Tag: Carton milk

Over 97% of milk sold in the U.S. is pasteurized to ensure safety and extend shelf life, a process that is also used for milk stored in cartons. This means that the product you find in the dairy aisle is, in fact, real milk that has undergone necessary processing to make it safe and consistent for consumption.

According to Dairy Safe Victoria, pasteurized milk can last for up to 14 days when refrigerated, while Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) carton milk can last for months unopened, without preservatives. This extended shelf-life often sparks a debate: is carton milk healthy and as nutritious as its fresh counterpart?

While both carton milk and fresh milk are excellent sources of essential nutrients, a 2011 meta-analysis on pasteurization showed minimal impact on overall nutritional value, though some differences exist. This leads many to wonder, **is carton milk healthier than fresh milk**, or is it simply a matter of preference and convenience? This article explores the science behind the processing and nutrition of each type.

According to the USDA, powdered milk can be stored almost indefinitely in an unopened, airtight package, a major contrast to the limited shelf life of carton milk. This longevity is just one of many factors to consider when asking: is powdered milk better than carton milk?