Does milk last long fresher: in carton or plastic jugs?

Question

My experience says the milk bought in the carton stays fresher longer but does anybody know why?

Answer 1

The biggest problem in keeping milk fresh is light. Many milk bottlers are now using opaque, usually white, jugs instead of translucent or transparent ones. The milk section of the dairy case in some stores are now using yellow lights instead of white ones. Since the cardboard cartons are opaque, the light does not get in and affect the quality of the milk. Therefore, if the plastic is 100% opaque, then your milk should last just as long as it does in cardboard.

Answer 2

Milk Carton Jug

Answer 3

Milk typically stays fresher in a carton, however some milk brands place it in a plastic jug and then do a colored jug (Like TG Lee) - when light can shine through to the milk, it spoils quicker. Worst way to store milk is in a glass pitcher.

Answer 4

All the grocery stores in my area carry milk in plastic jugs only. Only different types of juices are in cartons.

Answer 5

Carton and if you buy it in the clear plastic jugs, you'll run the risk of losing the Vitamin D because it dissipates when exposed to light.

Answer 6

The smell inside of a plastic jug becomes stinky even before the milk goes bad. Disgusting!

Answer 7

The carton will have fewer bacteria in it. However thoroughly you wash the jug, new airborne bacteria will settle on it in moments, and when you feed them with the milk they will set to work.

Answer 8

I think its because the cartons block out more light which can cause it to deteriorate faster. Also lots of the ones I see in cartons are marked ultra pasterized.

Answer 9

plastic jugs because it is 100% air tight

Answer 10

Uh.... Jug!!

It seals.. so it would stay fresher....