What is the ideal storage temperature for pasteurized milk?

The ideal storage temperature for pasteurized milk is 38 °F. This temperature helps to maintain the quality and safety of the milk by slowing down the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can spoil the milk or potentially pose health risks. Storing pasteurized milk at this temperature range also helps preserve its flavor, nutrient content, and overall freshness.

Many food safety guidelines recommend keeping milk and other dairy products at or below 40 °F to ensure that they remain safe for consumption for as long as possible. However, 38 °F is often considered optimal since it strikes a balance between maintaining freshness and preventing spoilage. Additionally, temperatures higher than this can lead to a rapidly increasing risk of spoilage due to bacterial growth, while temperatures significantly lower than this could risk freezing, which would negatively affect the milk's texture and taste.