Once opened, milk generally lasts 4 to 7 days past its printed date if refrigerated. Unopened, whole milk lasts 5 to 7 days, reduced-fat and skim last about 7 days, and non-fat and lactose-free can last 7 to 10 days past the printed date.
How Long Milk Actually Lasts (and How to Store It Right)
Expiration dates on most foods are just estimates, but milk has one of the shorter shelf lives of anything in the fridge. So how long does it actually last, and how can you keep it fresh longer?
Know Your Milk's Real Shelf Life
Decode the Date Label
'Best if used by' indicates quality, not safety — food is still safe to eat after that date. 'Expires on' marks when deterioration begins and the product may become unsafe. 'Sell by' is a retailer cue for when a product should leave the shelf, not a safety deadline for your fridge at home.
Store It in the Right Spot
Milk should be stored at 38 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, in its original container, away from the door — door shelves expose it to warm air every time the fridge opens, which encourages bacterial growth. If milk sits unrefrigerated for more than two hours, it's no longer considered safe to drink.
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