In today’s busy life, the use of Bottle Milk has become very common. It has become a convenient option especially for infants, children and working people. But have you ever wondered how safe it is to keep, drink and store milk in a bottle? Is it really good for health?
In this blog, we will know in detail what are the advantages and disadvantages of Bottle Milk, how to use it correctly, and what things should be kept in mind. If you also store or consume bottle milk, then this information can be very important for you.
1. What is Bottle Milk?
Bottle Milk means milk that is stored in a plastic, glass, or steel bottle. This milk can be fresh, pasteurized, or packaged milk that is stored for a long time.
Milk in a bottle is usually used for babies and young children, but many people also carry it for travel, gym, or office.
2. Benefits of milk in a bottle
(i) Convenient and portable
Bottle milk can be easily carried anywhere. It is especially beneficial for those who travel or take children out.
(ii) Freshness of milk remains
If stored properly, milk kept in a bottle remains fresh for a long time. Especially milk stored in glass or steel bottle remains safe for a longer time.
(iii) Easy feeding for children
Sometimes there is difficulty in breastfeeding babies. In such a situation, bottle milk can be a good option, so that the child can get the right amount of milk.
(iv) Helps in consuming the right amount of milk
When you keep the milk in a bottle, you can track how much milk you drank. This is especially beneficial for fitness freaks.
(v) Ideal for formula milk
If your child cannot take mother’s milk, then giving formula milk in a bottle can be a good option.
3. Disadvantages of milk in a bottle
(i) Risk of bacteria and infection
If the bottle is not cleaned properly, bacteria can grow in it, which can cause infection to both children and adults.
(ii) Health hazards from plastic bottles
If you store milk in a plastic bottle, harmful chemicals like BPA (Bisphenol-A) present in it may get mixed in the milk, which may be harmful for health.
(iii) Nutrients may get destroyed by repeated heating
If you heat milk repeatedly, its essential nutrients may get destroyed. Especially it is not right to reheat infant milk.
(iv) Milk may get spoiled quickly
If you keep milk at room temperature for a long time, it may get spoiled quickly, which increases the risk of food poisoning.
4. The right way to store milk in a bottle
If you store milk in a bottle, follow the tips given below so that it remains fresh and safe for a long time:
(i) Choose the right bottle
- Glass bottle: The safest and best option.
- Stainless steel bottle: Durable and safe.
- BPA-free plastic bottle: Lightweight, but not ideal for long-term use.
(ii) Store the milk in the fridge
If you are storing the milk for a few hours, keep it in the fridge at a temperature below 4°C.
(iii) Clean the bottle properly
- Wash it with mild soap and hot water after each usage.
- Sterilize the bottle by boiling it from time to time.
- Do not leave milk residue in the bottle, this can cause bacteria to grow.
(iv) Deep freeze to store milk for a long time
If you need to store milk for a long time (3-6 months), keep it in a deep freezer at -18°C.
5. Which bottles are best for storing milk?
(i) Glass Bottle
- Maintains the purity of milk
- Chemical-free and eco-friendly
- Can be easily cleaned
(ii) Stainless Steel Bottle
- Light and durable
- Helps in keeping milk cold or hot
- Prevents bacteria from growing
(iii) BPA-free plastic bottles
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Are cheap
- But not good for long term use
6. Is it right to give milk in a bottle to children or not?
Breastfeeding is the best option for babies, but if you are giving bottle milk, keep some things in mind:
- Always give milk in a sterilized bottle.
- Use the milk kept in the bottle within 1-2 hours.
- Never give milk in a cheap plastic bottle, as it may cause chemical leakage.
7. How to keep bottled milk safe while traveling?
If you are traveling and want to carry milk in a bottle, then follow these tips:
- Use a thermally insulated bottle so that the milk remains at the right temperature.
- Boil the milk well before carrying it and cool it immediately.
- Store it with an ice pack while traveling.
Conclusion
The correct use of bottled milk can make it extremely convenient and safe. If you choose the right bottle, adopt the right methods of storing milk, and take full care of cleanliness, then it will be beneficial for you and your family.
So from now on, keep these important things in mind before storing and drinking bottle milk and stay healthy