Regardless of whether you prefer whole or skimmed milk and what type of packaging it comes in, the way you store it can impact its shelf life and taste.

It’s not just about the fridge settings as the placement and handling of milk play a crucial role in preventing spoilage.

You might be surprised to learn that simple adjustments, like where you keep your milk in the fridge and how you seal it, can lead to a much longer shelf life.

And while expiration dates provide guidance, your senses can be powerful allies in assessing freshness.

If you’re looking for innovative ways to extend the life of your milk, there are some effective techniques that can be easily implemented.

Vlatka Lake, storage expert at self-storage operator Space Station, told Express.co.uk that one way to preserve milk’s freshness is by adding one common kitchen ingredient to it.

She said: “Milk, whether whole or skimmed, is best stored at around 3°C (37°F). In most fridges, this temperature is typically found on a lower shelf towards the back.

“Keeping milk towards the back of the fridge is beneficial, as it remains at a more stable temperature, away from the door’s fluctuating conditions.

“Exposure to air can cause milk to spoil more quickly, so it’s crucial to keep it sealed and stored in a consistently chilled environment.”

The expert went on to highlight that, while the "use by" date serves as a helpful reference, your senses—like smell and taste—can often provide a more accurate indication of freshness.

She added: “If you want to extend the shelf life of milk, consider freezing it before its use-by date.

“Transfer the milk into an airtight container or ice cube trays for freezing. Just be sure not to freeze milk that is already past its expiration. Also, not many people know that adding a pinch of salt to your milk can make it last longer.

“Salt preserves the milk and keeps it from going off quickly. You won’t taste any salt as a small pinch is enough.”