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Milk pasteurisation and safety: a brief history and update

V H Holsinger1, K T Rajkowski, J R Stabel

  • 1Eastern Regional Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania 19038, USA.

Revue Scientifique Et Technique (International Office of Epizootics)
|August 1, 1997
PubMed

Insights

Current milk pasteurisation standards effectively ensure milk safety against most milk-borne pathogens. However, emerging threats like Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli O157:H7 require ongoing vigilance and adherence to good manufacturing practices.

Area of Science:

  • Food safety science
  • Microbiology
  • Public health

Background:

  • Milk pasteurisation has a long history of ensuring milk safety.
  • Evolving understanding of milk-borne pathogens necessitates updated safety assessments.

Observation:

  • Current pasteurisation standards are evaluated against emerging pathogens like Mycobacterium paratuberculosis, Listeria monocytogenes, and Escherichia coli O157:H7.
  • The efficacy of pasteurisation against Bacillus cereus endospores is noted as a potential limitation.

Findings:

  • Existing milk pasteurisation protocols are generally adequate for public health.
  • Good manufacturing practices are crucial for maintaining milk safety assurance.

Implications:

  • Continued monitoring of milk safety standards is essential.
  • Further research may be needed to address specific pathogen concerns, such as Bacillus cereus endospores.

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