Evaporated milk can be described as a dairy product that is produced through the process of evaporation and the removal of approximately 60% of the water. In contrast to condensed milk, it doesn’t have sugar or any other sweetener. However, it is more stable on the shelf than ordinary milk, so it can be used for a long time.
The main questions, however, you would like to ask are: how long does evaporated milk last and does the evaporated milk go bad? Let’s discover.
The dehydrated milk is later sterilized at high temperatures. The result is a dark, healthy product that has an aroma of caramel and a longer shelf time than milk.
You can add water before you get regular milk, however, it’s typically an ingredient you can utilize to cook delicious meals, without changing its form.
The shelf life of evaporated milk is largely dependent on its best before date as well as the method of storage. If you store an opened product improperly, it could turn bad and then become unfit to consume. However, when it is stored in an unopened container, it is unlikely to spoil even if the container is damaged.
How Long Does Evaporated Milk Last?
The milk that evaporates is sterilized, unsweetened condensed milk that does not contain sugar as an additive to preserve it. Therefore, it is important to be aware and be sure to check how long it lasts.
Unopened Evaporated Milk
The canned item will remain in top condition for at most 1.5 or 2 years following the date that is the best before when properly stored. If the storage conditions aren’t ideal If you store your container in your kitchen area, then you are able to make use of this product for the duration of a year.
Be aware that prolonged storage can alter the flavor, color, and color of evaporated milk and texture, however, it’s safe to drink in the majority of cases. However, refrigerating the product in sealed packaging won’t extend the shelf-life of the product.
Opened Evaporated Milk
The milk that evaporates will last 2 to 3 days after you open the can however, you must keep it refrigerated. Certain producers say they are safe to use for 5 days following the opening of the package.
Avoid storing evaporated milk in an open container. Make sure to pour it into a container that is sealed and keep it in the fridge.
Low-Fat, Skim Evaporated Milk
The evaporated milk can be consumed up to nine months after the expiry date if it is stored in a dark and cool pantry. A bottle that is opened will last no more than 2-4 days if it is kept in the refrigerator.
7 Tips To Tell If Evaporated Milk Has Gone Bad
Remember that you shouldn’t drink it for longer than 3 or five days, even if it seems fine as it’s probably not. However, it’s very rare. Most of the time you’ll see obvious evidence of spoilage. Let’s take a look.
Milk Skin
There are times when you will see milk skins appearing on the surface of the product that has been opened. This is not an indication of spoilage, but rather a normal process of fat segregation that happens when evaporated milk is stored in a container that has not been properly sealed or not airtight.
This will occur when you expose milk to air. It is possible to resolve this problem by warming the milk, stirring it up until it reaches that desired level of consistency.
Smell
It won’t smell awful. It’s likely to smell different from a fresh one. If you notice a foul smell, there is no need to think about it. It’s time to dispose of the smell away.
Color
The milk that is fresh evaporated will be white, therefore any color changes are a sign that something is not right. If your product begins to turn brown or green or black, you need to eliminate it.
Texture
It has a smooth texture. The appearance of curd-like lumps signifies that you have spoilt evaporated milk.
Taste
There’s no reason for you to try a taste of evaporated milk in order to conclusively say that it has gone bad. But, a sour flavor indicates that it’s not good food in the future.
Mold
If you see mold growing on the milk that has evaporated You can be certain that all the content has gone bad. This isn’t a solution that can be solved by simply removing the change. Get rid of it immediately to avoid health issues.
Can
If you discover that an unopened container containing evaporated milk has been damaged or dented, rusted, or is leaking, the most effective solution is to dispose of it. This type of container is at risk of extremely dangerous botulism poisoning.
How To Store Evaporated Milk
The best practice is not to keep opened evaporated milk in the refrigerator for longer than two hours. In the event that you do, you’ll allow the growth of bacteria in the fridge at ambient temperature which could result in potential harm.
Kitchen
It’s not difficult to keep an unopened container filled with evaporated milk on the countertop or in the cabinet of your kitchen. This way, you will be able to protect your item for between 6 and 12 months.
Pantry
Storing milk cans that have evaporated in a cool and dark area is an ideal way to extend the shelf life. It can be kept in a closed container for two years if it is not opened.
On the contrary, you can store an unopened bottle of skim evaporated skim milk, low-fat, and low-fat within your refrigerator for approximately nine months.
Fridge
After opening the can, it is time to put the milk that evaporated in the refrigerator. Don’t keep it in an open container, instead pour the leftovers into containers or jars that are airtight containers to keep them from inhaling the scents of other food items.
Beware of containers that aren’t airtight, as oxygen can alter the contents and lead to the formation of a film on the surface.
Freezer
It is not the best option because it weakens the structure of the product. It also results in loss of color and flavor and can lead the ingredient to separate. But, you can still make it happen if you need to and extend the shelf life of your product for up to 3 months.
