Prab at 10:36, 24 September 2023

2023-09-24T10:36:29Z

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[[File:Milk glass.jpg|A glass of milk|thumb]]
'''Milk''' is a [[white]] [[liquid]] primarily produced by [[mammal]]s, such as [[cow]]s, [[dog]]s, and [[human]]s. It originates from the [[mammary gland]]s of [[female]] mammals<ref name="Encyclopedia Brittanica">{{Cite web |url= https://www.britannica.com/topic/milk |title=Milk |work=Encyclopedia Britannica |accessdate=20 September 2023}}</ref>. Newborn mammals, lacking [[teeth]], are typically nurtured with milk before transitioning to solid foods. Milk is packed with vital [[nutrient]]s essential for the growth and health of the young. Additionally, milk serves as a primary source of calcium, which promotes bone and dental health.

== Storage and Preservation ==
Milk's shelf life can be drastically reduced if not appropriately stored. Without refrigeration, it quickly turns [[wikt:sour|sour]]. This souring results from the fermentation process where [[Pediococcus|lactic acid bacteria]] convert milk sugars into [[lactic acid]]<ref>{{Cite web |url= https://www.sciencedaily.com/terms/lactic_acid_fermentation.htm |title=Lactic Acid Fermentation |work=ScienceDaily |accessdate=20 September 2023}}</ref>. The fermentation principle is foundational in the production of various [[dairy product]]s.

To extend milk's shelf life and ensure it's safe for consumption, it's commonly [[pasteurisation|pasteurised]]. This heat treatment eliminates harmful pathogens. Dairy products derived from milk include [[cream]], [[butter]], [[yoghurt]], [[ice cream]], and [[cheese]]. For best results, pasteurised cow's milk should be stored at temperatures between 1° and 4° [[Celsius]]. Ultra-high temperature (UHT) processing allows milk to remain unspoiled for prolonged periods, even without refrigeration until the seal is broken.

== Lactose and Digestibility ==
Lactose, a sugar found in milk, can present digestive challenges for some. While infants produce an [[enzyme]] called [[lactase]] to digest lactose, its production may diminish in adults, leading to [[lactose intolerance]]<ref name="NIH-Lactose">{{Cite web |url= https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/lactose-intolerance |title=Lactose Intolerance |work=National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases |accessdate=20 September 2023}}</ref>. As a result, individuals might opt for lactose-free alternatives such as [[soy milk]], which is derived from [[soy bean|soybeans]] and is distinct from mammalian milk in its chemical composition.

== Goat Milk ==
Goat's milk, produced by [[goat]]s, offers both nutritive and culinary value. Consumed by humans and goat kids, it can also be processed into [[goat's milk cheese]]<ref>{{Cite web |url= https://cheese.com/goat-cheese/ |title=Goat Cheese |work=cheese.com |accessdate=20 September 2023}}</ref>.

== Coconut Milk ==
Distinct from animal-derived milk, [[coconut milk]] is a plant-based liquid that bears a white appearance similar to milk but with a distinct composition and nutritional profile. Extracted from the pulpy "meat" of [[coconut]]s, it's a common ingredient in cuisines worldwide, especially in dishes like [[Thai food|Thai]] [[curry]]. Additionally, coconut cream is a denser version of coconut milk with added sugars.

== Nutritional Value ==
Milk is a nutrient-dense beverage contributing significantly to daily nutritional requirements. With abundant [[calcium]], it reinforces bone and teeth health. Milk is also a source of high-quality [[protein]]s and essential vitamins<ref>{{Cite web |url= https://www.dairygoodness.ca/good-health/dairy-facts-fallacies |title=Dairy Facts and Fallacies |work=Dairy Goodness |accessdate=20 September 2023}}</ref>. However, certain dairy products like [[cream]], [[cottage]] [[cheese]], ricotta cheese, and [[cream cheese]] may have varying calcium contents.

== References ==
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Milk - Revision history

Prab at 10:36, 24 September 2023