When you purchase milk, go directly to your car and go home as soon possible. Cover milk in your car to prevent light exposure. Use a blanket, a metal or plastic picnic chest, or a cardboard box. Return any unused milk to your refrigerator immediately after use in the kitchen or on the table. Light penetrates glass and plastic containers more readily than colored paper ones.
Milk absorbs odors and flavors of fish, onions, and other foods.
Keep milk containers covered or closed when stored in your refrigerator. Keep milk cold to preserve freshness and serve it cold for best flavor. The magic temperature is 40 F. or below for longest shelf life, the colder the better, down to just above freezing. Keep a thermometer in your refrigerator. Check the temperature of milk and food.