Many of us will drink milk at some point during the day, whether that’s putting it in tea or pouring over cereal. However, because it’s a dairy product, it unfortunately doesn’t stay fresh for very long once it’s been cracked open.
Generally speaking, it can last four to seven days past its printed date when refrigerated. Unopened whole milk can last five to seven days, while reduced-fat and skim milk can last over seven days. But according to experts at Wheeldon Brothers, there’s one simple technique that can make your milk go even longer without curdling.
Getting the most out of your milk starts when you’re at the supermarket, so the experts recommend always choose milk with the longest shelf life.
And always put it in your trolley last, as this will give it the best chance of staying at a stable temperature. Once home, it’s crucial to put the milk in the fridge immediately.
While many people store milk in the fridge door, it’s better to place it on a shelf where temperatures are cooler and more consistent.
The experts said: “Dairy products should ideally be stored at the back of the fridge, as the front and door are exposed to warmer air each time the door is opened.”
When using milk, return it directly to the fridge as soon as you’re finished. The experts said: “It’s best not to let it sit on the counter for too long.”
Once opened, milk can last for a week or two without curdling, but a simple hack can extend its life even further.
They added: “Adding a pinch of salt to the carton and shaking it to distribute the salt evenly can help.
“Salt minerals slow the souring of milk by drawing out water molecules, which lowers water activity and, in turn, inhibits bacterial growth.”
If your milk does sour, it will taste unpleasant – but it’s not dangerous. You can avoid wasting it by using it as a substitute for buttermilk in pancakes, scones, or bread.
And if you’re concerned about not using the milk in time, you can freeze it. Frozen milk can be stored for up to three months, and while the texture and taste may change slightly, it will be safe to drink and suitable for cooking or baking.
Just ensure the container or carton you use for freezing has enough space at the top to allow for expansion as it freezes. To thaw milk, place it in the fridge, and if it separates, simply beat it with an electric whisk.