How is donkey milk processed and prepared for consumption?

How is donkey milk processed?

Donkeys give small amounts of milk, so it is a niche product, often made on small farms. After milking, the milk is cooled quickly and then usually heat-treated to kill harmful bacteria.

How is donkey milk pasteurized?

A published study that tested small-scale equipment looked at these two methods:

In that study, the short HTST treatment reduced total aerobic bacteria and brought Enterobacteriaceae to undetectable levels. Results were preliminary because the study used a single milk pool, and the authors say effects on shelf life still need testing.

Why not drink it raw?

The FDA defines raw milk as any milk from cows, sheep, goats or any other animal that is not pasteurized, and says it can carry germs such as Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria and Campylobacter. Pregnant women, children, older adults and people with weak immune systems face the highest risk. Buy milk labeled pasteurized.

How do you prepare and drink it?

• Keep it in the fridge and use it by the date on the pack; follow the maker’s advice for frozen products.
• It can be drunk cold or gently warmed.
• Follow the maker’s label for how to use it.

Is it a replacement for cow milk?

It is expensive and hard to find. It is sometimes studied as an option for cow milk allergy, but do not try it without advice from a doctor or allergist. Donkey milk contains lactose, so it is not for lactose intolerance by default. Claims about beauty or healing powers are not supported by the official pages we read.