How long can a bottle of milk last without spoiling?

[robby]

Actually, the National Dairy Council draws a distinction between pasteurized milk, ultra-pasteurized milk, and ultra-high temperature (UHT) milk.

@National Dairy Council

Pasteurized Milk
Pasteurized milk is heated to 72°C (161°F) for 15 seconds. This method of heat treatment is designed to preserve the milk’s natural nutrients while ensuring safety. Pasteurized milk must be refrigerated and has a shelf life of 10–21 days. Packaging typically involves paper or plastic, and the package remains untreated.

• Heat Treatment: 72°C (161°F) for 15 seconds
• Shelf Life: 10–21 days
• Storage: Requires refrigeration

Ultra-Pasteurized Milk
Ultra-pasteurized milk undergoes a more intense heat treatment, where it is heated to 138°C (280°F) for 2 seconds. This process extends the milk’s shelf life to 30–90 days under refrigeration. Ultra-pasteurized milk is packaged in paper or plastic, with the package being treated with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) to ensure sterility and preserve freshness.

• Heat Treatment: 138°C (280°F) for 2 seconds
• Shelf Life: 30–90 days
• Storage: Requires refrigeration

UHT Milk
UHT milk is heated to 138°C (280°F) or higher for at least 2 seconds, making it nearly sterile. This high heat treatment not only kills bacteria but also allows the milk to remain shelf-stable for up to 6+ monthswithout refrigeration, until it is opened. UHT milk is packaged in a hermetically sealed container that is sterilized, ensuring the milk remains fresh and safe to consume.

• Heat Treatment: 138°C (280°F) or higher for 2+ seconds
• Shelf Life: 6+ months (unopened, no refrigeration needed)
• Storage: Shelf-stable, no refrigeration required

@Jackmannii

How long is it good after the sealed package is opened?

With refrigeration, ultra-pasteurized milk lasts about as long as regular pasteurized milk after it is opened.