Quick Answer
Unopened condensed milk can be stored at room temperature. Once opened, condensed milk should be refrigerated and used within 5-7 days. Refrigeration helps prevent bacterial growth and extends the shelf life of opened condensed milk.
What is Condensed Milk?
Condensed milk is cow’s milk that has been reduced to around 40-45% of its original volume by removing approximately 60% of the water. It is shelf-stable because of the high sugar content, which acts as a preservative.
The two main types of condensed milk are:
Sweetened Condensed Milk
This is made by adding sugar to condensed milk. The high sugar content (around 40-45%) prevents bacterial growth and allows it to be shelf-stable before opening. Common brands are Eagle Brand and Borden’s.
Evaporated Milk
This is condensed milk with no added sugar. It has a darker color and richer flavor compared to sweetened condensed milk. Common brands are Carnation and Pet.
Shelf Life of Condensed Milk
Unopened Condensed Milk
An unopened can of condensed milk will typically last 2-3 years past the printed expiration date, as long as the can remains intact and is stored in a cool, dry place. The high sugar content creates an environment unsuitable for bacterial growth.
Signs that an unopened can of condensed milk may be spoiled include:
– Bulging or dents in the can
– Rust or damage along the seals or seams
– Creaming or separation of milk and liquid
As long as the can appears normal, the condensed milk inside should be safe to consume. However, it is best to use unopened cans of condensed milk within 3-4 years for optimal freshness and flavor. The taste may slowly degrade over time but the milk will remain safe to eat.
Opened Condensed Milk
Once opened, condensed milk needs to be handled like regular milk because the protective seal has been broken. It will spoil faster due to exposure to bacteria in the air.
– Refrigerate after opening and use within 5-7 days.
– Store in an airtight container.
– Do not return unused portions back into the original can.
– Watch for signs of spoilage like curdling, off-smells, or mold.
Condensed milk can be frozen for up to 2-3 months to extend its shelf life after opening. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using again.
Does Condensed Milk Require Refrigeration?
Unopened
Unopened cans of condensed milk have a long shelf life and do not need to be refrigerated. The high sugar content creates an environment where bacteria cannot grow easily, allowing it to be shelf-stable.
An unopened can of condensed milk can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry spot for 2-3 years past the ‘best by’ date. Storage temperatures between 50-70°F are ideal. It does not require refrigeration until after the can has been opened.
Opened
Once opened, condensed milk must be stored in the refrigerator. Refrigeration is necessary to prevent bacterial contamination and spoilage after exposure to air.
To maximize the shelf life of opened condensed milk:
– Pour into an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. Never return unused portions back into the original can.
– Refrigerate for up to 5-7 days. Keep refrigerated at 40°F or below.
– Check frequently for signs of spoilage like curdling, changes in color or odor. Discard if condensation, sliminess, or mold occur.
– For longer storage, condensed milk can be frozen for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
– Do not store at room temperature after opening. This provides an environment for bacteria to grow.
How to Tell if Condensed Milk Has Gone Bad
Here are some signs that condensed milk has spoiled and should be discarded:
– Curdling or Separation – Fresh condensed milk is uniformly thick and creamy. If it appears curdled with thin whey separating out, it has spoiled.
– Mold Growth – This is a clear sign of spoilage. You may see fuzzy mold on the surface or below the lid. Discard immediately if mold is present.
– Sour Odor – Condensed milk normally has a subtly sweet, creamy smell. If it smells unpleasantly sour or bitter, it has likely spoiled.
– Dents, Bulging or Rust – With unopened cans, deep dents, bulging lids, or rust indicate the seal has been compromised and bacteria able to enter.
– Change in Color – Fresh condensed milk should be a pale yellow. If it has turned darker or brown, that indicates oxidation and spoilage.
– Sliminess – The texture becomes slippery or slimy when condensed milk goes bad. Healthy condensed milk has a smooth, creamy texture.
