At what temperature and for how long does a sweetened milk product need to be pasteurized?

The correct answer indicates that a sweetened milk product needs to be pasteurized at a temperature of 155 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes. This method of pasteurization effectively reduces harmful microorganisms to safe levels without significantly affecting the quality of the milk product. The temperature and time combination is part of a process designed to ensure that products are safe for consumption while preserving flavor and nutrients.

Pasteurization is a crucial step in the dairy industry, as it helps in extending the shelf-life of milk products and ensures food safety. The specific temperature and duration chosen are based on extensive research into the destruction rates of pathogens commonly found in milk. In this case, the conditions provide a balance between efficacy and maintaining the integrity of the product.

Other temperatures and time frames, such as those in the other options, do not provide adequate pasteurization to ensure safety. For instance, temperatures like 65 degrees F or 75 degrees F are far below the standards typically required for effective pasteurization, allowing for the potential survival of harmful bacteria. Similarly, the extremely low temperature of 100 degrees F or the ultra-brief exposure of 0.001 seconds are insufficient for pasteurization, failing to achieve the necessary reduction of pathogens. Therefore, the chosen method