Pasteurized Cow's Milk

Pasteurized cow's milk is milk collected from cows that has undergone a heating process called pasteurization. This process involves heating the milk to a specific temperature for a set period to eliminate harmful bacteria, making it safe for consumption and extending its shelf life.

Manufacturers use pasteurized cow's milk as a foundational ingredient in a wide range of dairy products, including cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. It is valued for its nutritional content, providing protein and calcium, and for its role in contributing to the texture, flavor, and moisture of many food items.

Cow's milk is a common food item and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It is a good source of essential nutrients like protein and calcium, and is often fortified with vitamin D. A common concern is lactose intolerance, a digestive condition where individuals have difficulty digesting the natural sugar (lactose) found in milk, leading to symptoms like bloating or discomfort. As a primary food, milk is not typically evaluated by organizations like JECFA or EFSA in the same way food additives are.