Can You Safely Drink Milk After the Sell-By Date?
Question: My teenage daughter refuses to drink milk after the "sell by" date on the carton, but I’ve always felt it was safe for at least a few days after that. Can you drink milk after the sell-by date?
Answer: Yes, milk that has been properly stored will generally remain drinkable for about one week after the "sell-by" date on the package.
That’s the general case, mind you — as the Dairy Council of California points out, several factors will influence what happens in your particular fridge once the milk’s sell-by date has passed.
Keeping your milk continuously refrigerated and sealing the container well after each use will go a long way toward keeping your milk fresh. So too will making sure that the temperature of your refrigerator remains at or below 40° Fahrenheit at all times.
If milk develops an off odor, flavor or appearance, you should always discard it.
(Note: This refers to “sell-by” terminology used in the United States; practices in other countries may differ.)
See Also:
Can You Freeze Milk Successfully?
Are Eggs Still Safe After the Expiration Date?
Expiration Dates: Should You Pay Attention?
