What is the Difference Between Homogenization and Pasteurization

The main difference between homogenization and pasteurization is that homogenization is the breakdown of fat molecules in milk to resist separation whereas pasteurization is the heating of milk to kill bacteria.

Homogenization and pasteurization are two processes of milk production. Both processes have their own benefits in milk production. Generally, pasteurization is followed by homogenization.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Homogenization
     – Definition, Characteristics, Importance
2. What is Pasteurization
     – Definition, Characteristics, Importance
3. Similarities Between Homogenization and Pasteurization
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Homogenization and Pasteurization
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Homogenization, Pasteurization

What is Homogenization

Homogenization is reducing substances such as fat globules in milk. It makes small particles distribute uniformly throughout the milk. Therefore, homogenization allows the milk to mix well. Proper homogenization of milk prevents the formation of cream at the top of the milk. More importantly, homogenization increases the shelf life of milk. In general, homogenization is a mechanical process that does not involve additives. 

Figure 1: Homogenization

Furthermore, homogenization is important in creating skim milk by filtering out fat to produce 1-2% milk. In addition to changing the size of fat molecules, homogenization rearranges fat and protein molecules. During the process, the milk to homogenize passes through a small tube. This tube reduces the size of fat molecules.  This allows the fat molecules to remain dissolved in the milk. However, the fat in homogenized milk is easy to absorb by the body.   

What is Pasteurization

Pasteurization is the process of treating milk with heat. It heats the milk to less than 100 °C (212 °F). Generally, the two main important factors in milk production are removing pathogens and extending shelf life. The process of pasteurization destroys microorganisms and enzymes that allow milk to spoil. Hence, it removes vegetative bacteria and their spores.

Figure 2: Pasteurized Milk

Moreover, the process of pasteurization is named after the French microbiologist, Louis Pasteur, who demonstrated the thermal processing of deactivating unwanted microorganisms in wine. Pasteurization also inactivates the enzymes that are responsible for the spoilage of milk. Today, pasteurization is an important process in the dairy industry, food processing industries (for food preservation), and food safety.

Similarities Between Homogenization and Pasteurization

• Homogenization and pasteurization are two processes of milk production.
• Both have their own benefits in milk production.

Difference Between Homogenization and Pasteurization

Definition

Homogenization refers to a process by which the fat droplets from milk are emulsified and the cream does not separate while pasteurization refers to the partial sterilization of a product, such as milk or wine, to make it safe for consumption and improve its keeping quality.

Process

Usually, homogenization is the breakdown of fat molecules while pasteurization is the heating of milk.

Importance

Homogenization prevents the milk from separation while pasteurization prevents bacterial growth in milk.  

Function

Homogenization makes the milk easy to digest while pasteurization prevents the spoilage of milk.

Consequence

Moreover, homogenization is the second process of milk production while pasteurization is the first step of milk production.

Conclusion

In brief, homogenization and pasteurization are two processes of milk production. Homogenization is the breakdown of fat molecules in the milk. Therefore, it prevents the separation of milk. Homogenization also allows the milk to become easy to digest. Pasteurization, on the other hand, is the heating of milk to prevent bacterial growth. Therefore, pasteurization prevents the spoilage of milk. Usually, pasteurization is followed by homogenization. Hence, the main difference between homogenization and pasteurization is the importance of each process in milk production.

References:

1. “Homogenization.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.
2. “Pasteurization.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Homogenizing valve.” By Daniele Pugliesi – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Pasteurized milk -Japan” By eiko – Own Work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia