My Father-in-Law Freezes Milk All the Time and Uses It Weeks Later. How Long Can Frozen Milk Last? Is It Safe to Drink After 4–5 Weeks?
My father-in-law freezes milk to prevent waste, using it weeks later in coffee, cereal, or recipes. Initially skeptical, I learned it’s a common, money-saving habit. But is milk frozen for 4–5 weeks safe to drink?
Yes, milk can be safely frozen for up to 3 months, per the USDA, though the FDA suggests 1 month for best flavor. At 4–5 weeks, it’s safe but may have slight texture or taste changes due to ice crystals separating fat and water. Shaking it helps.
To freeze properly: use fresh milk, sealed containers, and leave headspace for expansion. Freeze in small portions and label with dates. Thaw in the fridge for 24–48 hours, never at room temperature, and use within 3–5 days. Check for sour smells, clumps, or off tastes before using.
Frozen milk works great in coffee, smoothies, baking, or soups, where texture changes are less noticeable. Your father-in-law’s trick is safe and smart, cutting waste and stretching budgets. Milk frozen for 4–5 weeks, if stored and thawed correctly, is perfectly usable, though it may taste slightly different when drunk straight.
