In the United States, milk is generally purchased in liquid form, and milk powder is not regarded as a stand-alone dietary staple. Rather, powdered milk is primarily used as an ingredient in other products, such as infant formula, candies, and other edible goods.
However, for much of the world, powdered milk is the primary source of milk product, particularly in developing countries with scarce transportation, storage, and refrigeration resources. Its versatility, high nutrient concentration, and long shelf life make it invaluable to the lives of millions worldwide, an essential part of food aid supplies, and a key component of the global dairy industry. As markets for milk powder continue to emerge and expand, manufacturers must increasingly engage in highly developed quality assurance practices to guarantee consistency, safety, and palatability.
Image Source: Flickr user Alan Levine
