The short answer: Opened milk keeps about 5 to 7 days in the fridge. Unopened, it is usually good until the date on the carton and often a few days after, if it has stayed at 40°F (4°C) or colder.
How long milk lasts
- Fridge, unopened: Until the printed date, often a few days beyond
- Fridge, opened: About 5 to 7 days
- Freezer: 1 to 3 months for best quality; texture may separate
- Out on the counter: No more than 2 hours
How to tell milk has gone off
- A sour smell, even a faint one
- Lumps, curdling or a thickened texture
- A sour or bitter taste
- A bulging or swollen carton
How to make it last longer
- Keep it on a shelf, not the door; the door is the warmest part of the fridge.
- Put it back right after pouring.
- Freeze what you will not finish, leaving an inch of space for it to expand, and shake it after thawing.
Common questions
Can you drink milk after the date on the carton?
Often yes for a few days if it was kept cold and smells and tastes normal. The date is the maker's estimate of quality, not a safety cut-off, but if in doubt, throw it out.
Can you freeze milk?
Yes. Leave room in the container for expansion. It may separate when thawed, which is fine for cooking and baking.
General guidance only. These times are for food bought fresh and kept at 40°F (4°C) in the fridge or 0°F (-18°C) in the freezer. Your own fridge, the packaging and the state of the food always come first, and when in doubt, throw it out. The official US chart is on FoodSafety.gov.
Stop guessing
Grocerr AI suggests a use-by date when you add food to your pantry, reminds you before it goes off and shows what to use first. Get it free on the App Store.