How long milk lasts depends on the amount of fat and lactose in the milk. Whole milk may only last 5 days after the expiration date. However, lactose-free or fat-free milk may last as many as 10 days after the expiration date. If the milk expired more than a week ago, it’s generally a good idea to throw it out, even if it looks normal and doesn’t smell bad.
Even if the milk otherwise looks okay, if it smells so bad that you pull back when sniffing it, you’d be better off not to drink it. If you have a hard time telling if it smells off, get someone else to smell it, or use other methods to examine or test the milk to be sure.
If you notice any lumps in the milk, it has gone bad. You may have to slosh the milk around in the container to see these, as lumps typically settle to the bottom. You can also examine the interior of the milk container. If there is solid residue on the inside of the container, the milk may be bad.
If you have a hard time identifying the color of the milk, set a white sheet of paper behind or next to the glass and compare. If the milk has a yellowish tint, it’s likely bad.
If you live with your family or with roommates, it may not be possible for you to determine whether the milk was left out. Just ask around and try to get the best information.
Test only a small amount so you can use the remaining milk if it’s still good.
If you’re not sure how long to heat the milk, start with 30 seconds. If the milk isn’t hot after 30 seconds, heat it for another 30 seconds.
Milk curdles because the high acidity in the soured milk causes proteins in the milk to bond together, creating lumps. It’s normal for the milk to have a thin skin on top when heated. That doesn’t necessarily mean the milk is bad. However, when you remove the skin, the heated milk underneath will be a thin liquid if it’s still good.
Generally, don’t use the baking soda for this test if it’s past the expiration date on the container.
Even if your milk otherwise looks or smells fine, don’t drink it if the baking soda bubbles.
Storing your milk in the back of the fridge will ensure it remains cold. If you keep your milk in the door, it will be frequently exposed to varying temperatures as the door is opened and closed. This could reduce the usable life of your milk.
If your milk is contained in a clear container, keep it in the back of the fridge shielded by other items to reduce light exposure.
If the original container is damaged, transfer it to a pitcher or other container with a secure lid. Don’t leave your milk in an open pitcher or glass, even in the refrigerator. Write the date from the original container on the new one. If the cap is loose, place a piece of plastic or wax paper over the cap and secure the cap over top. That will help ensure that your container is as airtight as possible.
To thaw frozen milk, place it in the refrigerator or run cool water over the jug or carton. [19] X Trustworthy Source Dairy Council of California Resource center focused on providing nutrition education to help consumers make healthy choices about eating and lifestyle habits. Go to source When you freeze milk, it changes the texture and color slightly. It may even have the consistency and color of soured milk when thawed, although it will still technically be good. The taste also may be less desirable. You can freeze most types of milk, including non-dairy milks and buttermilk.
