Does Aquafaba Expire?
Yes. Aquafaba does expire. Aquafaba lasts for about a week when stored in a sealed container in the fridge. After that, it starts to spoil and should be thrown out.
What is Aquafaba?
If you’re into vegan cooking or baking, you’ve probably heard of aquafaba. This magical ingredient is the liquid that comes from a can of chickpeas (or other legumes) and can be whipped up into a fluffy meringue or used as an egg substitute in recipes.
Can I Still Eat Expired Aquafaba?
Yes, as long as there are no signs of spoilage, such as mold or funky smell, Aquafaba should be safe to eat. If you’ve got store-bought aquafaba, check the expiration date on the package. You can still eat the food after the “sell by” date has passed, but the quality may not be as good as before that date. Similarly, if your aquafaba has been sitting in the fridge for a while, it may not be as fresh as it once was.
What’s the Shelf-Life of Aquafaba?
Aquafaba is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, from vegan meringues and marshmallows to mayonnaise and baked goods. But how long does it last?
The shelf-life of aquafaba depends on how it is stored. If you have made homemade aquafaba, it will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
If you have store-bought aquafaba, the shelf-life will depend on the expiration date on the can. Generally, unopened cans of aquafaba can last up to a year, while opened cans will last for about a week in the refrigerator.
To store aquafaba properly, transfer it to an airtight container and label it with the date. This will help you keep track of how long it has been stored. If you are freezing aquafaba, make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave some room for expansion.
Now, while expired aquafaba may not necessarily make you sick, it’s important to keep in mind that consuming expired food puts you at risk of certain health problems. Always check the expiration date before using aquafaba.
Does Expired Aquafaba Get Moldy?
Yes, canned chickpeas and its aquafaba can grow mold if they are not stored properly or if they are past their expiration date. If the canned chickpeas develop an off odor, flavor, or appearance, or if mold appears, they should be discarded. It is also important to discard all canned chickpeas from cans or packages that are leaking, rusting, bulging, or severely dented.
When to Discard Aquafaba?
What does aquafaba taste like? Aquafaba has a slightly savory taste that is similar to a bean milkshake. However, when baked into a recipe, the taste is undetectable. So, if the aquafaba has a foul smell, funny taste, or slimy appearance, it’s best to discard it. So, while it’s probably okay to use that leftover aquafaba in your baking, it’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution and use fresh ingredients whenever possible.
How to Prolong the Shelf-Life of Aquafaba?
If you’re wondering how to prolong the shelf-life of aquafaba, there are a few things you can do to keep it fresh for longer. Here are some tips:
Store Aquafaba Properly
Whether you have homemade aquafaba or store-bought, it’s essential to keep it in an airtight container. This will prevent any odors or bacteria from getting in and spoiling the liquid. You can use a mason jar, plastic container, or even a ziplock bag to store your aquafaba.
Keep Aquafaba in the Refrigerator
Aquafaba can stay fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator. Keeping it in the fridge will slow down the growth of bacteria and ensure it stays fresh for longer. Make sure to place your container in the back of the fridge, where the temperature is the coldest.
Freeze Aquafaba
If you have a surplus of aquafaba, you can freeze it for later use. Freezing aquafaba is an excellent way to extend its shelf-life. Pour the liquid into an ice cube tray and freeze it. Once it’s frozen, transfer the cubes to a Ziplock bag and store them in the freezer for up to four months. This way, you can have aquafaba on hand whenever you need it.
Use Garbanzo Beans
If you’re making homemade aquafaba, use garbanzo beans with no added salt or preservatives. This will ensure that your aquafaba is free from any harmful chemicals or additives that can cause health problems.
Avoid BPA
When choosing canned garbanzo beans, opt for BPA-free cans. BPA is a harmful chemical found in some food containers that can cause health problems. Choosing BPA-free cans will ensure that your aquafaba is safe to consume.
By following these tips, you can prolong the shelf-life of your aquafaba and have it on hand whenever you need it. Whether you store it in the refrigerator or freezer, make sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent any contamination. With proper storage and handling, your aquafaba can stay fresh and ready to use for months to come.
Don’t Store Aquafaba at Room Temperature
Aquafaba should not be stored at room temperature for more than two hours. If you are using aquafaba in a recipe, use it immediately or store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
What’s the Best Substitute for Aquafaba?
If you’re out of aquafaba or looking for a substitute for your vegan baking, there are several options available that can work just as well. Here are some of the best substitutes for aquafaba:
Egg Whites
Egg whites are a great substitute for aquafaba in recipes that require whipped egg whites, such as meringues and pavlovas. However, keep in mind that egg whites are not vegan and may not work as well in recipes that require a stabilizing ingredient.
Vegan Egg Replacers
There are many vegan egg replacers available on the market that can work as a substitute for aquafaba, such as Ener-G Egg Replacer, Bob’s Red Mill Egg Replacer, and Follow Your Heart VeganEgg. These products are often made from potato starch, tapioca starch, and baking powder, and can be used in a variety of recipes.
How long do canned chickpeas last after the expiration date?
Canned chickpeas can last beyond their expiration date if they are stored properly. However, it is recommended that you consume them within 2-3 years of the manufacture date. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as a foul odor or mold, discard them immediately.