Protecting Milk Quality

Refrigeration is the single most important factor in maintaining the quality of milk. By law, Grade A milk must be maintained at a temperature below 40F. It is critical that these temperatures be maintained through warehousing, distribution, delivery and storage. Remember temperature is the most important factor. Check the expiration dates on milk before you purchase. Harmful bacteria can grow rapidly in milk above 40F. Refrigerate milk promptly after purchase and each use. 

Infants, pregnant mothers, the elderly and the immune compromised are most susceptible to spoiled milk.

Properly refrigerated, milk will last about 2 weeks. The colder milk is kept the longer it lasts.

For more information call the Department of Agriculture's Dairy Division at (860) 713-2508.