How long does acidophilus milk last in the fridge?

How long does acidophilus milk last in the fridge?

We found no official figure for opened acidophilus milk, and brands differ, so the date printed on the carton is your best guide. Unopened, use it by that date. Once opened, most people treat it like other refrigerated milk and finish it within about a week, but that is a general habit, not a rule from the maker. If the label says a number of days after opening, follow the label.

What is acidophilus milk?

It is milk with the bacterium Lactobacillus acidophilus. There are two kinds. Sweet acidophilus milk has the bacteria added without fermenting, so it tastes like regular milk. Fermented acidophilus milk has a yogurt-like tang. Knowing which one you bought matters when you judge freshness.

How should you store it?

• Keep it in the fridge below 40 degrees F (4 degrees C), on a shelf, not in the door where the temperature swings.
• Keep the container tightly closed. Extra air can shorten shelf life.
• Do not leave it out for long after pouring. Put it back right away.
• Freezing is possible and the bacteria survive, but the texture can change after thawing.

How can you tell acidophilus milk has gone bad?

• Smell: sharply sour or rotten. Compare with a fresh carton, because fermented types smell a little sour even when fresh.
• Look: it should be creamy white and pour smoothly. Clumps, like spoiled yogurt, mean discard it.
• Taste: sweet acidophilus should taste like normal milk. Any off flavor is a warning. Fermented milk keeps getting more sour in the fridge, so a taste far sharper than when fresh is a sign to stop.

When in doubt, throw it out. Do not drink milk that smells or looks wrong just because the date has not passed.

Does it last longer than regular milk?

Not necessarily. The live cultures keep making acid at fridge temperature, so fermented acidophilus milk can turn too sour as time goes on. Do not assume the bacteria preserve it indefinitely.

Who should be careful?

Pregnant people, older adults, young children and people with weakened immune systems should be strict about dates and should not use milk that is past its date. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure whether a live-culture product suits you. This is general guidance, not medical advice.