Do Coconut Aminos Need to Be Refrigerated? Storing Essentials

Last Updated on September 16, 2024 by Shari Mason

Coconut aminos, now a hot favorite as a delicious and healthy **alternative to soy sauce**, comes from the sap of coconut trees. It adds a delightful, savory flavor to many of my dishes.

But do you know if coconut aminos need to be refrigerated?

Based on my practical storage knowledge, let’s delve into the recommended storage practices for coconut aminos.

Do Coconut Aminos Need To Be Refrigerated After Opening?

Coconut aminos [1], while not strictly requiring refrigeration after opening, greatly benefit from cooler storage conditions. Like several fermented condiments, it thrives best when kept in a cool, dark location. 

The refrigerator offers such an environment, minimizing exposure to heat and light, which can degrade its flavor over time. 

So, while it’s not a strict necessity, many, including myself, store coconut aminos in the fridge to maintain their fresh and savory-sweet taste.

Read:

• Is Coconut Milk Supposed To Be Chunky?
• Costco Coconut Shrimp Cooking Instructions
• Substitute For Soy Paste

What’s Coconut Aminos?

Coconut aminos is a savory sauce derived from the fermented sap of coconut palm trees. Rich in amino acids and a slightly sweet, umami flavor profile, it’s often used as a soy-free and gluten-free alternative to traditional soy sauce. 

“Coconut water is just the best for you; it’s always something we had in Brazil. Since I was a little girl, I’ve been drinking it.”

– Adriana Lima, Model

Besides the unique taste, coconut aminos have gained popularity among health enthusiasts due to their lower sodium content and natural production methods, making them a favored choice in many culinary dishes.

Can You Freeze Coconut Aminos? 

While coconut aminos can technically be frozen, doing so is not generally recommended. Freezing may alter its consistency and affect its overall flavor profile. 

The high salt [2] content in coconut aminos acts as a natural preservative, allowing it to have a long shelf life when stored in a cool, dark place or refrigerator. 

To maintain its best quality and taste, storing coconut aminos in the fridge is advisable rather than freezing.

Signs That It Has Gone Bad

1. Off-putting Smell: A rancid or sour odor that deviates from its usual savory-sweet aroma is a clear sign of spoilage.
2. Change in Color: While coconut aminos naturally darken over time, an unusual discoloration, like a cloudy appearance, can indicate it’s no longer suitable.
3. Mold Growth: The presence of mold, whether floating on top or sticking to the inside walls of the bottle, indicates contamination.
4. Change in Texture: If your coconut aminos become overly thick or develop a slimy texture, it’s a sign that it’s gone bad.
5. Taste: While it’s not recommended to taste something you suspect has gone bad, an off flavor, especially one that is too sour or bitter, can indicate spoilage.
6. Separation: While some separation can be expected if the layers don’t mix back together after shaking or if there’s unusual sediment at the bottom, it might be time to discard the bottle.

“Cherish the tropical essence of coconut aminos; refrigerate to preserve its island soul.”

– Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

Tips On How To Store Coco Aminos

1. Keep It Cool: While not always necessary to refrigerate, storing coconut aminos in the fridge after opening can extend its lifespan and keep it fresh for longer.
2. Seal Tightly: Always ensure that the bottle cap is screwed on tightly after each use to prevent air from entering, which can expedite spoilage.
3. Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use clean utensils every time you dip into the bottle. Introducing food particles can lead to faster spoilage.
4. Store Upright: Always keep the bottle upright to minimize the chances of leakage and air exposure.
5. Keep Away from Direct Sunlight: Sunlight can degrade the quality of coconut aminos. Store in a dark place or at least away from direct sun exposure.
6. Monitor “Best By” Date: While the product might still be good after the indicated date, it’s a good practice to check its condition once you approach or surpass this date.
7. Avoid Freezing: Freezing can alter the consistency and flavor of coconut aminos—Refrigerate or store in a cool, dark pantry for best results.
8. Use Within Reasonable Time: Even if it’s well-stored, try to use your coconut aminos within several months of opening for the best flavor and quality.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

While coconut aminos do not strictly require refrigeration, it’s beneficial to do so, especially after opening. Storing them in the fridge can extend their freshness and overall shelf life. 

The cooler environment preserves the unique flavor profile and prevents potential spoilage. So, for optimal taste and longevity, keeping your coconut aminos chilled is a wise choice. 

Always practice proper storage habits to enjoy this savory condiment to its fullest.

References:

1. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-coconut-aminos
2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/146677