– Expiration Date – If the ‘best by’ date has long passed, condensed milk should be inspected closely before consuming and thrown out at any signs of spoilage.
If condensed milk exhibits any of the above signs, it should be discarded. Using spoiled condensed milk can potentially cause foodborne illness. When in doubt, throw it out.
How to Store Condensed Milk
Here are some guidelines for proper storage of condensed milk:
Unopened
– Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place like a pantry or cupboard. Avoid direct sunlight which can overheat cans.
– Ideal storage temperature is between 50-70°F. Higher temperatures can shorten shelf life.
– Keep cans away from heat sources like stoves, ovens, and dishwashers.
– Ensure the can is intact with no dents, rust, or bulging lids.
– Write the purchase or ‘best by’ date on the top of the can for reference.
– Rotate stock and use older cans first. Use unopened condensed milk within 3-4 years for best quality.
Opened
– Transfer opened condensed milk into an airtight container or seal tightly with plastic wrap to prevent air exposure.
– Refrigerate immediately at 40°F or below. Use within 5-7 days.
– Do not return unused portions back into the original can. This introduces bacteria and shortens shelf life.
– Keep refrigerated condensed milk away from cross-contaminants like raw meat juices.
– For longer freezer storage, pour condensed milk into freezer-safe containers leaving 1⁄2 inch headspace. Freeze up to 2-3 months.
Benefits of Refrigerating Condensed Milk
Refrigerating opened condensed milk provides several key benefits:
– Slows Bacterial Growth – Cooler fridge temperatures inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, preventing foodborne illness.
– Prevents Spoilage – Refrigeration minimizes condensation build-up inside the can and keeps milk from curdling or developing mold.
– Extends Shelf Life – Proper refrigeration after opening extends the shelf life of condensed milk from days to up to a week.
– Maintains Texture – Keeps condensed milk thick and creamy instead of thin or watery through temperature control.
– Retains Flavor – Refrigeration preserves the sweet taste of condensed milk and prevents sour or bitter flavors.
– Allows Long-Term Storage – Opened condensed milk can be frozen for 2-3 months for longer storage, which is only possible if kept refrigerated initially.
Refrigerating opened condensed milk is vital for food safety and quality. It retains the texture and flavor of fresh condensed milk and allows it to be kept for use in recipes or desserts through the week. Unrefrigerated condensed milk will quickly deteriorate.
Can You Freeze Condensed Milk?
Yes, condensed milk can be frozen both unopened and opened. Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life well past the ‘best by’ date.
Unopened Condensed Milk
Unopened cans of condensed milk are already shelf-stable at room temperature. However, freezing provides even longer freshness for 2-3 years past the printed expiration date.
To freeze unopened cans:
– Ensure cans have no dents, rust, or bulging lids indicating compromise of the seal.
– Clean the tops of cans to prevent freezer burn.
– Wrap each can tightly in plastic wrap, freezer paper, or place in a ziplock freezer bag. This prevents ice crystals forming on the can.
– Freeze condensed milk cans upright so they keep their shape. Laying cans down can cause leaks as contents expand.
– Label cans with date frozen for reference.
Thaw unopened canned condensed milk overnight in the refrigerator before use. Thawing at room temperature can cause condensation leading to rust.
Opened Condensed Milk
Once opened, condensed milk can be frozen in airtight containers or freezer bags for 2-3 months.
To freeze:
– Refrigerate opened can overnight before freezing. This prevents moisture condensation inside the container which can cause freezer burn.
– Transfer to freezersafe containers like plasticware or ziplock bags, leaving 1⁄2 inch headspace to allow for expansion. Squeeze out excess air.
– Seal tightly and label with date frozen.
– Freeze at 0°F or below for best quality.
Thaw frozen condensed milk overnight in the refrigerator. Thaw only what is needed as condensed milk should not be refrozen after thawing.
