Types of Milk on the Market According to Their Processing
Milk is a key food in the lives of human beings. From birth until old age, milk is an important part of our daily diet. For this reason, it’s important to know a little more about the different types of milk on the market. That way, you can make the best decisions when buying milk, according to the specific requirements of each member of the family.
Different types of milk that exist on the market
From birth to old age, milk meets the different caloric and vitamin needs necessary for each stage of life. The nutritional density of milk is one of its main attributes. In fact, it has protein, fats, and minerals.
Without a doubt, milk is a significant source of energy. While you can drink milk directly from the cow’s udder, we don’t recommend this.
The best option is to use any type of milk as long as it has been processed. Regarding the procession of milk, there are basically two types of milk on the market: pasteurized and thermalized.
Although you can find these two types of milk on the market, their presentation may vary. For example, you can find whole, skimmed, semi-skimmed, long-lasting, and powdered milk, among others.
Difference between different types of milk
Raw milk
Raw milk is when you take milk directly from the animal’s udder. This type of milk usually has a stronger flavor than processed milk. In addition to its flavor, one of the main differences between raw milk and processed milk is the nutritional value.
Raw milk actually contains all the vitamins naturally. However, it’s best not to consume this milk until it has been processed.
Why? During milk processing, bacteria that can be harmful to humans are eliminated.
Types of milk: Pasteurized milk
Pasteurized milk is probably the best-known type of milk. It is one of the most widely-used processes in the world. In essence, it allows the product to have an extended life.
The pasteurizing process consists of treating milk to eliminate microorganisms and bacteria. This way, it’s not only possible to prolong the life of milk, but it also makes it suitable for human consumption.
Treatments for milk processing
Thermalized milk
Thermalization consists of subjecting milk to high temperatures, between 143 to 149 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 seconds. Unlike pasteurized milk, this process maintains the original flavor. This is mainly because pasteurized milk is processed at lower temperatures, although there are pasteurization processes that can reach higher temperatures.
Like pasteurizing, thermalization helps eliminate microorganisms that are harmful for human consumption. This process also extends the life of the product.
UHT milk
This milk is the most sterile type on the market. This type of processing completely eliminated all microorganisms and bacteria. Subsequently, processors place the milk in completely sterilized, hermetic containers.
It’s important and interesting to know about the different processes for treating raw milk. Milk processors focus on the different needs that arise throughout the lives of human beings.
In terms of age, during the first years of life, it’s best to consume only UHT milk. Then, each individual’s tastes and indications can help decide what type of milk is suitable or them.
The market has so many different kinds of dairy, which all come in different forms. Thanks to the different treatment processes, you can determine which type of milk is most suitable according to the necessary requirements for each member of your family.