As a food safety expert with extensive knowledge in the field of dairy products, I can tell you that while the expiration date on milk cartons is designed to indicate the last date of guaranteed quality, it is possible for milk to spoil before that date under certain conditions. Here's how you can identify if milk has gone bad:


1. Smell: The most immediate way to tell if milk has gone bad is by its smell. Fresh milk has a sweet, creamy aroma, while sour milk will have a strong, unpleasant odor.


2. Visual Changes: Milk can also change in appearance. Fresh milk is a uniform color, typically white. If you notice any discoloration, such as a yellowish tint or the presence of mold, it's a sign that the milk has spoiled.


3. Texture: Good quality milk is smooth and has no lumps. If the milk has curdled or separated into a watery layer and a lumpy layer, it's no longer good to consume.


4. Taste: If you're still unsure, you can taste a small amount of milk. Spoiled milk will have a sour or bitter flavor.


5. Use a Milk Tester: Some people use milk testing equipment to check for freshness, but this is more common in a professional setting.

Remember, when in doubt, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard the milk. Consuming spoiled milk can lead to foodborne illnesses.

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the first thing that goes off in milk is the taste - this is because the germs cause fermentation before it is actually unsafe to consume. In short, if it smells good, use it. The date stamped on milk cartons is neither an expiration date, nor a best by date (at least in the USA).read more >>