Does Condensed Milk Go Bad? (And How Long Does It Last)

Condensed milk is a dairy product with the consistency of golden syrup but with about half the sweetness. It also contains more lactose than standard milk. Condensed milk has many uses in cooking and baking, such as making confectionery custards like creme caramel or rice pudding. It can be used to make chocolate malt shakes, cheesecake fillings, or ice cream toppings. Condensed milk is also added to tea or coffee instead of sugar. Does condensed milk go bad?

Condensed milk has a long life span in comparison to many dairy products. If unopened, condensed milk has a very long shelf life and it can last years beyond the “best-by” date if properly stored. Once opened, it will need to be refrigerated and will then only last three or four days. If you notice mold or clumps, discard it.

Please keep reading to learn more about condensed milk and how to store it properly!

Contents

Does Condensed Milk Go Bad Over Time?
Does Condensed Milk Have Dairy?
How Can You Tell If Condensed Milk Has Gone Bad?
How to Properly Store Condensed Milk
- Does Condensed Milk Go in The Fridge?
Does Condensed Milk Go Bad at Room Temperature?
Does Condensed Milk Go Bad After Opening?
Can You Get Sick from Old Condensed Milk?
How Long Does Regular Condensed Milk Last After It Expires?
Alternatives to Condensed Milk
Related Questions
- Related Guides

Does Condensed Milk Go Bad Over Time?

Condensed milk has a lot of sugar to keep it from going bad. Because of this, it can last a really long time. Condensed milk typically lasts for years past the expiration date on the package if it is kept sealed and stored in a cool place like a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight. If you plan on using the condensed milk within a couple of months, there is no need to refrigerate the product until the day before use.

However, if you buy cans of condensed milk frequently and do not use it all before the expiration date, then it is best to move the product into the fridge. If you are buying condensed milk in a paper carton instead of a can form, it is essential to remember that you must keep this product refrigerated at all times and only buy what your household will consume within 3-4 days.

Does Condensed Milk Have Dairy?

Yes, sweetened condensed milk is not dairy-free. It’s made by simmering milk until the water is removed, which thickens it but does not eliminate the lactose. If you’re on a dairy-free diet, your best bet is to make your own sweetened condensed milk using the non-dairy milk of your choice.

How Can You Tell If Condensed Milk Has Gone Bad?

Condensed milk has a shelf life of two to four years and should smell and taste like sweetened, slightly caramelized milk. The color will be light brown. Condensed milk is boiled for three hours, affecting its color — the longer it boils, the darker it becomes.

If you’re curious if your condensed milk has gone bad, there are a few simple tests you can try.

One way to tell if your condensed milk has spoiled is to check for mold. If there is mold on the milk’s surface or if you notice black or green spots that don’t smell sour, it has spoiled.
Another way to tell is by checking for clumps. Condensed milk will typically stay smooth until it goes bad. If you notice lumps, lumps of oil, or other impurities, your condensed milk likely has spoiled.
Finally, you can check to see if your condensed milk is chunky. Condensed milk will typically stay smooth until it goes bad. If you notice that your condensed milk has chunks or balls of oil, then it’s likely spoiled.

How to Properly Store Condensed Milk

Condensed milk should be stored in a tightly sealed container and away from direct heat and sunlight. If you’ve purchased condensed milk but don’t plan to use it right away, follow these storage guidelines:

Place your can of condensed milk in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. If you won’t be using it for more than a month, store condensed milk in the freezer, where it will last for up to two years.
If you notice any changes in appearance (the milk has curdled and turned yellow) or smell (it’s sour), throw away condensed milk that has been opened. Condensed milk will last at least two years, but this varies from brand to brand. Check the expiration date to make sure.
Unopened cans of condensed milk should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources. Try keeping your can on a high shelf where it won’t be knocked over and won’t be exposed to heat from outside.
Condensed milk can be difficult to store if it’s not kept in a proper container and away from direct sunlight or heat sources (such as the stove). Make sure that you purchase an airtight container to store your condensed milk in. Condensation may form on the outside of the container and may drip into your condensed milk if you don’t seal it properly.

Does Condensed Milk Go in The Fridge?

Yes, if opened, condensed milk will need to be stored in the fridge to keep it from going sour. It will last for three to four days if stored in an airtight container. If unopened, the milk doesn’t need to be in the fridge.

Does Condensed Milk Go Bad at Room Temperature?

If condensed milk has been opened, it will go bad at room temperature, just like traditional milk. If unopened, it will be fine at room temperature.

Does Condensed Milk Go Bad After Opening?

If opened, condensed milk will go bad if not stored in the fridge. It will sour within a few hours, just like regular varieties of milk.

Can You Get Sick from Old Condensed Milk?

Yes, Condensed milk has a long shelf life if stored properly, but if it develops an off odor or appearance, you should throw it out immediately. If someone eats outdated condensed milk and experiences nausea or diarrhea, you should see a doctor in case of food poisoning.

How Long Does Regular Condensed Milk Last After It Expires?

Condensed milk that has been stored properly will last for one to two years. If you notice a change in color, smell, or flavor, then do not consume. It should be at room temperature before checking the appearance, color, and smell.

If it has been opened, check it for lumps and sour smell before consuming. Opened it will last three to four days

Alternatives to Condensed Milk

If condensed milk isn’t for you, check out some of the alternatives available:

Clover Sonoma, Cream Whipping Heavy Organic

Heavy cream is already a similar consistency to condensed milk. It is basically the same as sweetened condensed milk when mixed with sugar. Clover Sonoma makes their heavy cream with organic cream and no additives.

365 by Whole Foods Market, Coconut Milk Organic

Full Fat Coconut milk can also be used. It will give you a slight coconut flavor in your recipes which is excellent for baked goods. Add honey, maple syrup, or sugar if you need it sweetened. It is also an excellent choice for those needing a vegan option.

Califia Farms – Oat Milk

Oat milk is another great vegan option. Oat milk has a thicker consistency than conventional milk and can be bought sweetened, making it an excellent alternative. Califia Farms oat milk is gluten-free, contains no thickeners or stabilizers

Califia Farms – Almond Milk

Almond milk is another option for condensed milk substitutes that is vegan. Almond milk has some natural thickness, and it can be bought sweetened if you need that for your recipe. It has more calcium than milk and is gluten-free. Just make sure you reduce the milk before using it to remove the water.