Freezing condenses milk allows longer storage and cuts down on potential waste. Thawed condensed milk retains its smooth, creamy texture and sweet flavor. It can be used in all the same ways as fresh condensed milk.
How Long Does Condensed Milk Last?
The shelf life of condensed milk varies based on whether it is opened or unopened.
Unopened Condensed Milk
– Pantry: 2-3 years past ‘best by’ date
– Refrigerator: 3-4 years past ‘best by’ date
– Freezer: 2-3 years past ‘best by’ date
Opened Condensed Milk
– Refrigerator: 5-7 days
– Freezer: 2-3 months
General guidelines for maximizing the shelf life are:
– Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place around 50-70°F. Avoid temperature extremes.
– Refrigerate and use opened condensed milk within one week.
– Freeze for longer storage. Thaw overnight in fridge before use.
– Discard any condensed milk that smells bad, appears curdled, shows mold or sliminess, or has passed expiration date by over 6 months.
The shelf life depends on storage conditions. Refrigerating opened condensed milk is the best way to maximize freshness and shelf life after the can has been opened.
How to Use Up Condensed Milk
To avoid wasting leftover condensed milk, here are some delicious ways to use it up:
– Mix into coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or milkshakes for flavor
– Use in desserts like cakes, cookies, brownies, fudge, and candy
– Create homemade ice cream, popsicles, or frozen yogurt
– Use as a topping on waffles, pancakes, crepes, or oatmeal
– Make truffles by coating condensed milk balls in cocoa powder or shredded coconut
– Mix with peanut butter and spread on toasted bread or waffles
– Add to fruit salad dressing or smoothies for sweetness
– Use in savory dishes like chicken or shrimp curry recipes
– Mix with cocoa powder and dip fresh fruit for an easy fondue dessert
– Freeze dollops on a baking sheet then enjoy as condensed milk ice pops
– Stir into cold milk for an instant milkshake treat
With a bit of creativity, condensed milk can be transformed into delicious desserts, drinks, and snacks to avoid waste and save money. It freezes very well so any leftovers can be stored for future use.
FAQs
Can you get sick from spoiled condensed milk?
Yes, consuming spoiled condensed milk could potentially make you sick. Like regular milk, condensed milk can be contaminated with bacteria which multiply rapidly at room temperature after opening. Common symptoms of foodborne illness include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. To avoid getting sick, discard any condensed milk past expiration or showing signs of spoilage.
What is the white stuff on top of old condensed milk?
The white film that sometimes forms on the surface of older condensed milk is caused by air reaching the condensed milk. This oxidizes the condensed milk, forming a layer of fat. It is mostly harmless but can cause an off flavor. For best quality, condensed milk should be used by its expiration date and refrigerated promptly after opening.
Can you make evaporated milk by simmering regular milk?
No, you cannot make true evaporated milk by simmering regular milk. Evaporated milk is not just regular milk with water removed, it undergoes a specific vacuum evaporation process to achieve the right protein concentration and caramelized flavor. Simmering milk on the stovetop will make sweetened condensed milk if you add sugar. But it will not have the same flavor, color, or properties of commercially made evaporated milk.
Is it okay to substitute sweetened condensed milk for evaporated milk?
Sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk are not directly interchangeable. Evaporated milk contains no added sugar and has a darker, creamier, milkier flavor. Sweetened condensed milk is much thicker and syrupy with a very sweet flavor due to the high sugar content. In recipes, evaporated milk adds richness and depth of flavor. Sweetened condensed milk makes the dish very sweet. For best results following recipes, use the specific type of condensed milk called for.
What’s the difference between condensed milk and dry milk powder?
Condensed milk is concentrated fresh milk with about 60% of the water removed. Dry milk powder starts with fresh milk which is heated to evaporate all the water, leaving only powdered milk solids behind. Condensed milk is a liquid with a creamy texture and sweet flavor. Dry milk powder completely dissolves in water. Condensed milk contains sugar, unlike most dry milk powders. They cannot be used interchangeably in recipes.
