1. Expiration Date: First and foremost, check the expiration date on your milk carton. If the milk has only recently passed its “use-by” date, it’s likely still safe to drink.
2. Sour Smell: One of the unmistakable characteristics of spoiled milk is its sour smell. If you notice a pungent aroma when you open your milk carton, it’s best to discard it.
3. Clumping or Curdling: Milk that has gone bad will typically clump or curdle when heated. If you notice any lumps or chunks in your milk, it’s no longer safe to consume.
4. Off-Color: Another telltale sign of spoiled milk is its off-color. Normal milk is typically a bright white color. If your milk appears yellowish or off-white, it’s likely turned bad.
5. Unopened Container: If your milk carton is unopened and has been properly stored in the fridge, it may still be safe to drink even if it’s past the expiration date.
In summary, consuming milk past its expiration date can be risky as it has likely exceeded its shelf life. Always check the expiration date, smell the milk for any pungent aroma, check for clumping or curdling, look for an off-color, and follow proper storage guidelines to ensure the milk stays safe to drink.
