If you forgot milk on the countertop, you may be wondering how long it lasts unrefrigerated. Toby Amidor, MS, RD, CDN nutrition expert at FoodNetwork.com and Wall Street Journal bestselling cookbook author, weighs in with the answer and provides some smart milk storage tips too.
How Long Can You Leave Milk Out of the Fridge?
You can leave milk out of the fridge at room temperature for up to two hours, according to the USDA. “Leaving milk out too long can potentially lead to foodborne illness,” Amidor explains. “Pathogenic microorganisms like to grow in temperatures between 40 to 140 degrees. If the temperature is over 90 degrees, bacteria tend to reproduce quicker and the time milk can be left out is a maximum of 1 hour.” The bottom line: when in doubt, toss it out.
Why Does Milk Spoil?
Milk naturally contains bacteria and if it is improperly stored or left out for too long, bacteria can grow more quickly and this overgrowth causes the milk to spoil, compromising the texture, flavor and quality of the milk. Amidor shares that opened milk can be stored in the refrigerator for seven days and unopened milk can be frozen for up to three months.
Do Alternative Milks Last Longer?
Alternative milks may last longer than dairy milk depending on how they are stored. “Aseptically or shelf stable plant-based beverages can be stored for several months (usually up to 6 months, unopened) depending on the brand,” Amidor says. “For unopened, refrigerated brands check the label. For plant-based beverages, use within 7 to 10 days.”
Be sure to check the packaging for recommended storage times and use-by dates to ensure the highest quality for that particular brand.
How to Keep Your Milk Fresher for Longer
To prevent your milk from spoiling so quickly, Amidor offers tips for keeping your milk fresher for longer.
• When grocery shopping, pick up milk and other dairy products at the end of your shopping trip so they stay as cool as possible until you get home.
• Once you get home, immediately place the milk in your fridge and store it at 40 degrees F or below.
• Store your milk in the back of your fridge where it’s coldest.
• Wait as long as possible to open your milk after you’ve bought it. As long as it’s sealed, it’ll stay fresher.
