Viral Incident in Indonesian Minimarket Prompts Discussion on Difference Between UHT and Pasteurised milk

Recently, a viral video on social media showed an angry woman buying UHT milk at a minimarket. In the video, the woman asked for her money back because the milk she received was not cold. 

Many netizens found her reaction excessive and suggested immediately storing the milk in the refrigerator instead of getting angry in front of the minimarket cashier.

Difference between UHT and Pasteurised Milk Storage

Professor Dr Ir Hardinsyah, MS, Chairman of Pergizi Pangan Indonesia, explained that pasteurised milk needs to be stored in the refrigerator. ‘Pasteurised milk has a short shelf life if left at room temperature. They can last only a few days because pasteurisation technology does not kill all microbes,’ explained Prof Hardinsyah. Meanwhile UHT milk is processed using heating technology with very high temperatures of around 135-145 degrees Celsius for 2-4 seconds. This process ensures that all harmful microbes are killed, so UHT milk can be stored at room temperature without the risk of microbial contamination as long as the packaging remains tightly closed.

The first step in properly storing UHT milk is ensuring the packaging remains intact and undamaged. The sterile and sealed packaging makes it safe to store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the UHT milk has been opened, storing it in the refrigerator is important to maintain its freshness and avoid bacterial growth. Once opened, it should be consumed within 3-4 days if stored in the refrigerator. Additionally, it should be gone within an hour if it has been exposed to saliva.

UHT Milk Process and Safety

Unlike pasteurised milk, UHT (Ultra High Temperature) milk is processed with a high heating technique to kill bacteria in a short time, at 135-145 degrees Celsius for 2-4 seconds. ‘This process makes UHT milk safe for consumption even though it is stored at room temperature,’ continued Prof Hardinsyah. Thus, UHT milk can be stored at room temperature for up to 6-12 months. This is only if it is not exposed to direct sunlight and the packaging is maintained.

Pasteurised milk, on the other hand, goes through a milder heating process. The pasteurisation technique generally involves heating milk to a temperature of about 63 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes or 72-75 degrees Celsius for 15-20 seconds. This process aims to kill most pathogenic bacteria without destroying the essential nutrients contained in the milk. Pasteurisation does not kill all microorganisms, but it is enough to ensure that milk is safe for consumption within a short period of time after processing, as long as it is kept at a cool temperature.

Storage Duration of Opened Milk

Clinical nutrition specialist Dr Putri Sakti, MGizi, SpGK, adds that UHT milk that is still sealed is safe to store at room temperature. ‘UHT milk has undergone a sterilisation process, so if it is still sealed, it is actually safe to store at room temperature,’ said Dr Putri. The sterilisation process involves heating at very high temperatures, which effectively kills all harmful microorganisms. This allows the milk to remain safe for consumption even if it is not stored in the refrigerator.

Risks of Improper Storage

Storing opened UHT milk at room temperature for more than two hours can increase the risk of exposure to germs, viruses and bacteria that can disrupt digestion. ‘Once it has been opened, if it has been exposed to saliva, it must be consumed within one hour,’ explains Dr Putri. If the milk has not been exposed to saliva, it can still be stored for up to two hours at room temperature, but it is safer if it is immediately stored in the refrigerator.

Once the UHT milk packaging is opened, the milk becomes more susceptible to microbial contamination from the surrounding environment. Germs, viruses and bacteria can enter the milk through air or direct contact. This can accelerate the spoilage process and potentially cause digestive problems if consumed. Therefore, it is important to consume opened UHT milk immediately or store it in the refrigerator to prolong its freshness.

Netizen Comments and Reactions

Many netizens deplored the actions of the woman in the viral video. Some suggested that milk that has been purchased should be immediately stored in the refrigerator at home. ‘Just put it in the refrigerator at home, ma’am. Items that have been purchased cannot be exchanged/returned, do you understand?’ wrote @min***.

Some netizens explain the difference between the two types of milk. ‘You have to differentiate between UHT milk and pasteurised milk. For UHT, you don’t need to put it in the refrigerator because the pathogenic bacteria have been killed by heating at a high temperature. For pasteurised milk, because the heating uses a low temperature, the pathogenic bacteria are still there. So, pasteurised milk needs to be stored in the refrigerator and must be consumed quickly,’ wrote @Oni***.

The Importance of Reading Dairy Product Labels

This viral incident emphasises the importance of reading product labels before buying. Understanding the difference between the two types of milk and how they are stored can prevent misunderstandings. Prof Hardinsyah reminds us to always pay attention to the packaging label and expiry date of the purchased dairy products. ‘Therefore, read the label before buying UHT milk products, it is usually safe to store up to 6-12 months at room temperature,’ he concluded.

Maintaining the Quality and Safety of UHT Milk

This incident is a lesson for all of us about the importance of understanding how to store milk properly. Properly stored UHT milk will remain safe and healthy for consumption. Make sure the UHT milk you buy is still in good condition. You should also check its expiry date and store it according to the instructions to ensure its safety when consumed. Thus, we can enjoy the benefits of UHT milk without worrying about health risks.