Why does a carton of heavy cream last for 2 months in the refrigerator, but a carton of milk only lasts for about 1 week before expiration?

Question

Why does a carton of heavy cream last for 2 months in the refrigerator, but a carton of milk only lasts for about 1 week before expiration?

In: 6468

Answer 1

Creams are ultra-pasteurized, or UHT processed. Just means higher temp (ultra high temp) plus the additional fats help out too. Lower temp or standard pasteurization on milk and lower fats make all the difference.