Coconut water is a unique, healthy, and refreshing drink that happens to be gaining in popularity. It’s not just for tropical destinations anymore! Coconut water can be found in convenient packaging at most grocery stores these days. One of the things you may wonder is if coconut water goes bad.
So, does coconut water go bad? Yes, coconut water does go bad. Coconut water will eventually spoil when it is not refrigerated, and when it has been opened and has been left out. This process can be delayed by storing the coconut water in a refrigerator after opening it.
What Is Coconut Water?
Coconut water is a natural, healthy drink that is made by squeezing the flesh of the coconut to extract its juice. Coconut water is the liquid inside a young green coconut. It tastes good and has many health benefits.
The liquid in the coconut is rich in minerals and electrolytes. Coconut water provides an alternate source of hydration for people who do not like drinking plain tap water or other kinds of bottled waters. It can be beneficial for people who are on a diet because it does not contain any sugar or calories.
Coconut water contains potassium which balances the body’s pH levels and sodium which helps to maintain fluid balance in the body. It also contains phosphorus which builds bones, teeth, and DNA; iron which helps transport oxygen throughout the body; calcium which helps form strong teeth and bones; magnesium which helps regulate muscle contractions; and zinc which aids in cell growth.
How Long Does Unopened Coconut Water Last?
There are many factors that can impact the lifespan of coconut water. Factors like the type of coconut water, storage conditions, and time since opening can all affect how long it lasts.
However, when it comes to unopened coconut water, the shelf life is only about one year. The reason why coconut water lasts for a long time is that it has a high acidity level.
How Long Will Opened Coconut Water Last?
The shelf life of coconut water will depend on a few factors such as how much bacteria is in the air and the temperature, as well as how quickly bacteria spreads.
For instance, if you have an already opened bottle of coconut water that has been left at room temperature for two hours, then it will only last about four hours. If refrigerated or kept cold to slow down bacterial growth further, then it can last up to 5 days.
Therefore, coconut water should be consumed within two days of opening if refrigerated because it will spoil faster.
How to Store Coconut Water
Coconut water should be stored at room temperature or refrigerator. If it’s stored at room temperature, it should not be placed next to direct sunlight as this would make it taste sweeter and affect its nutritional content. The best place for storing coconut water at room temperature is in the pantry or cupboard.
Another place to store coconut water is by storing it in your refrigerator because this will help keep the drink fresh for longer periods of time. Coconut water doesn’t need to be kept at a certain temperature or humidity level so there’s no need to worry about whether or not it’ll get ruined if you store it incorrectly. Just make sure that it is covered tight to prevent air and moisture from leaking in and damaging it.
How to Know When Coconut Water is Bad?
Coconut water is a healthy drink, but if it’s gone bad it will start to smell sour.
When coconut water is fresh, it has a sweet taste and the smell of fresh coconut. Spoiled coconut water will start to smell sour and have an acid taste.
The time it takes for coconut water to spoil depends on the temperature. For example, if it’s cold, it can take months to spoil, but if it is exposed to heat for too long, the drink will spoil within a few days.
When coconut water is exposed to heat, the drink begins to rot from the inside out. It starts by appearing more yellow in color and then eventually smells sour and has a different taste.
In addition, when coconut water is spoiled there are white strands that form clumps in the liquid.
Will Drinking Bad Coconut Water Make You Sick?
Yes, drinking bad coconut water can make you sick. The reason for this is that when a coconut is cut open it becomes a moist environment. If the coconut water is not consumed within a few hours it will spoil and become rotten.
Spoiled coconut water can cause food poisoning if it is consumed. Coconut water is also more acidic than other beverages, so some people may find that their stomachs are more sensitive to it.
Can You Freeze Coconut Water?
The answer is yes, but you should take some precautions.
The coconut water will indeed freeze if left out in cold enough temperatures for a long enough period of time.
However, the freezing will cause the coconut water’s consistency and taste to change. Some of the changes include a more diluted flavor with a less concentrated consistency. Coconut water can be frozen in bags or containers to preserve its flavor and consistency better than if it were simply left out in ice cubes or larger blocks.
Conclusion
Coconut water is a refreshing drink that can be enjoyed throughout the day. It’s naturally rich in potassium, Vitamin C, and other minerals. However, like any other food, it will go bad. Where and how you store it will determine how long it will last before it spoils.