What is Non-Fermented Milk and how is it different from fermented milk?
Non-fermented milk, such as ordinary pasteurized milk, has not been acted on by microorganisms to lower its pH. Fermented milk, such as yogurt or kefir, has been fermented by microorganisms, so it is more acidic and has less lactose. The old claim that non-fermented milk is raw milk is wrong.
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In this article
What is non-fermented milk?
It is milk that has not gone through fermentation, such as pasteurized milk in the supermarket. It is not necessarily raw: pasteurized, homogenized, skim and whole milk are all non-fermented. Fermentation is a separate step in which microorganisms change the milk.
What is fermented milk?
Under the Codex Alimentarius definition, fermented milk is a dairy product obtained by fermentation of milk, which lowers its pH, with or without coagulation. Examples include yogurt, kefir, Yakult, koumiss, lassi, leben and shrikhand.
How do they differ?
| Non-fermented milk | Fermented milk | |
|---|---|---|
| Process | Heat-treated, not cultured | Cultured by bacteria, sometimes yeast |
| Taste | Mild, sweet | Tangy to sour |
| Lactose | About 4.9 percent in pasteurized milk | Lower: about 4 percent in yogurt, reductions of 14 to 74 percent reported |
| Live cultures | None | Present in fresh products; doubtful in long-life ones |
| Examples | Pasteurized milk, UHT milk | Yogurt, kefir, buttermilk, lassi |
Does fermented milk have less lactose?
Somewhat. Fermentation lowers lactose, but not to zero, and the amount varies by product. If you are lactose intolerant, test your own tolerance and ask a doctor or dietitian.
Is fermented milk healthier?
Possible health benefits of fermented milks are still being studied and are not settled fact. Non-fermented milk is also a good source of protein, calcium and other nutrients. Choose by taste, cost and your own tolerance.
How should each be stored?
Refrigerate both and follow the date on the pack. Fermented products last longer in the fridge than fresh milk, but check the label.
Can you cook with both?
Yes. Non-fermented milk suits sauces and drinks. Fermented milk adds acidity for baking, marinades and dips.
People also ask
Is pasteurized milk fermented?
No. Pasteurization is heat treatment; it is not fermentation.
Do fermented milks have less lactose?
Yes, but not zero. Reductions of 14 to 74 percent are reported.
Is non-fermented milk the same as raw milk?
No. Most non-fermented milk in stores is pasteurized.
Sources
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