How to extend the shelf life of milk: tips for housewives

Milk is a nutritious and widely consumed drink. SSPDaily will figure out why milk can go sour prematurely, especially in the refrigerator, and give tips on how to extend its shelf life.

Factors contributing to milk souring

Milk souring is primarily caused by lactic acid bacteria present in the air, which multiply faster in warm conditions. Pasteurization and ultra-pasteurization are methods used by producers to eliminate these bacteria, making milk last longer.

However, as soon as the milk is opened, it is exposed to air and the bacteria naturally re-enter, causing rapid souring, especially if stored improperly.

Causes of rapid souring of milk, even in the refrigerator

If open milk goes sour within 1-2 days, this may be due to several factors:

1. Improper storage in the store: Long storage times or improper temperature conditions in the refrigerator can lead to premature souring of milk.

2. Improper storage in the refrigerator: Milk should be stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator at around 4-5°C. If it is placed on the upper shelves or in the door, it may be exposed to higher temperatures, which accelerates the process of souring.

3. Poorly washed dishes: When you buy milk directly from farmers or markets, it may be poured into unsterilized containers, which can introduce bacteria that accelerate the souring process.

4. Storage in transparent containers: Milk tends to spoil faster when exposed to light. Using opaque storage containers can help prevent this.

Preventing milk from turning sour

To extend the shelf life of your milk and prevent it from going off prematurely, use the following tips:

1. Boil the milk: Boiling milk helps kill potential lactic acid bacteria. After boiling, cool the drink to room temperature before pouring it into an opaque container with a lid and refrigerating it. This can extend the shelf life of the milk to about 5-7 days.

2. Natural preservatives: Adding certain natural preservatives can further extend the shelf life of milk. Consider adding a small piece of sugar before boiling, a pinch of salt or baking soda during boiling. Additionally, a sprig of mint or a horseradish leaf placed in the milk container while it is stored in the refrigerator will help keep it fresh longer.

What to do with sour milk

If your milk has turned sour, don't rush to throw it away. It can serve as a great base for a variety of baked goods, giving bread, pancakes or cakes a rich flavor. There are many ways to turn sour milk into a delicious treat for the whole family.