The temperature for milk pasteurization, also known as the milk pasteurization temperature, typically ranges from 63°C to 72°C (145°F to 161°F). This process involves heating the milk to a specific temperature for a set period to eliminate harmful bacteria while preserving the milk’s flavor and nutritional value. The exact temperature and duration depend on the type of milk and the pasteurization method used. Ultra-high temperature (UHT) pasteurization involves heating milk to around 135°C (275°F) for a few seconds, extending its shelf life without refrigeration.
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Milk pasteurization is a crucial process in the dairy industry to ensure the safety and quality of milk products. The process was developed by Louis Pasteur in the 19th century as a way to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in milk. Pasteurization involves heating the milk to a specific temperature for a set period and then rapidly cooling it to kill bacteria while retaining the milk’s flavor and nutritional properties.
There are several methods of pasteurizing milk, including:
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High-temperature short-time (HTST) pasteurization: This is the most common method, where milk is heated to 72°C (161°F) for 15 seconds, followed by rapid cooling. This process kills most harmful bacteria while preserving the milk’s quality.
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Ultra-high temperature (UHT) pasteurization: In this method, milk is heated to around 135°C (275°F) for a few seconds, then quickly cooled. UHT pasteurization extends the shelf life of milk without refrigeration, making it suitable for long-term storage.
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Low-temperature long-time (LTLT) pasteurization: This method involves heating milk to 63°C (145°F) for 30 minutes, followed by cooling. Although less common, LTLT pasteurization is still used for certain dairy products.
The choice of pasteurization method depends on factors such as the intended use of the milk, shelf life requirements, and regulations in different regions. Regardless of the method used, pasteurization plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of milk and dairy products consumed by people around the world.