How to check freshness of milk at home
Keeping milk fresh during the hot weather is no less than a challenge, but here are some simple tips to check the spoilage of milk due to extreme hot weather.
Sour smell
The first thing to check before consuming packaged milk in summers is to check the smell, if there is a sour, unpleasant odor, then the milk is no longer fresh.
Change in appearance
Changes in the appearance of milk can also indicate spoilage. If milk appears lumpy, curdled or has noticeable chunks or clumps floating in it, then chances are that the milk is already unfit to consume.
Off taste
Another smart way of checking spoilage of milk is by tasting a small amount of the milk to check for any unusual or off flavors. Spoiled milk often has a tangy or sour taste that differs from fresh milk.
Separation
If milk appears separated into distinct layers with a watery layer at the bottom and a thicker layer on top, then it is likely spoiled. This separation indicates that the milk has begun to break down and is no longer safe to consume.
Easy ways to keep milk fresh in summers
If you too are tired of throwing away foods and staples like milk due to scorching hot weather? Then here are some common yet easy ways to ensure that milk is properly stored to keep it fresh for a long time.
Proper Refrigeration
As soon as you bring milk home from the store, refrigerate it immediately. Keeping milk at a consistent cold temperature slows down the growth of bacteria, helping it stay fresh longer.
Store in the back of the refrigerator
The back of the refrigerator tends to be the coldest area, so store your milk there to keep it at the optimal temperature.
Check the expiration date
Always make sure to purchase milk with a later expiration date to give it more time before spoiling. This will help you refrain from discarding milk and other staples due to hot weather.
Avoid temperature fluctuations
Another effective way to minimize temperature fluctuations is by keeping the refrigerator door closed as much as possible and not placing milk near the refrigerator door where it is exposed to warmer air.
Use a thermometer
Consider using a refrigerator thermometer to ensure your fridge is maintaining the proper temperature like 1 degree Celsius to 4 degree Celsius for storing milk and other perishable items.
Keep it covered
Store milk in its original container with the lid tightly closed to prevent contamination and absorption of other odors from the fridge.
Consider smaller containers
If you don’t use milk frequently, consider purchasing smaller containers to minimize wastage and ensure consuming fresh milk.
Use milk quickly
During the summer months, try to use milk within a day or so to ensure that the milk is fresh. A simple way is to check the shelf life of milk and consume it within the given date to avoid spoilage.