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Foods -- Dairy Products

What is UHT milk?

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Ultra High Temperature (UHT) milk is regular fluid milk that is packed in an airtight sterilized, cardboard (tetra brik) container. The product is made by flash sterilization -- processing at 290 degrees F, which is twice the temperature of normal pasteurization. This kills any bacteria or microorganisms. The milk is then packed into sterilized containers. This milk is then shelf stable for six months. After that time, there may be flavor and color changes and thickening of the product. It is still safe but may not produce the desired effect in food preparation. Once opened, the milk must be refrigerated.

PREPARED BY: Angela M. Fraser, Ph.D., Associate Professor/Food Safety Specialist, and Carolyn J. Lackey, Ph.D., R.D., L.D.N., Professor/Food and Nutrition Specialist, North Carolina State University (August 2004)