Nutritionist Says Storing Milo Powder In Fridge Can Spoil It, Instead Of Extending Its Shelf Life

If you've been storing powdered drink mixes such as Milo, Horlicks, or cocoa in the fridge ‘cos you believe it keeps it fresh longer, you may be doing it wrong.

According to a nutritionist from Malaysia, this common practice may do more harm than good. 

In a Facebook post, the nutritionist, Anthony, explains that drink powders are low-moisture foods. So as long as they’re kept in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight, their quality generally remains stable. He adds that the packaging of such products were already designed by manufacturers in a way that makes them suitable for room-temperature storage. 

He then drops the most crucial part of his PSA — keeping drink powders in the fridge may affect its quality, and result in it going bad faster. 

The fridge provides a humid environment, and by opening the door frequently, we risk letting moisture into the packaging. 

He elaborates on several problems that may occur once the powder absorbs moisture. 

1. Damp conditions resulting in moisture buildup

When water vapour enters the package, it may cause clumping or frost formation in the powder, which affects its texture and how well it dissolves. 

2. Growth of bacteria

Moisture ruins the powder’s originally dry and stable condition. We all know how mold and bacteria are more likely to grow in such damp, clustered environments, and this could very well lead to concerns about food safety. 

3. Loss of flavour

The fridge contains various odours, whether it’s from the kimchi, durian, or overnight fried rice you’re storing. If the drink powder is not sealed tightly, it can absorb these unwanted smells, making your drink taste odd, and in some cases, unpleasant. 

Instead, Anthony recommends a few simple ways in which we can keep our favourite mixes good. 

He emphasises the importance of sealing the drink powder package tightly after opening.  Alternatively, you can opt to transfer the contents of the package into a clean airtight container. And always avoid using a damp spoon to scoop the powder. 

For storage, he strongly suggests choosing a cool, dry place, like a kitchen cabinet — free of moisture and sunlight. 

The last pointer is a no-brainer. He reminds consumers to keep track of the date in which they open the product, and recommends that the powder is best used up soon after opening, even if it’s before the expiry date. 

Keeping drink powders cold to extend their shelf life? Well, according to this nutritionist, it’s a myth.

Photos: Anthony营养师/ Facebook, Pexels/ cottonbro studio