Avocado oil is a popular cooking oil known for its high smoke point and healthy monounsaturated fat content. It’s widely used for various cooking methods like sautéing, grilling, and baking.
However, like all oils, it does have a shelf life and can go bad over time. Understanding the signs of spoilage and proper storage can help you ensure that your avocado oil is fresh and safe to use.
Avocado oil can go bad due to factors such as exposure to air, heat, and light, which can cause oxidation and spoilage. The oil may develop a rancid taste and smell and lose its original color and flavor. Additionally, if the oil has been contaminated with bacteria or other substances, it can become harmful to consume.
The average Shelf-life for prominent brands of avocado oil
| Companies producing avocado oil | Unopened | Opened | In Refrigerator |
| California Ranch | 18-20 months | 6-12 months | around 24 months |
| Napa Valley Naturals | 18-24 months | 8-12 months | around 24 months |
| Chosen Foods | 18-22 months | 6-9 months | around 24 months |
| La Tourangelle | 18-24 months | 6-11 months | around 24 months |
How long can you store Avocado oil?
Avocado oil can typically be stored for 18 to 22 months if kept in a cool, dark place and tightly sealed. The exact shelf life of avocado oil depends on several factors, such as the quality of the oil, how it was stored, and how it was processed. Proper storage, such as in an airtight container in a pantry or cupboard away from light and heat, can help extend the shelf life of avocado oil. It’s also important to check for any signs of spoilage before using the oil, such as a rancid taste or smell. If the oil has gone bad, it should be discarded.
What happens if you use expired Avocado oil?
I used to be extremely vigilant about the expiration dates of my food. I would make sure to store canned goods in the freezer before the “Use By” date to ensure their freshness. Similarly, if the “Best If Used By” date on my oil had passed, I would immediately discard it, believing that it was no longer safe to consume. However, upon further investigation into the various “expiration” labels on food products, I came to understand that these dates are often overly conservative, and that food can last longer than I had previously believed.
The USDA states that expiration dates are more concerned with food quality than food safety. Poultry, eggs, dairy, canned foods, and even food oils are not required to have expiration dates by federal law. The only food item that is required to have an expiration date is infant formula, which is the only exception.
Best Before/ If Used by Date: This indicates the optimal period during which a product will have its peak quality in terms of taste and texture. Consuming the product after this date is still safe, but its quality will decline. This type of date is commonly found on shelf-stable items such as sauces, dry goods, canned goods, and oils.
Using avocado oil that has passed its “best before” date is generally considered safe, as long as it hasn’t exceeded the date by a significant amount of time. Just be mindful and make sure to check the freshness before using it.
How to tell if Avocado oil has gone bad?
To determine if avocado oil has gone bad, there are several signs to look for:
- Smell: A strong, rancid odor is a clear sign that the oil has gone bad. Rancid oil has a pungent, unpleasant odor that is distinct from its original, fresh smell.
- Taste: Taste a small amount of the oil. If it tastes bitter, sour, or like cardboard, it’s likely gone bad. Fresh avocado oil has a mild, nutty flavor that is palatable.
- Appearance: Fresh avocado oil is typically a golden-green color. If the oil appears darker or discolored, it may be a sign that the oil has gone bad. Rancid oil may also have a cloudy appearance.
- Texture: If the oil has thickened or solidified, it may have gone bad. Fresh avocado oil is typically smooth and fluid.
Note that these are merely general suggestions and might not always work. It is advised to stay on the side of caution and toss out any avocado oil that you are unsure of whether or not has gone bad.
What does rancid Avocado oil taste like?
Rancid avocado oil has an off taste and odor. It can taste bitter, sour, or like cardboard. The oil may also have a strong, unpleasant odor, and its color may have changed. When avocado oil goes rancid, its flavor and nutritional value deteriorate, making it less desirable for cooking and consumption. If you suspect that your avocado oil has gone rancid, it’s best to discard it and purchase a fresh bottle.
Should Avocado oil be refrigerated?
Avocado oil does not need to be refrigerated. Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a long shelf life, making it suitable for high-heat cooking. However, it is recommended to store avocado oil in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources to extend its shelf life. If you want to prolong the freshness of your avocado oil, you can refrigerate it. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before using it for cooking as it may become cloudy when cold.
Does Avocado oil Freeze Well?
Avocado oil, like other oils, does not freeze well. When oils freeze, their molecular structure changes, which can affect the texture, flavor, and overall quality of the oil. Avocado oil can become thick and cloudy when frozen, and its flavor and aroma may also change. If stored for an extended period of time, it may develop off-flavors and an unpleasant odor.
How To Freeze Avocado oil effectively?
