Pasteurized Milk: Myths and Proven Facts

Pasteurization is a process that kills harmful bacteria by heating milk to a specific temperature for a set period. Some people continue to believe that pasteurization harms milk and that raw milk is a safe, healthier alternative.

Raw milk can harbor dangerous microorganisms, such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and Listeria, that can pose serious health risks, and children are particularly susceptible to the potential infections of unpasteurized or raw milk.

Here are some common myths and proven facts about milk and pasteurization.

• Raw milk DOES NOT kill dangerous pathogens by itself.
• Pasteurizing milk DOES NOT cause lactose intolerance and allergic reactions. Raw and pasteurized milk can cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to milk proteins.
• Pasteurization DOES NOT reduce milk’s nutritional value.
• Pasteurization DOES NOT mean that it is safe to leave milk out of the refrigerator for an extended time, particularly after it has been opened.
• Pasteurization DOES kill harmful bacteria.
• Pasteurization DOES save lives.

Courtesy of FoodSafety.com. Source: www.foodsafety.gov/keep/types/milk