Can you eat expired milk?
Quick Answer
No
Consuming expired milk can lead to food poisoning due to the growth of bacteria. It’s best to discard milk past its expiration date.
What Is It?
Expired milk refers to milk that has gone past the ‘sell by’ or ‘use by’ date indicated on its packaging. It may develop an off smell, taste, and texture due to the growth of bacteria.
How to Tell
Signs of expired milk include a sour smell, a thick or clumpy texture, and a change in color.
Why It Can Be Risky
Consuming expired milk can pose several health risks.
- Food poisoning: The bacteria in spoiled milk can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea.
- Lactose intolerance: People with lactose intolerance may experience severe digestive issues after consuming expired milk.
Safe Method?
Always check the expiration date before consuming milk. If it’s past the date or if the milk shows signs of spoilage, it’s best to throw it away.
Can You Just Cut It Off?
The ‘sell by’ date is a guide for retailers, while the ‘use by’ date indicates when the milk is likely to start going bad. Milk should ideally be consumed within 5-7 days of the ‘sell by’ date.
Safe Alternatives
If you frequently find yourself with expired milk, consider alternatives like non-dairy milks (almond, soy, oat) which have longer shelf lives, or powdered or UHT milk which can be stored for longer periods.
Storage Tips
Store milk in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below.’, “Don’t leave milk out of the fridge for more than two hours.”, ‘Keep milk in its original container to avoid contamination.