How long does milk last in the fridge?
Quick answer
- In the fridge
- Until the use-by date on the carton
- In the freezer
- About 3 months
- In the pantry
- Shelf-stable, unopened: 6–12 months
Sources: USDA FoodKeeper · Last reviewed October 1, 2026
Fresh cow's milk lasts about 5–7 days in the refrigerator after opening, when stored at or below 4°C (40°F). Unopened cartons usually keep until the printed best-before date, often a few days after purchase. UHT and shelf-stable milk last months unopened, but behave like fresh milk once you crack the seal. Plant milks — oat, almond, soy — follow similar rules: about 7 days once opened, longer when unopened and refrigerated. The smell and consistency are more reliable than the date stamp, especially after several days of opening.
How to store milk
Store milk on a middle shelf of the fridge, not the door, where the temperature swings every time someone opens it. Aim for 1–4°C (34–39°F). Keep the original container tightly sealed; pouring milk into a different jug shortens its life because of cross-contamination. Don't return milk that's been left on the counter — sustained warming accelerates bacterial growth. Open milk should sit toward the back of the shelf where it's coldest. Freezing works in a pinch (up to 3 months) but expect texture changes after thawing — fine for cooking, less appealing in coffee.
- Keep below 4°C on a middle shelf
- Store in the original container, tightly sealed
- Place toward the back, away from the door
- Don't return warmed milk to the fridge
- Freeze if you won't use it within a week
Signs it has gone bad
- Sour, off smell
- Lumps or curdling when poured
- Yellowish or off-color tint
- Thickened texture
Frequently asked questions
How long does milk last after opening?
Most fresh cow's milk lasts 5–7 days in the fridge once opened, when kept below 4°C.
Can you drink milk past the expiration date?
Sometimes — best-before dates are quality indicators, not safety cutoffs. Trust the smell and look more than the print.
Can milk be frozen?
Yes, for up to 3 months. Expect texture changes after thawing — it's better for cooking and baking than for drinking straight.