Does Coconut Oil Have Expiry Dates? (What We Found)

Does Coconut Oil Have Expiry Dates?

Quick answer: Yes, coconut oil has expiry dates. However, this date is dependent on the mode of extracting the oil from its fruit.

Coconut oil is one of the most popular oils in the world. Who wouldn’t know oil that can be used for cooking, skin, and hair care? Over the years, there have been people who have testified to the benefits of using coconut oil for various purposes.

Known to many, coconut oil is extracted from the fruit, coconut. The extraction of the oil from the skin of the coconut can be done via a different process, and this sometimes determines the effectiveness of the oil.

Although a lot of people know and can attest to the wonders of coconut oil, one question that is commonly asked is about the expiry dates of the coconut oil.  Does the coconut oil have expiry dates? Does it not? How long can it stay for?

Does the coconut oil have expiry dates?

Yes. The coconut oil has expiry dates and they can go bad, whether they are placed in a bottle or left raw. However, the longevity of your coconut oil is dependent on the process of extracting the oil. Hold on, we will explain!

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There are two types of coconut oil, according to its extraction process, these are virgin coconut oil and refined coconut oil. The virgin coconut oil is extracted in the most natural form, to retain its nutrients, scents, and flavor.

This also makes virgin coconut oil the right one for the skin, medicinal uses, and hair. However, the refined coconut oil has a neutral scent and flavor; it is also extracted from copra, also known as the kernel of the coconut.

The refined coconut oil is, however, the best form for cooking, this is because the refined oil has a smoking point of 440 degrees F, unlike the virgin which has a low smoking point of 350 degrees F.

Concerning longevity, refined coconut oil can last up to 18 months, however, virgin coconut oil can last up to 5 years, the reason isn’t farfetched.

How To Identify An Expired Coconut Oil

While some people know the coconut oil does have an expiry date, not many can identify oil that is going bad. Below are five signs you can identify when your coconut oil has gone bad.

1. Change In Color

Color is very important, especially for consumable products (food), when your food is going bad, the first noticeable change it gives is the color. Coconut oil is known to have a clear color, almost similar to plain water.

However, once the color changes to yellow, then it is an indication that your oil has gone bad. Healthy coconut oil should have plain color.    

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2. Change In Texture

The texture of the coconut oil is another area to get your indications from. Healthy coconut oil should have a smooth texture when you notice your coconut oil has changed its texture from being smooth to being chunky, and then you should know your coconut oil has expired.

3. Black Spots

This can also be the appearance of mold on your coconut oil. Black spots or mold on your coconut oil are a warning that your oil has expired. The oil should be discarded once this is identified, as the mold might have contaminated your oil.

If you notice the mold on one part of the oil, you can get rid of the mold or spots, so it doesn’t affect the other part. However, we recommend that you discontinue the use of the entire oil.  

4. Strong Sour Scent

When we talk about smell here, we aren’t talking about the difference in the smell of refined and virgin coconut oil. Expired coconut oil gives off a sour or bitter smell; it is usually so strong too. If you notice this change in your oil, we advise that you discard it.

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5. Sour Taste

A sour taste is a sure sign that it is time to discontinue the coconut oil. Coconut oil in a good condition will have a coconut natural flavor. However, it becomes sour when it is no longer good for use.

How To Properly Store The Coconut Oil

The coconut oil is best stored in a cool, dry place. Keep the oil in a cupboard or pantry. We recommend a storage space that is below 75 degrees F, this will prevent your oil from melting.

The oil can also be stored in the fridge or freezer, however, this should not be done all the time, because it can become hard and make using the oil difficult.

Conclusion

Although there are so many benefits to using coconut oil, it will be disastrous to make use of expired coconut oil. All of the signs provided above will help you identify an expired coconut oil.

For cooking, refined coconut oil is ideal, however for beauty, and health, we recommend virgin coconut oil.

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