Milk is a staple food item that is a part of many people’s diets all around the world. Packed with calcium, vitamin D, protein, and fats, it's a powerhouse of essential nutrients. However, it’s important to note that not all milk is created equal. In fact, there are different types of milk available in the market.
Two of the most popular types of milk are long life milk and fresh milk. While both of these types of milk are derived from cows and provide essential nutrients, they differ in their processing, nutritional content, and usage.
Below, we delve deeper into the differences between long life milk and fresh milk with an aim to help you make an informed choice about which type of milk to buy.
What is long life milk?
Long life milk is a type of milk that has been sterilized at high temperatures, usually around 135-150°C, for a short period, typically around two to five seconds.
This process, known as ultra-high temperature (UHT) sterilization, kills all bacteria and microorganisms in the milk, which allows it to be stored at room temperature - prior to opening - for up to six months without spoiling.
What is fresh milk?
Fresh milk is pasteurized. Pasteurization is a process that involves heating the milk to a temperature of 72°C for 15 seconds or 63°C for 30 minutes. This process kills most of the bacteria in the milk, which helps extend its shelf life. However, fresh milk still needs to be refrigerated and has a shorter shelf life than long life milk.
Nutritional differences
One of the main differences between long life milk and fresh milk is the nutritional content. Long life milk undergoes a more intensive heat treatment than fresh milk, which can cause some of the nutrients in the milk to break down.
For example, Vitamin B12, a necessary ingredient for the nervous system, can be lost as a result of heat treatment. Long life milk also tends to have a slightly sweeter taste than fresh milk due to the caramelization of lactose during the heat treatment process.
Fresh milk, on the other hand, retains more of its nutritional content than long life milk during the pasteurization process. The majority of the germs in milk are killed during the process, but the milk's nutritional value is unaffected.
Fresh milk is also richer in flavor than long life milk due to the presence of enzymes and bacteria that break down the milk proteins and fats.
Usage differences
Long life milk is more convenient to use than fresh milk, as it does not need to be refrigerated prior to being opened and has a longer shelf life. This makes it perfect for usage in situations like camping or outdoor activities where refrigeration is not available.
Long life milk is also commonly used in baking, as it has a more stable protein structure than fresh milk, which can help produce better results.
Fresh milk is best used for drinking and in recipes that require the fresh flavor of milk. It is also commonly used in the production of cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products, as the enzymes and bacteria in the milk help create the desired texture and flavor.
Got milk? Of course we do!
When making a purchase, it is important to know the distinctions between fresh milk and long life milk. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to your needs and tastes.
Baladna offers authentic, fresh, and high-quality dairy products, including long life milk and fresh milk! We safeguard the wellness of our customers by offering organic, nutrient-dense, and delectable foods and beverages while adhering to the strictest biosecurity and food safety standards. Enjoy our products today!
