Milk powder is a dried dairy product prepared by removing all the water from milk through evaporation. It can be stored without refrigeration until it is mixed with water for use in cooking or as a beverage. Its taste is also different from fresh milk, but this difference is not noticeable in cooked or prepared foods, making dried milk products a good choice when fresh milk is unavailable.
Milk powder can be made from whole milk, low-fat milk, or skim milk, although the flavor will vary slightly. Whole milk powder is typically produced by milk powder manufacturers for infants. When properly packaged and stored in a cool, dry place, milk powder lasts well for months and does not need refrigeration by itself, but once mixed with water, it requires refrigeration just like fresh milk.
Since the taste of milk prepared with milk powder is different from fresh milk when consumed as a drink, be sure to stir it well to avoid clumps and chill it thoroughly before drinking. It is also easier to transport than liquid milk and can be quickly converted back into a liquid. Powdered milk is generally much cheaper than liquid milk.
Types of Milk Powder
Currently, three types of milk powder are available on the market: Whole Milk Powder (WMP), Skim Milk Powder (SMP), and Instant Milk Powder. The difference between them lies in the percentage of specific ingredients and their field of application.
Health Benefits of Milk Powder
Consuming milk powder has many advantages and benefits. Here are a few:
- Normalizes the cardiovascular system.
- Aids with anemia.
- Helps strengthen the skeletal system, teeth, hair, and nails.
- Is absorbed much better than simple milk, therefore, in some cases, it can be a source of vitamins and minerals for people who cannot consume regular milk due to gastrointestinal diseases.
- Skim milk powder can be consumed by obese people.
- Regular consumption is believed to be a good prevention against diabetes.
- Has diuretic properties.
- Strengthens the nervous system.
- Reduces stomach acid levels.
- Helps with osteoporosis.
Uses and Applications of Milk Powder
Milk powder is used for many purposes. Here are some of the applications of this beneficial product:
- Pregnant Women Pregnant women can consume milk powder because it contains the necessary nutrients for fetal development, especially calcium, which forms the skeletal system.
- Nursing Mothers The use of milk powder is not prohibited for women who breastfeed their children. However, this should be done with care.
- Milk Powder as Baby Food A child’s or infant’s ability to consume milk powder depends on their age. The product itself is even preferred over ordinary milk, according to some experts. This is because powdered milk is diluted immediately before eating and will always be fresh, which eliminates the possibility of harmful substances forming within it.
- Pancreatitis Treatment People with this disease are advised to limit their dairy intake. However, they do not need to give up milk powder.
- Kidney Disease Treatment The use of milk powder should not be restricted. On the contrary, it is believed to be very beneficial for people with kidney diseases.
- Suitable for Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers Milk powder is very useful, provided it is diluted with water. The powder should not be consumed in its pure form, as its consistency can cause digestion problems. But if you prepare the milk mixture according to all the rules, it coats the stomach walls and promotes healing.