Why Should You Not Boil Packaged Milk?

Milk is a powerhouse of calcium and those who grew up drinking it can vouch for its major health benefits, especially for bones and joints. It is also a powerhouse of protein loaded with all nine essential amino acids that your body cannot produce on its own. And since it is not easy to source fresh milk these days, most households rely on packaged milk for daily needs. Be it a tetra pack or a packet, many people boil that milk as well.

However, according to experts, you need to stop this.

Packaged milk undergoes pasteurization - a heat treatment process that kills harmful bacteria in food to make it safe to eat and extend its shelf life. According to experts, milk is usually heated at 71 degrees Celsius to kill avian influenza virus, mycobacterium, E. coli, Listeria, and Campylobacter – all of which can cause various illnesses and diseases.

Pasteurization not only kills harmful bacteria that are behind the spread of listeriosis, typhoid fever, tuberculosis, diphtheria, and brucellosis but also slows spoilage and extends the shelf life of food products. Doctors say since it does not affect the taste or nutritional value of the food, you must refrain from boiling milk.

Experts say re-boiling pasteurized milk damages the nutritional value of milk, causing other issues as well, like:

When you boil pasteurized milk at temperatures above 100°C for more than 10 minutes, the entire process depletes and kills off essential nutrients like vitamin D, which helps with calcium absorption

Re-boiling pasteurized reduces the vitamin content in the milk by at least 25 per cent

Boiling pasteurized milk significantly also lowers the whey protein content. Whey protein helps repair and strengthen bones, boost muscle synthesis, and boost weight loss and low cholesterol levels.

Boiling pasteurized milk can also change the taste and texture of milk.

While experts are totally against boiling pasteurized milk, a few benefits are also there but can just be termed as short-term.

Many people believe that boiling milk aids digestion by breaking down lactose and making it easier to digest.

Boiling milk is a traditional practice in many cultures, and some people find comfort in following this ritual.

And so, according to experts, to drink packaged milk, either have it chilled, or just warm it for 3-5 minutes. Also, it should never be confused with raw milk – which is not pasteurized and is advised to be consumed only after boiling, as it carries harmful bacteria.

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