How long does Milk (plain or flavored) last in the fridge?

Updated 2026-08-07 · Free · No sign-up

Milk (plain or flavored) keeps about Until the package use-by date in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below, counting from the day you bought it. Frozen, it keeps about 3 months.

Source: USDA FoodKeeper v128 · Category: Dairy & eggs

How long Milk (plain or flavored) keeps

SituationKeeps for
Unopened · fridgeUntil the package use-by date
Freezer3 months

Only situations with a published figure are listed. A blank isn't “forever” — it means no reliable number is published for it.

Storage

How to tell if Milk (plain or flavored) has gone bad

These are the general spoilage signs for dairy & eggs — never taste something to test it. When in doubt, throw it out.

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FAQ

How long does Milk (plain or flavored) last in the fridge?

About Until the package use-by date at 40°F (4°C) or below, according to USDA FoodKeeper v128. That window runs from the day you bought it — FoodKeeper publishes no separate after-opening figure for this one.

Does Milk (plain or flavored) need to be refrigerated?

Yes — keep Milk (plain or flavored) at 40°F (4°C) or below. Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below.

How can you tell if Milk (plain or flavored) is bad?

Look for: Sour or off smell; Mould or fuzzy spots; Curdled, slimy, lumpy, or separated texture; Yellowing or other discoloration. Never taste something to test it — when in doubt, throw it out.

Can you freeze Milk (plain or flavored)?

Yes — USDA FoodKeeper v128 gives about 3 months in the freezer at 0°F (−18°C). Frozen food stays safe indefinitely; that window is about quality, not safety.

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