Freezing avocado oil is not recommended, as it can cause the oil to become cloudy, solidify, and affect its texture and quality. If you must freeze avocado oil, here are a few steps that may help:
- Store the oil in an airtight container: Use a container that seals well to prevent air from entering and causing the oil to go bad.
- Freeze in small quantities: Freeze the oil in small quantities, so that it can thaw quickly and evenly when you need it.
- Label the container: Label the container with the date it was frozen to help keep track of its freshness.
Note: Even with these steps, it’s still possible that the oil’s quality may be affected by freezing.
Thawing Frozen Avocado Oil
Thawing frozen avocado oil can be a bit tricky, as using high heat or quick methods such as a microwave can result in the oil losing quality and flavor. To ensure that your avocado oil remains fresh and retains its beneficial properties, it is best to thaw it slowly and at a low temperature.
The most effective and safest method of thawing avocado oil is to simply place the container in the refrigerator. This method takes some time, usually several hours to overnight, but it is worth the wait. By thawing it in the refrigerator, you can be sure that the oil will retain its quality and nutritional value.
Another option is to place the container of frozen avocado oil in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until the oil has thawed. This method is faster than using the refrigerator but still much slower than using a microwave. It is important to use cold water instead of warm water as warm water can cause the oil to start degrading and losing quality.
How Long Can You Freeze Avocado oil?
The exact length of time that you can freeze avocado oil depends on several factors, including the type of container used, the temperature of the freezer, and the oil’s exposure to light and air.
However, it’s best to use avocado oil within its shelf life, which is typically 6-12 months, and store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. If you must freeze avocado oil, it’s best to use it within a few months of freezing.
Can You Refreeze Avocado oil?
Refreezing avocado oil is not recommended. Refreezing can cause the oil to become cloudy, solidify, and affect its texture and quality. This can lead to the formation of solid particles and a decrease in fluidity, negatively impacting its cooking and flavor characteristics.
If you have thawed avocado oil and have not used it, it’s best to use it promptly within its shelf life, which is typically 6-12 months.
What makes Avocado oil go bad?
Avocado oil can go bad due to the following reasons:
- Exposure to light, heat, and air: Prolonged exposure to light, heat, and air can cause avocado oil to go rancid.
- Age: Over time, avocado oil can lose its freshness and become rancid.
- Improper storage: Improper storage, such as storing avocado oil in a container that is not airtight, can cause it to go bad.
- Contamination: Contaminants such as dust, bacteria, or other oils can cause avocado oil to go bad.
Note: Rancid avocado oil will have a strong, unpleasant odor and taste and should be discarded.
What can you do with outdated Avocado oil?
Here are some things you can do with old avocado oil:
- Use it for cleaning: Avocado oil can be used as a natural cleaner for wood surfaces and stainless steel appliances.
- Fry with it: Expired avocado oil may have lost some of its freshness and flavor, but it can still be used for cooking, especially for high-heat applications like frying and roasting, where its high smoke point is utilized.
- Composting: Avocado oil can be added to your compost pile as a source of organic matter.
- Fuel: Avocado oil can be used as a biofuel in diesel engines.
Note: Always check the color, odor and consistency of the oil before using it for anything. If it appears spoiled, it’s best to discard it.
What are the best alternatives for avocado oil?
If you are looking for alternatives to avocado oil, some options include:
- Olive oil – a versatile and flavorful oil, widely used in Mediterranean cooking.
- Coconut oil – has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for high-heat cooking.
- Grapeseed oil – a light, neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point, making it ideal for stir-frying and deep-frying.
- Canola oil – has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it a versatile choice for cooking and baking.
- Almond oil – has a light, nutty flavor and is high in monounsaturated fats, making it a healthy choice for low to medium heat cooking.
The choice of oil depends on personal preference, cooking method, and desired flavor, and nutritional properties.
Things not to do with outdated avocado oil
Here are some things you should avoid when using expired avocado oil:
Consuming: Expired oil can contain harmful bacteria and other contaminants, making it unsafe to consume.
Using as a salad dressing: Expired oil can have an off flavor and smell, ruining the taste of your salad.
Using as a skin or hair treatment: Expired oil can cause skin irritation or breakouts, and is not recommended for topical use.
Health benefits of using fresh avocado oil
Fresh avocado oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, specifically oleic acid, which is good for heart health. Additionally, it contains high levels of antioxidants and vitamin E, which help to protect the skin from damage caused by UV radiation and free radicals. Avocado oil is also a source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure, and has anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve joint pain and improve overall skin health.
Symptoms if you used spoiled Avocado oil
Consuming spoiled avocado oil can cause:
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Fatigue It is important to always check the expiration date and properly store oils to prevent spoilage. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention.
