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What is UHT Milk? Everything You Need To Know

Find out more about what UHT milk is, how it’s made and why it could become a game-changer for your busy family life.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that there’s just one type of milk - especially if you’ve only ever had fresh milk in your fridge. However, whether you’re looking for a convenient backup to have on-hand for emergencies (and save you a last-minute trip to the corner shop!) or you’ve simply stumbled across it during a wander down the supermarket aisles - you might be wondering what long-life milk is.

Fuss-free and perfect for those days when life feels like a whirlwind - it offers a number of benefits. But what is UHT milk, what does it stand for and how could it help you? We’ve got you covered with all the information you need to decide if UHT milk is right for you.

 

How is UHT Milk Made?

UHT, or ‘ultra heat treatment’ milk is made using a simple yet brilliant process. The milk is heated to ultra-high temperatures of at least 135°C for just a few seconds, which aims to kill harmful bacteria and extend its shelf-life whilst retaining as many nutrients as possible. 

Once heated, it is then flash cooled to around 4°C to help prevent it from cooking or losing that distinctive, creamy flavour. Then, it is sealed in a sterile, airtight carton, allowing it to be stored in a cupboard for months until opened.

It’s a time-saver and a lifesaver for busy families juggling mornings, mealtimes and everything in between.

 

What’s the Difference Between Fresh Milk and UHT?

Whilst fresh milk and UHT milk might look the same, there are a few subtle differences.

 

Shelf-Life

Perhaps the most well-known difference between the two is that fresh milk is pasteurised, which is a more gentle method than ultra high temperature processing. Although this helps to preserve more of the flavour and nutrients, it does mean that it has a much shorter shelf-life of around 7-10 days.

On the other hand, unopened UHT milk has a shelf-life of over six months, making it ideal for those chaotic mornings where your fresh milk has gone a little sour.

 

Storage

There’s nothing worse than trying to fit cartons of fresh milk into a fridge filled with condiments, leftovers and vegetables that are most certainly past their best.

One of the biggest advantages of using UHT milk is that it can be stored in a cupboard at room temperature until it’s opened, saving you precious shelf space in your fridge.

 

Packaging

One of the biggest visible differences between UHT and pasteurised milk is the packaging. Whilst fresh milk usually comes in plastic or glass bottles or a carton, UHT milk comes in a Tetra Pak to help keep it fresh and free from contamination.

 

UHT Milk’s Benefits for Your Budget

UHT milk is more than just a convenient option - it’s a real winner when it comes to saving you money and reducing waste.

With its long shelf life, you can stock up without worrying about it spoiling before you get through it, so you can buy in bulk and cut down on those last-minute trips to a corner shop.

 

How to Store UHT Milk

When it comes to the best way to store UHT milk, it will depend on whether or not it has been opened.

If it’s unopened, it can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dark cupboard. We’d always suggest chilling it for a few hours before using it in anything like cereal or iced coffee to make it taste extra fresh.

Once opened, pop it in the fridge and use it within seven days to avoid any unwanted surprises when you come to make your morning coffee.

 

Is UHT Milk Nutritious?

UHT milk isn’t just a handy choice to have on hand, it’s also a healthy choice for your family. Despite the heating process, it retains most of the essential nutrients found in fresh milk.

It provides a source of calcium and protein, both of which are crucial for helping to maintain healthy teeth, bones and muscles - especially for growing kids.

The best part? You’re getting all these benefits with a milk that stays fresh for longer, making it a great fit for busy family life that sometimes needs more convenient options, without compromising on nutrition.

UHT milk is a smart choice for families looking to simplify their grocery routine and create more time and money for the things that matter most—like family moments and fun activities!

 

Whether you’re managing busy schedules or trying to cut down on those last-minute runs to the shop, we can help you make life that little bit easier with our milk delivery service. Whether you opt for UHT, fresh or a combination of the two - it’ll take one thing off your mind. Browse our selection of milk today to find one that works for you and your family.