An Assessment of Light-Induced Off-Flavors in Retail Milk

Samples of whole and skim milk from two local dairy plants that were packaged in 3.8-L plastic containers (nonreturnable high density polyethylene) and 1.9, .95, and .48-L fiberboard containers and displayed in the dairy cases of four local grocery stores under normal fluorescent light were analyzed for light-induced changes in flavor and riboflavin content. Milk samples were analyzed daily for flavor, odor, appearance, and riboflavin content. Sensory evaluation was by 25 untrained panelists, and riboflavin was determined by HPLC method. Milk samples were analyzed first in summer, then repeated in winter. Data indicated that under typical production and storage conditions in the area, type and size of container, fat content, and season of production had no major damaging effects on flavor, odor, appearance, or riboflavin content of retail milk.