Organic Milk's Long Expiration Date

[Anonymous]

I found this article in a recent Martha Stewart Living Magazine and thought some of you may be interested. My DH and the grandparents seem to believe that the expiration date on Organic milk (which can be 2 months out sometimes) is valid even after the milk is opened. My own parents wanted to give my DS milk that had been in the fridge (opened) for 3 weeks because the expiration date still had a month left on it. Luckily, common sense made me stop them. The important part of this article is:

"...it is important to note that the sell-by date on ultrapasteurized products is only relevant before you open the carton. After that, the milk stays fresh for a week or two."

I think this should be noted on the carton!!!


Organic Milk's Sell-By Date

Q: Why does organic milk often have an extended expiration date?

A: All Grade A milk sold in stores is pasteurized, or heated to kill most of the microorganisms that can make it spoil quickly. But many organic milk companies employ a process known as ultrapasteurization (indicated on package) in which milk is heated at a higher temperature until it is practically free of organisms that can grow at refrigeration temperatures; this allows it to last one to two months instead of the ten to twelve days you may be accustomed to. However, it is important to note that the sell-by date on ultrapasteurized products is only relevant before you open the carton. After that, the milk stays fresh for a week or two.

Ultrapasteurization isn't only used for organic milk, but it is particularly advantageous for this product. An extended expiration date enables organic dairies to ship their products farther and allows stores to receive shipments less often. "Organic milk isn't produced in all parts of the country, so ultrapasteurization is a way for companies to reach more customers," says Sharon Gerdes, technical consultant for Dairy Management, which represents U.S. dairy farmers. Milk that has been ultrapasteurized has a subtly different taste and texture (some people notice a slight "cooked" flavor) than regular varieties. It is also pricier, because ultrapasteurization requires dairies to invest in more sophisticated equipment. If supporting local dairies is a priority, keep in mind that while pasteurized milk is often bottled locally, ultrapasteurized products may have traveled a significant distance to reach your store.

[Anonymous]

Thank you for posting. I have had a hard time convincing my husband that after 2 weeks open in the fridge, he should not drink his milk.

[Anonymous]

Thanks to the OP-I've been slowly switching to organic and this type of information is very helpful