Have you ever wondered how those waxy paper cartons of milk can stay good for so long even out of the refrigerator? It’s because it’s UHT milk, a special type of milk that makes it shelf-stable outside of the fridge for months.
The best way to store UHT milk is in a cool, dark place in normal humidity with temperatures not exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Once it’s opened, store UHT milk in the refrigerator for 7-10 days (or sooner depending on the instructions on the package).
We’ll explain more about what UHT milk is and the best way to store it next!
What is UHT milk?
UHT stands for “ultra-high temperature” (UHT), which is exposed to higher heat (280°F) than regular pasteurization. The unique thing about UHT milk is that you can store it at room temperature for long periods thanks to the high heat it’s exposed to, which helps kill bacteria, stabilize it, and make it resistant to spoiling.
There are several types of UHT milk, such as cow’s milk, almond milk, rice milk, and many others. It’s packaged in aseptic packaging that doesn’t allow any bacteria to enter. (It’s the same kind of packaging that juice boxes come in – the thick, waxy cardboard-type material!)
Once you open a container of UHT milk, you’ll need to refrigerate it and use it within 7-10 days, or whatever is printed on the container.
What’s the best way to store UHT milk?
The great thing about UHT milk is that you can store it almost anywhere, and for a long time! UHT milk is generally good to stay at room temperature for many months when it’s sealed, but always refer to the use-by or expiration date printed on the package.
The ideal temperature range for UHT milk is 50-90 degrees Fahrenheit. When stored at this temperature range, UHT milk is typically good even beyond the expiration date.
Aim to store UHT milk at 50% humidity as well (considered “normal” humidity), which can help prolong its shelf life.
Factors that influence UHT milk storage
Temperature & humidity
UHT milk is pretty resistant to spoiling, but storing it in excessively hot conditions (100+ degrees Fahrenheit) for prolonged periods can make it less shelf-stable.
High humidity levels can also impact its storage, so try to keep it in a dry place.
You can freeze UHT milk if you want to, but you’ll need to pour some of it out of the container to make room for expansion when it freezes. Keep in mind that thawed milk that was previously frozen can take on a different texture, and there might be a separation of solids from the liquid. This doesn’t impact its safety or taste, but it can make the texture off-putting.
Container
UHT milk is meant to be kept in its original container until you open it. If you transfer UHT milk to another container, you’ll need to use it within 7-10 days. UHT milk won’t last as long as it says on the expiration once opened – that expiration date refers to SEALED milk.
Signs that UHT milk has spoiled
UHT milk has a much longer shelf life than refrigerated milk, but it can still go bad eventually. The signs that UHT milk has spoiled are similar to regular milk, so watch out for some of the following signs!
Taste: If you open UHT milk and give it a taste, it should taste pleasant. If it tastes sour or just plain “off”, it might be a sign that it’s gone bad.
Appearance: If the UHT milk has clumps, is grainy, or is discolored (e.g. milk that is normally white has turned yellow), then you should toss it.
Smell: UHT milk shouldn’t have a strong scent in the first place, so any off-putting smells coming from UHT milk can be an indicator that it’s gone bad.
FAQs:
UHT milk doesn’t require refrigeration until it’s opened. Once opened, refrigerate UHT milk and use it within 7-10 days. Otherwise, you can store sealed UHT milk at room temperature, preferably between 50-90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Unopened UHT milk usually lasts several months at room temperature, but you should always refer to the expiration date printed on the package. Once opened, UHT milk should generally be used within 7-10 days (and refrigerated).
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