Kalber Dairy Export Department

In the field of dairy products, understanding shelf life is critical to ensure freshness, taste, and most importantly, safety. From UHT sterilized milk to butter, cheese, yogurt, and cream, each of our dairy products has its own unique shelf life. In this comprehensive guide, we examine the shelf life of these dairy foods so you can make informed choices and reduce food waste.

Sterilized milk:

UHT milk or sterilized milk is one of the main ingredients in many families due to its long shelf life. Unopened refrigerated milk can last up to six to nine months when stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. After opening, it is best to use within 5 to 10 days. The magic lies in the ultra-pasteurization process, which raises the temperature of the milk to kill harmful bacteria and ensure its shelf life. Sterilized milk and flavored sterilized milk from kalber dairy have a shelf life of 6 months.

Fresh milk:

Compared to UHT milk, fresh milk has a shorter shelf life. Unopened containers usually last about a week in the refrigerator, while some ultra-filtered varieties may last up to three weeks.

Butter:

Butter is known for its versatility in cooking. When stored in the refrigerator, butter can stay fresh for months, even up to a year. However, for optimal taste and texture, it is recommended to consume within 1-3 months. You can also freeze butter for long-term storage, up to 9-12 months, without compromising its quality. Kalber Dairy bulk animal-fat butter, 25 kilograms, has a shelf life of 24 months.

Cheese:

Depending on its type, cheese can have a significant shelf life. Hard cheeses such as cheddar and parmesan can last up to six months if stored properly in the refrigerator. Semi-soft cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda have a slightly shorter shelf life, usually around three months. Soft cheeses such as brie or camembert should be consumed within two weeks of opening. Kalber's assorted cheeses, depending on their type and packaging, have a shelf life ranging from 3 to 6 months.

Yogurt:

Yogurt is not only delicious but also full of probiotics that are good for your gut health. Unopened yogurt usually lasts 3-5 weeks in the refrigerator. Once opened, try to finish it within 7-10 days to preserve its freshness and probiotic content. Always check for signs of spoilage, such as a bad smell or unusual texture.

Sterilized - UHT cream:

UHT cream, just like UHT milk, has a longer shelf life due to the very high-temperature pasteurization process. Unopened containers of UHT cream can last up to 6 months, making them a great option for enriching your food. After opening, for optimal quality, it is best to consume it within 7 to 10 days. Kalber's sterilized cream has a shelf life of 6 months.

Storage tips for dairy products

To maximize the shelf life of your dairy products, here are some essential tips:

Store at a cool temperature: Store all dairy products in the refrigerator between 34 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit (1 to 3 degrees Celsius) to reduce bacterial growth.

Check the expiration date: Always buy dairy products with the longest possible expiration date to ensure their shelf life.

Pack tightly: Seal opened dairy containers with tight-fitting lids or plastic wrap to prevent exposure to air and odors.

Expiry date: To measure freshness, pay attention to the "best before" date on the package.

Smell and taste: Trust your senses. If the dairy has a sour smell or taste, it is better to throw it away.

In the end, understanding the shelf life of dairy products is essential to reducing food waste and ensuring they are enjoyed at their freshest. From long-life UHT milk to the creamy delights of butter and cheese, every dairy product has its own timeline. By following proper storage instructions and practicing good food safety habits, you can enjoy the wonderful world of dairy.

To contact the Kalber Dairy Export Department, please refer to the Contact Us section.