Why do the 8 oz cartons of milk have a 6 month shelf life and need no refrigeration until opened?!
Answers:
because they have created a way of packaging milk that does not require refrigeration. Simple.
"The milk is pasteurized using UHT or ultra-high temperature which is the same as ultra-pasteurization (or UP) in which the milk is heated to >280° F for 2-3 seconds. This pasteurization process coupled with the aseptic packaging extends the shelf life of the milk and allows it to be stored at room temperature. You can find the "UHT" symbol on the back panel in the upper right corner underneath the straw."
"Single serve milks are packaged in aseptic tetrapaks and unopened will keep at room temperature up to seven months or until the date code. The milk is pasteurized using UHT or ultra-high temperature process which is similar to UP or ultra-pasteurization, in which the milk is heated to >280° F for 2-3 seconds, but packaged in a sterile environment thus extending its shelf life. The package itself is durable, lightweight, convenient for transport, and uses low energy and few materials. It is recyclable at any local program that accepts aseptic packages."
"Does Horizon single serve milk need refrigeration?
Single serve milks are packaged in aseptic containers and unopened will keep at room temperature up to seven months or until the date code. The milk is pasteurized using UHT or ultra-high temperature process and packaged in a sterile environment, thus extending its shelf life. Aseptic packaging is durable, lightweight, convenient for transport, and uses low energy and few materials."
From the Horizon website faq's are on the bottom, but can't link
http://www.horizondairy.com/
