Can you freeze milk? Yes, for up to 3 months

Yes, you can freeze milk. It keeps its best quality for about 3 months in the freezer, according to the USDA FoodKeeper. Thawed milk is safe to drink, but the fat can separate and the texture may be slightly grainy, so shake it well. Many people find it best for cooking, baking, smoothies and overnight oats rather than drinking on its own.

How long does milk last?

• In the fridge: until the date on the carton. Keep it at 40°F (4°C) or colder, on a shelf rather than in the door.
• Ultra-pasteurised milk, once opened: 7 to 10 days.
• In the freezer: about 3 months for best quality.
• Thawed: keep it in the fridge and use it within a few days.

Lactose-free milk is the exception: the USDA FoodKeeper does not recommend freezing it.

How do you freeze milk?

• Pour off a little first: milk expands as it freezes and can split a full carton or bottle.
• Freeze it in its plastic jug or in freezer-safe containers, not in glass bottles.
• For cooking and smoothies, freeze it in ice cube trays or small portions.
• Label it with the date.

Whole milk separates more than skim, because of its fat, but both freeze.

How do you thaw frozen milk?

In the fridge, which takes about a day for a large jug. For faster thawing, put the sealed container in cold water and change the water every 30 minutes. Never thaw milk on the counter: the outside warms up while the middle is still frozen. Shake or whisk it well once thawed. More in how to thaw meal prep safely.

How can you tell if milk has gone off?

A sour smell, a lumpy or curdled texture, or a yellowish colour mean throw it away. Separation after freezing is normal and shakes back in; sourness is not. When in doubt, throw it out.

What can you make with thawed milk?

• High-protein overnight oats and berry chia pudding.
• Baked oatmeal and blender protein pancakes.
• Sauces, soups and smoothies.

Which other dairy foods freeze?

Yogurt and hard cheese freeze for cooking; see can you freeze yogurt and can you freeze cheese. Cream cheese and sour cream turn crumbly or watery; see foods that do not freeze well. For a full list, see which meal prep foods freeze well.

Sources

• USDA FoodKeeper (storage times by food)
• USDA: freezing and food safety
• USDA: the big thaw, safe defrosting methods