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The Disadvantages of Pasteurised Milk & Powdered Milk

Pasteurization is the process of heating milk and then rapidly cooling it to eliminate harmful bacteria and lengthen shelf life. Powdered milk undergoes dehydration to create a product suitable for use in baby formula and baking. These products each have inherent disadvantages due to manufacturing methods. A loss of nutrients is one of the biggest problems.

  1. Removal of Good Bacteria and Essential Vitamins

    • According to non-profit human health advocacy group, The Weston A. Price Foundation, pasteurization removes beneficial bacteria from raw milk. The process also weakens protein chains in milk and diminishes vitamins and minerals. The pasteurization process completely eliminates vitamin C from milk. According to doctor of osteopathic medicine Joseph Mercola, writing for Pro Con's website, the lactic acid fermentation bacteria present in raw milk is helpful to the human body because it inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria and aids in digestion. This allows the body to absorb more nutrients.

    Allergic Reactions and Illness

    • Doctor Joseph Mercola also states that pasteurized milk presents a greater risk of allergic reaction to people as opposed to raw milk. Many people diagnosed as allergic to milk but not lactose intolerant are actually allergic to the way pasteurization alters the composition of milk. Additionally, the potential does exist for errors in the heating process of pasteurization which would actually promote the growth of harmful bacteria. This can pose a significant health risk.

    Lack of Antibodies and Health Risks

    • An infant consuming powdered milk as opposed to breast milk does not receive the antibodies necessary to build a strong immune system to fight infection. This lack of protection can place a newborn at risk for a serious illness. Powdered milk loses vitamin and mineral content in ways similar to pasteurization making it less beneficial for consumption. Powdered milk is a dehydrated product which means it must be reconstituted using water. If the water is unclean it can place anyone who consumes the milk at risk for bacterial infection.

    More Gas

    • Newborns who consume powdered milk products as opposed to liquid formula or breast milk have firmer stomachs and more gas. This can be uncomfortable for the child as the buildup of gas can lead to extended crying, refusal to eat and a rather unpleasant smell. The developing digestive systems of newborns are also susceptible to constipation from powdered milk products.

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