How long can pasteurized milk be refrigerated?
The shop where I get milk (homogenized, pasteurized) is quite far from my home. So I would like to buy more milk per visit. Would like some expert advice on storing and handling the extra milk. How long can I use it safely? Would boiling this milk increase its fridge-life?
Thank you for your guidance.
Regards, Simi
Best Answer
Per Still Tasty, well refrigerated, milk should last about 5-7 days. Note that this almost certainly assumes that the milk has been pasteurized.
It is theoretically possible that you could periodically reboil milk, and then try to get it cooled to refrigerator temperatures rapidly, to increase its life. I suspect that the benefit would not justify the effort.
You can also freeze milk, if you have a freezer available. It will last essentially indefinitely (there probably is a limit due to oxidation of the milk fat, but that is a slow process), and will still be quite suitable for cooking.
Depending on availability and how you use it, you may also wish to consider shelf stable milk products like dry powdered milk, condensed milk, or sweetened condensed milk.
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Quick Answer about "How long can pasteurized milk be refrigerated?"
Under ideal refrigeration, most pasteurized milk will remain fresh for 2-5 days after its sell-by date. Once opened, pasteurized milk should be used as soon as possible for best quality and taste.How long does milk last after pasteurization?
If pasteurized milk is kept properly refrigerated, it can last anywhere from 12 to 21 days after processing; you can generally count on milk to remain fresh from two to five days after the sell-by date on the carton. The colder the storage conditions, the longer milk will last.How long does pasteurized milk last unopened?
Most supermarket milk has been pasteurized and if unopened can keep in the fridge for around a week. Milk that is heated to temperatures above 135\xbaC (275 \xb0F) can keep as long as six months at room temperature if unopened.Can pasteurized milk be kept longer and is safer to drink?
Pasteurization destroys disease-causing bacteria and extends the shelf life of milk. However, pasteurized milk can readily spoil and could cause foodborne illness if not properly protected and handled. Maintaining the Safety of Milk: Refrigeration is the single most important factor in maintaining the safety of milk.You've Been Storing Milk Wrong This Entire Time
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