Are You Still Boiling Packet Milk Or Is It Just A Waste Of Time? Find Out if You Need To

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Whether it be tea or coffee, there is something you can't do without. Milk of course. Though yes, there are a lot of people who would argue that they love black coffee or black tea, many people do prefer these beverages white, that is with milk. Then there are people who say a complete no to such beverages and opt for plain milk whether it's mixed with Horlicks or Boost or nothing at all. It's also an ingredient that is needed in many cuisines and baked goods to improve texture and contribute to the overall nutritional value of the dish. And of course who can resist a yummy breakfast of cornflakes soaked in this white nutrient-rich liquid.

This milk falls in different categories - Cow's milk, plant-based milk alternatives, goat's milk and then there's pasteurised milk in milk packets or bottles. And this packet milk is the main focus of our story. The packet of milk that is bought from the markets or delivered to your doorstep, that is opened the instant you get your hands on and poured into the pan for boiling. But are you doing the right thing?According to experts, it's a no. Know why.

About Packet Milk

Packet milk, also known as UHT (Ultra High Temperature) milk, is super popular because it's convenient and lasts a long time. It goes through a pasteurisation process that heats it up to kill off harmful bacteria, making it safe to drink without boiling. Still, some people choose to boil their milk anyway, thinking it boosts both safety and flavour.

About Pasteurized Milk

To grasp why some people still boil packet milk, it's important to know how pasteurization works. This process involves heating milk to a specific temperature for a certain amount of time, which effectively kills off harmful pathogens like Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli. For packet milk, also referred to as UHT (Ultra High Temperature) milk, it is heated to about 135°C for just a few seconds, allowing it to be stored for months without refrigeration. This means you can safely drink packet milk straight from the pack!

The After-Effects of Boiling Packet Milk

When it comes to the nutritional value of packet milk, it's worth noting that boiling can lead to the loss of some vitamins, especially the heat-sensitive B vitamins. While this loss isn't usually huge, if you boil your milk often, it might reduce its nutritional benefits a bit. If you're mainly drinking milk for its calcium and protein, you might not even need to boil it!

One of the best things about packet milk is how convenient it is. Boiling milk adds an extra step to your routine, which might not work for everyone, especially those with busy lifestyles. For many, sipping milk straight from the pack is just easier. Plus, lots of people around the world enjoy packet milk without boiling it, showing that packet milk is becoming more widely accepted. The best example of this is enjoying an easy breakfast of cornflakes, rice krispies or chocos, that can be mixed into a bowl of raw milk.

Long-Lasting Until You Open It

Packet milk can last for months unopened, thanks to its long shelf life, which is usually marked on the package. But once you pop it open, it needs to go in the fridge and should be used up within a few days, just like any other perishable item. So, no need to refrigerate it until then, but once it's open, treat it like regular milk! Either drink it right then or store it for later use.

To Boil Or Not To Boil

For many people, boiling milk is all about improving the taste and texture. It enhances the flavour and makes the milk creamier, which is especially nice for recipes or drinks. If you enjoy boiled milk in your tea, coffee, or cooking, then go for it because ultimately, it's more about individual choice than a health necessity.

On another note, even though packet milk is usually safe thanks to pasteurization, there are also a few things to watch out for. One main concern is contamination after you open the pack. If the milk isn't stored correctly, bacteria can get in and cause spoilage. In those cases, boiling the milk after opening can help kill any bacteria that might have formed. So, if you notice any weird smells or tastes, it's actually a good idea to boil it!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.