Adding the right creamer to your daily cup of morning coffee can be the difference between a good cup of coffee or a mediocre one. If you are a fan of coffee creamer, you might wonder how long can creamer sit out. Technically, the answer depends upon the type of creamer you are using.
Not all creamers are made from dairy. There are plenty of vegan options with different flavors that make a huge difference in how the creamer behaves when left out.
Today, we will discuss how long different types of coffee creamer can last when left out and the factors that influence it, so make sure you read this article until the end.
How Long Can Creamer Sit Out of the Fridge?
If you are using liquid coffee creamers, it will not keep for more than 2 hours. When left out after this period, it will be vulnerable to bacterial infection, especially if the ambient temperature ranges above 40˚F. This extends to both dairy as well as non-dairy creamers. It doesn’t matter if it’s still in the original container or mixed with your tea or cappuccino – it’ll undoubtedly go bad after 2 hours.
On the other hand, powdered coffee creamers are more long-lasting. Even without refrigeration, they can last for at least 18 to 24 months. What makes them resistant to early bacterial decay is the lack of moisture in their composition.
3 Storage Hacks to Extend the Life of Your Creamer
Like every other organic item, creamers too come with an expiration date. But that does not mean we cannot extend their life with adequate storage precautions.
Here are three easy storage hacks to keep your creamers fresh and safe for a longer time:
1. Keep the Temperature Low
The best way to preserve your coffee creamer is by properly refrigerating them, preferably under 40˚F. Under such low temperatures, it will be tough for any type of bacteria or yeast (the microbes responsible for spoiling your creamer) to attack it.
2. Store in Air-tight Bottles
Even the slightest hint of moisture can act as a catalyst in ruining your coffee creamer. So make sure you store it in airtight bottles that keep away environmental moisture as well as other contaminants.
In fact, it is best to leave your creamers in their original container. The brands have a much better idea of what they are dealing with and will design their packaging to withstand the test of time.
3. Keep Away From Sun
If you know it’s important to refrigerate your coffee creamer, you might already be aware that you should also keep it away from direct sunlight. A lot of dairy products contain a compound called riboflavin which is extremely photosensitive. Direct exposure to sunlight will cause it to oxidize and add a bitter or sour taste to the creamer.
How Long Can Creamer Last in a Refrigerator?
The shelf life for coffee creamer in the refrigerator can range from a few days to 2 weeks.
For example, if you are using liquid coffee creamers, it can remain usable for up to a week with refrigeration. Non-dairy creamers can last for more than 2 weeks.
Creamers made from coconut milk, almond milk, or cashew will keep for up to 10 days, whereas oat milk creamers can last a week, maximum.
Does Every Coffee Creamer Need to Be Refrigerated?
If you do not want to go through the hassle of refrigerating your creamer again and again, we have some good news for you. Certain creamers do not require refrigeration at any stage.
These creamers are usually available in concentrate or powder form. Even in the supermarket, you will see them displayed without refrigeration, which means they are prepared to have a stable shelf life even at room temperature.
The shelf life of these creamers can range from anywhere between 10 months to a couple of years. If you want to get the most out of them, it’s best to read the labels for storage instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do creamers need to be refrigerated all the time?
It depends on the type of creamer you are using. Some need to be refrigerated all the time, while some require refrigeration only once the seal is broken. It’s best to follow the guidelines mentioned by the brand. Alternatively, you can also ask your local supermarket for storage instructions.
2. How can you make your creamer last longer?
The only way to make a creamer last longer is with proper storage. Keep them refrigerated (preferably under 40˚F) and store them in airtight containers away from the sun. Refrigerators located inside pantries are the best place to give your creamer a longer shelf life.
3. Can you freeze your creamer?
If you do not want to carry around a liquid creamer for your coffee all day, you can pour the leftover creamer into an ice tray and let it freeze. Once it’s frozen, you can keep the creamer cubes in a ziplock freezer bag and enjoy a delicious cup of iced coffee whenever you want.
4. Why does a coffee creamer need to be refrigerated?
Creamers are often processed under high temperatures and pasteurized in order to kill all the bacteria that might harm the product. So when you open the container, it once again becomes vulnerable to bacteria and yeast. At this stage, refrigeration is the only way to rebuild your creamer’s original resistance that it had during packaging.
5. Do non-dairy creamers require refrigeration?
Sealed non-dairy creamers can be stored without refrigeration. But once opened, it’s best to refrigerate it for a longer shelf life. Although they might last a fair amount of time without refrigeration, proper storage has been proven to not only extend their shelf life but also keep them safer for consumption.
Bottom Line
Leaving out your coffee creamer for an hour might not instantly make it harmful, but it will certainly compromise the original taste. And for long-term storage solutions, follow our simple 3-step storage tips to keep your creamers fresh and delicious for a longer period. For more coffee drinking tips, check out how to froth creamer.
