can you drink milk after the expiration date

Milk can generally be consumed safely after its expiration date, but this depends on how it has been stored and whether it shows signs of spoilage. Unopened pasteurized milk typically remains good for 5 to 7 days past the printed date if kept refrigerated properly. Once opened, milk usually stays fresh for about 2 to 3 days beyond the expiration date. The key indicators for whether milk is still safe to drink are its smell, texture, and appearance—if it smells sour, looks lumpy, or has changed texture, it should be discarded. Expiration or "use-by" dates mainly indicate quality rather than safety, so sensory checks are the best guide for consumption after the date. Raw or unpasteurized milk spoils faster and has higher health risks. Proper refrigeration below 4°C (39°F) is important to extend milk's freshness. Shelf- stable UHT milk lasts much longer unopened, but once opened, it should also be consumed within about a week. In summary, drinking milk shortly after its expiration date is usually safe if the milk looks, smells, and tastes normal, but it's best not to rely solely on the date and to check for spoilage signs first.