How to Store Milk | Shelf Life & Spoilage Signs
Quick Storage Facts
| Storage Method | Duration | Safety | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| refrigerator | 5-7 days after opening or past printed date | ✅ | Store in original container on refrigerator shelf, not door |
| freezer | 1-3 months | ⚠️ | Texture may change, best used for cooking after thawing |
| room Temperature | 2 hours maximum | ❌ | Discard milk left out longer than 2 hours |
| after Opening | 5-7 days | ✅ | Keep tightly sealed when not in use |
Signs of Spoilage
- •Sour or unpleasant smell
- •Curdled texture or lumps
- •Yellowish discoloration
- •Bloated or bulging container
- •Bitter or sour taste
- •Visible mold growth (especially around spout)
Storage & Reheating Tips
- •Store milk in the main body of the refrigerator, not in the door where temperature fluctuates
- •Keep milk containers tightly sealed when not in use
- •Return milk to the refrigerator promptly after use
- •Use clean utensils when pouring milk to prevent contamination
- •When freezing milk, leave some headspace in the container as milk expands when frozen
- •Thaw frozen milk in the refrigerator, not at room temperature
- •Shelf-stable UHT milk can be stored at room temperature until opened, then refrigerate
Food Safety Reminder
When in doubt, throw it out! Food can harbor harmful bacteria without visible signs of spoilage.
Frequently Asked Questions