No, raw milk does not "spoil" in the traditional sense of becoming rotten and unusable. Instead, it undergoes a process that changes its flavor and properties, as explained in the provided reference.
Understanding Raw Milk Transformation
Instead of spoiling, raw milk develops:
- New Beneficial Bacteria: Raw milk grows new beneficial bacteria, acting as probiotics.
- Sour or Cheesy Flavor: It develops a sour or "cheesy" flavor.
The reference states, "At that point it will likely make you sick, but raw milk does not spoil. It goes to what we like to call 'the next level.' Raw milk grows new beneficial bacteria (pro biotics) and takes on a sour or 'cheesy' flavor. You can use it for drinking as long as you can tolerate the taste."
What Happens When Raw Milk Changes
Instead of Spoiling, Raw Milk...
- Transforms: It transforms through natural fermentation processes.
- Develops Acidity: The bacteria produce lactic acid, which gives it the sour taste.
- Can Be Consumed: As long as the taste is tolerable, it is still consumable.
Important Consideration:
- Potential Sickness: As the reference states, the milk at a certain stage might make you sick, thus proper safety measures and common sense should be used.
Raw Milk vs. Pasteurized Milk: A Comparison
| Feature | Raw Milk | Pasteurized Milk |
|---|---|---|
| Spoilage | Doesn't spoil, develops "new level" bacteria | Spoils and becomes putrid |
| Flavor Change | Turns sour or "cheesy" | Turns sour and unpalatable |
| Bacteria | Grows beneficial bacteria (probiotics) | Most bacteria are killed during processing |
Using Raw Milk After "Spoilage"
- Drinking: If the flavor is acceptable, it can still be consumed.
- Cooking: The soured milk is usable for baking or in cooking.
