As a food safety expert with extensive knowledge in the field of dairy products, I can provide you with several indicators to determine if milk has gone bad. Here's how you can tell:
1. Smell: The most immediate way to tell if milk is bad is by its smell. Fresh milk has a mild, creamy aroma, while sour milk will have a strong, unpleasant odor.
2. Taste: If the smell doesn't provide a clear answer, you can also taste the milk. Spoiled milk will taste sour or bitter.
3. Visual Appearance: Check for any changes in color. Milk that has gone bad may appear curdled or have a yellowish tinge.
4. Consistency: Spoiled milk can become lumpy or separated, with a layer of liquid (whey) on top.
5. Expiration Date: Always check the expiration date on the container. If the milk is past its expiration date, it's safer to discard it.
6. Mold: If you see any mold, the milk is definitely bad and should not be consumed.
Remember, when in doubt, it's best to throw it out. Consuming spoiled milk can lead to foodborne illnesses.
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