Milk
The answer
Opened milk lasts about 1 week in the fridge — often a few days past the printed date if kept at 40°F or below.
Caution Store milk on a fridge shelf, not the door, where temperature swings most.
How long it keeps
Fridge (40°F) ~1 week after opening safe window
Freezer (0°F) 3 months best quality
Room temp 2 hours max then discard
Discard Discard milk that smells sour, looks lumpy, or has been out more than 2 hours.
The answer
Unopened refrigerated milk is typically good until, and a few days past, its printed date.
How long it keeps
Fridge (40°F) Printed date + a few days safe window
Freezer (0°F) 3 months best quality
Room temp 2 hours max then discard
Discard Discard if sour-smelling or curdled regardless of date.
By state & packaging
State Fridge Freezer
Opened ~1 week 3 months
Unopened Printed date + a few days 3 months
Signs it has gone bad
✕ Sour smell
✕ Lumpy or curdled texture
✕ Yellowish tint or separation
FAQ
Is milk still good after the sell-by date?
Often yes. Sell-by is a stock-rotation date, not a safety date. Properly refrigerated milk is typically fine for a few days past it. If it smells sour or looks curdled, discard it.
Can you freeze milk?
Yes, for about 3 months. The texture may separate after thawing — shake well. Thaw it in the refrigerator, not on the counter.