How to store Milk
In the fridge: 7 days
In the freezer: 90 days
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.
How to store it
- 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
Signs it has gone bad
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.