect the flavor or natural nutrients. Because this quick process takes place in an airtight space sealed so tightly that no air can leave or enter, it prevents exposure to anything that might compromise their purity or shelf-life.

Without the need for any hidden ingredients, preservatives or artificial flavors, Elmhurst plant-based milks can last for up to 6 months on your pantry shelf and will still taste as fresh as they did the day they were made when you are ready to use them. Just be sure to check the ‘Best By’ date stamped on the package so you know just how long you’ll have, as it will depend on when your particular batch was made.

Once you decide to break the seal on your plant milk, you have 7-10 days to enjoy the creamy goodness inside. You’ll also need to refrigerate any carton that has been opened, just as you would if you were to make your own at home. Feel free to reference our comprehensive guide to all things aseptic packaging, for more information on the aseptic packaging process and all of the benefits it offers to both the plant milk and you.

Aseptic packaging offers us a process that delivers fresh, consistent products far longer than other options can manage. Oftentimes, our competitors will trade pure products and natural health benefits to extend expiration dates by adding in all sorts of preservatives and stabilizers. Thanks to simple ingredients, aseptic packaging and our HydroRelease™ Method, our products can last months longer  without unnecessary ingredients.

What about heat?

Have you ever been on a hike during a warm day and reached for your water bottle, only to find the water as warm as the outside air? You can still drink it, it might just not taste as great. The same goes for shelf-stable plant milks if they haven't been opened, which is part of the reason why you will often still find us refrigerated at your local store. They are simply best enjoyed chilled first.

Thanks to the purity of ingredients and the aseptic packaging process we use, the quality of the nut milk won’t be affected at room temperature so long as it hasn’t been opened. Up to six months from now, you’ll still be able to use it to make your smoothies!

Shelf-Stable nut milk is better for your health

There’s no denying, pantry stable milk can’t be beaten in convenience -- but pantry-stable nut milk can’t be beaten in its combination of convenience and nutritional constitution. Why skip the good stuff and purchase ultra-pasteurized dairy, when you could be doing your body a favor by choosing plant milks instead? With the promise of delicious taste, up to six months of shelf life and freedom from preservatives, shelf-stable nut milk might be the best option for stocking the pantry shelves with long-lasting products. Wave goodbye to frantic mornings, and say hello to peace of mind and a healthy body.