Dairy products like milk, yogurt, cheese, butter, and cream are highly perishable. Proper storage can significantly extend their freshness and minimize waste. As seasoned food storage specialists, here are our top 5 proven tips for keeping dairy at its best.
1. Extend milk's shelf life by freezing it properly
Milk expands when frozen, so leave extra space in the container to prevent bursting. Always label with the date. Thaw frozen milk overnight in the refrigerator or submerge the sealed container in cold water. It maintains quality for up to 3 months.
2. Avoid storing milk and dairy in the refrigerator door
The door experiences the most temperature fluctuations, causing dairy to spoil faster.
3. Freeze cheese in airtight containers for 6-9 months
Hard varieties like Cheddar, Swiss, and Monterey Jack freeze best (shredded cheese works great too!). Label the date and thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Use thawed cheese in cooked dishes for optimal texture.
4. Store butter in the freezer using plastic containers
Salted butter lasts up to 12 months, while unsalted keeps for about 6 months. Thaw by microwaving for 10 seconds until soft or refrigerating for 24 hours.
5. Store carton dairy products upside down
Turn sour cream, yogurt, and ice cream cartons upside down to prevent mold growth and ice crystal formation.