Conversion
It is possible to convert the evaporated milk to regular by adding the same quantity of water. If you require one cup of milk, it’s sufficient that you mix 0.5 cups of the evaporated milk and 0.5 cups of water. Stir them thoroughly and take the milk exactly as you would normally.
A different option would be to create an alternative to buttermilk. You’ll require a one-half cup of evaporated milk as well as one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to make a cup of buttermilk.
The Risk Of Consuming An Expired Evaporated Milk
When you check the label of the product it will be apparent that your evaporated milk comes with an expiry date on it. This is the date that the product will be of high quality, however, you can consume it up to the date.
It is generally accepted that you will most likely utilize this milk for about two months, but keep in mind that the shelf life is generally shorter.
If you own a bottle of evaporated milk that’s been sitting for too long the best choice is to examine the ingredients before taking it. If you don’t, you could be suffering from digestive tract disorders or food poisoning. These are common symptoms which include:
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
Rusted cans pose a risk because they can directly trigger botulism, a serious illness caused by a toxin that is accompanied by symptoms such as:
- Trouble breathing
- Muscle paralysis
- Death
Can You Freeze Evaporated Milk?
As you’d expect evaporated milk producers do not suggest freezing their milk because low temperatures alter their consistency. In the end, your creamy milk may be separated and the quality of your milk will decline.
But, freezing is still possible as well, and you can use the frozen food item to cook and bake as needed. In addition, you can increase your texture and texture simply by stirring it.
One of the most effective ways to store evaporated milk in the freezer is to pour it into an ice cube tray. So, you’ll have the ability to make use of a smaller amount when you need to. If you’d like to add this item to your broth or soup it is not necessary to let it thaw at all. It’s enough to select a couple of cubes and add the soup or broth.
Another option is to pour the remainders onto baking sheets, then put them in the freezer, and smash the ‘plate’ into powder.
It is enough to add some water to it once it’s thawed and then get the milk you can use as you require.
Do not freeze a can that hasn’t been opened. It’s not logical since canned food products don’t get rotten when the packaging is intact. There’s also the possibility of destroying the can when temperatures are low. It isn’t a viable option as you don’t need the entire amount at one time.
How To Store Evaporated Milk?
When it comes to the storage of evaporated milk, it’s simple and easy. Canned evaporated milk can be stored in a shelf-stable condition and is able to be kept at the temperature of the room. It should be stored in a cool, dry area far from light sources and heat.
The kitchen pantry or cabinet is the perfect place to store things. It’s not required to store an unopened container in the refrigerator. The manufacturing process and the packaging can ensure that it will last longer than the refrigerator.
After opening, store the product in a refrigerator for future use. Cover the surface that has been opened with plastic wrap or place the remainder of the product into a tightly sealed container or Jar.
FAQs
Are evaporated milk and condensed milk the same thing?
No. If you’re often confused about these two products, you’re not alone. Many of us have the same problem.
Many people believe that they are the same products. They aren’t, however. Condensed and evaporated milk are dehydrated concentrated milk.
The main difference is the sugar amount. Evaporated milk is often called unsweetened condensed milk. It’s simply dehydrated milk that has the addition of no added sugar.
Condensed Milk is short for sweetened condensed milk which is dehydrated milk that has been added with a significant quantity of sugar.
While both appear like they are similar, they possess different features and functions, and this is especially true when you add sugar. Be sure to follow the recipe carefully before you purchase the correct product from the store.
Do you have to use evaporated milk?
An unopened bottle of evaporated milk can be considered to have a long shelf time. If the container isn’t damaged and you don’t notice any signs of spoilage It is usually suitable for consumption.
There could be a change in flavor or taste due to the fact that the quality has been degraded over the course of time.
What else can you make use of the milk that you have evaporated for?
Add it to your tea or coffee, or use it in baking and cooking. There are many recipes that require evaporated milk. It is also possible to make use of it to replace whole milk. To do this, dilute the milk by adding water at the ratio of 1:1.
How long can you keep milk evaporated unrefrigerated after the opening?
In accordance with the guidelines for food storage according to the USDA Once opened evaporated milk must not be kept in the refrigerator for more than 2 hours.
Bacteria can multiply faster than what you’d imagine at room temperature and could make the food inedible to eat. While many people have consumed food or milk stored outside and didn’t become sick, you will never know what you’re going to get. It is always better to be safer rather than sorry.
Wrapping up
Does evaporated milk go bad?
Evaporated milk is a tasty and nutritious dairy product that will last longer than regular dairy. After opening the can, it’s important to consume the contents within five days in order to stop it from deteriorating and causing pain or illness. Be cautious, keep the nutritious food correctly and enjoy it for longer.
Beware of the risk of food poisoning by ensuring cleanliness and storage that is safe. If you notice any indications of spoilage, be sure to stay in the safe zone and dispose of the remainder.
