How long can I store opened condensed milk cans in the fridge? Is it possible to freeze it for longer storage?

Alan Barre

Even though milk is perishable, storing it properly will preserve its quality and freshness. Use the guidelines below to get full benefits from the milk you buy.

First of all, in the store check the “best before”-date on the label of the milk product to ensure that you are buying the freshest milk available.

The sweetened condensed milk conditioned in a metal or plastic container if unopened can be stored at room temperature and the shelf life is about 6 month from the manufacturing date. The preservation of the milk is obtained through heat treatment (85-90 °C), condensation, increased sugar content and the air-tightness of the package. The benefits of this treatment include totally destroying osmophilic and thermophilic microorganisms and inactivating lipases and proteases, which decreases fat separation and inhibits oxidative changes.

Opened canned milk should be immediately transferred to a clean glass or plastic container, covered and stored in the refrigerator. It should be used within 3 weeks of opening. If you don’t consume the opened milk during these weeks, it is possible to freeze it (the earlier the better). The storage time of frozen milk at –18 °C amounts approximately 3 months. For reusing defrost milk in the refrigerator over night. If it contains a lot of fat, it is important when defrosted to give it a good shake to remix the fatty and watery parts.

For further information you should contact the manufacturer.