Powdered milk, also known as dried milk, is a dried dairy product made by evaporating milk to dryness. It is an excellent option for long-term storage as it has a shelf life of 6 months to 1 year when stored properly. Storing powdered milk correctly is important to preserve nutrients and prevent spoilage or clumping.
How to Store Powdered Milk
Here are some tips for proper storage of powdered milk:
- Keep powdered milk in an airtight container such as a plastic or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Mason jars work very well.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture. An ideal storage temperature is between 50-70°F.
- When opening a new container, transfer some of the powdered milk to a smaller jar for regular use. This prevents air exposure and humidity from entering the bulk of unused powder.
- Only scoop out powder with a clean, dry utensil to avoid introducing moisture.
- After using, press down on the powder, smoothing the surface, and close the lid tightly.
- Write the date of purchase on the container for reference. Use oldest containers first.
- Inspect periodically for moisture accumulation, clumping, color changes, or unpleasant odors.
- For long-term storage, consider vacuum sealing or freezing portions to extend shelf life.
Where to Store Powdered Milk
The ideal storage location depends on your home’s conditions. Here are some good options:
- Pantry: Works well if cool and dry with stable temperature. Keep away from stoves, hot water heaters, or other appliances.
- Cupboard: Choose an interior cupboard sheltered from kitchen humidity and heat. Not recommended for warm or humid climates.
- Basement: A nice cool spot if your basement stays under 70°F and is not prone to dampness or flooding.
- Root cellar: An excellent choice for stable cool temperatures around 50-60°F.
- Refrigerator: While cold temperatures preserve nutrients, opening the fridge frequently lets in moisture. Use only for short-term storage.
- Freezer: Freezing extends shelf life significantly. Thaw frozen milk in the refrigerator before use.
What Containers Should Be Used?
The container material impacts powdered milk’s shelf life. Here are suitable options:
- Glass jars: Airtight glass Mason jars are ideal – they are nonporous and block moisture, air, light, and odors.
- Plastic containers: Opaque, BPA-free plastic with an airtight lid works well. Avoid clear plastic that allows light in.
- Mylar bags: These foil bags create an oxygen-free environment. For long-term storage, place them in plastic buckets or food-grade plastic drums.
- Vacuum sealing: Using a vacuum sealer on glass jars or Mylar bags removes oxygen and prevents humidity buildup.
- Oxygen absorbers: These packets soak up oxygen from sealed containers, increasing shelf life. Use with Mylar bags or jars.
Avoid paper, cardboard, or clear glass which expose the powder to air and light.
How Long Does Powdered Milk Last?
Properly stored, powdered milk can last:
- 6 months past the printed expiration date if unopened.
- 3-4 months once opened.
- Up to 1 year in a cool, very dry pantry.
- 2-5 years in the freezer.
- 10-20 years when vacuum sealed with oxygen absorbers in Mylar bags and stored below 75°F.
Heat, humidity, and oxygen are powdered milk’s worst enemies. If you notice caking, discoloration, off odors, or rancid taste, it is time to discard the milk.
Signs of Spoilage
Look out for these signs that powdered milk has gone bad:
- Clumping/caking: Exposure to moisture causes milk powder to clump and harden.
- Color changes: Normal powder is white to light cream. Yellow, brown, or gray hues indicate spoilage.
- Odor: Rancid or sour smells mean bacteria growth.
- Taste: Bad or bitter taste signals the powder is no longer fresh.
- Mold: Any fuzzy spots or webbing is dangerous mold.
- Fat separation: Powder looks oily or greasy.
Storing Reconstituted Powdered Milk
Once water is added to make liquid milk, it should be stored like fresh milk. Keep refrigerated and use within:
- 5-7 days for nonfat powdered milk
- 3-4 days for whole milk powder
Don’t leave reconstituted milk at room temperature over 2 hours. Discard any unfinished milk after 48 hours.
Freezing Reconstituted Powdered Milk
Reconstituted powdered milk can also be frozen for later use:
- Chill in the refrigerator before freezing for faster cooling.
- Pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1⁄2 inch of headspace.
- Seal tightly and label with the date.
- Freeze up to 3 months at 0°F.
- Defrost in the refrigerator before using.
- Use within 1 week after thawing.
- Do not refreeze thawed milk.
Reasons to Buy Powdered Milk
Stocking up on powdered milk has many benefits:
- Long shelf life – lasts years when stored properly.
- Nonperishable – no refrigeration required until reconstituted.
- Economical – more affordable than fluid milk.
- Portability – lightweight and compact.
- Emergency supply – good to have on hand for disasters or power outages.
- Cooking uses – convenient for smoothies, baked goods, sauces, etc.
Nutritional Value
Powdered milk contains the same nutrients as fresh dairy milk. Fortified varieties have extra vitamins and minerals added. Here is the nutrition profile per cup (240ml) of reconstituted nonfat dry milk:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Water | 240ml |
| Calories | 100 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Calcium | 500mg (50% DV) |
| Vitamin D | 100 IU (25% DV) |
| Vitamin A | 500 IU (10% DV) |
| Vitamin C | 0.55mg |
Powdered whole milk contains significantly more fat and calories than nonfat or skim varieties. Select low fat or nonfat milk powder to limit calories while retaining protein, carbs, vitamins and minerals.
Uses for Powdered Milk
Powdered milk is handy for much more than drinking. Here are some uses:
- Add to coffee, tea, hot cereal, milkshakes
- Make yogurt, smoothies, protein shakes
- Enrich soups, sauces, gravies, puddings
- Bake in breads, muffins, waffles, pancakes
- Use in place of fresh milk in recipes
- Make homemade infant formula
- Whip into cream for dessert toppings
- Create homemade hot cocoa mix
Frequently Asked Questions
Is powdered milk healthy?
Yes, powdered milk has the same nutrient profile as fresh milk and is fortified with vitamins A and D. Choose nonfat or low-fat varieties to avoid extra calories and fat.
Does powdered milk need to be refrigerated?
No, powdered milk is shelf-stable and does not require refrigeration until reconstituted into liquid form. Once reconstituted, it should be refrigerated like fresh milk.
Can powdered milk be used in baking?
Yes, powdered milk can be substituted 1:1 for fresh milk in baking recipes. The proteins brown and caramelize similarly. Adjust liquids if using nonfat milk powder which is thicker once reconstituted.
How long can reconstituted powdered milk be stored in the fridge?
Properly stored, refrigerated reconstituted milk will last 5-7 days for nonfat varieties and 3-4 days for whole milk powder. Discard any unfinished portions after 48 hours.
Is powdered milk safe for babies?
Yes, infants 6 months or older can drink powdered milk. Make sure to reconstitute carefully with the right water-to-powder ratio. Do not give powdered milk to newborns under 6 months old.
Conclusion
With proper storage conditions and containers, powdered milk can keep for many months past its printed expiration date. Keeping it dry, cool, and sealed from air and moisture are the keys to maximizing shelf life. Be diligent checking for signs of spoilage before use. Properly stored powdered milk delivers the same healthy nutrition as fresh dairy milk in a convenient, economical, and readily available form for any situation.