NZMP has announced the launch of NZMP Gold Whole Milk Powder for ultra-high temperature (UHT) processed products.

The company explained its new product has been specifically designed for UHT-based beverages and gives manufacturers longer production runs in comparison to regular milk powders. It is also said to offer a cleaner label and consistent shelf-life stability.

NZMP has also claimed its Gold Whole Milk Powder provides better UHT stability and offers consistent product performance in process and formulation, as well as having good solubility and flow properties.

The Fonterra Research and Development Centre's senior research engineer Jarod Brain said: “By developing an even more stable UHT whole milk powder, we’ve been able to reduce the rate of fouling within UHT sterilisers.

“This allows businesses to run production lines for longer and reduces batch losses, compared to standard whole milk powders. Fewer batch losses mean that our customers are able to minimise wastage, which is also great for the environment.”

Brain further explained that UHT milk has become increasingly price sensitive and as a result the research and development team looked for ways to enable cost efficiencies during the manufacturing process.

"By developing an even more stable UHT whole milk powder, we’ve been able to reduce the rate of fouling within UHT sterilisers."

Brain added: “Clean labelling is a trend affecting more and more food and beverage companies and UHT milk is included in this.

“By controlling critical parameters in the UHT whole milk powder, we’ve been able to reduce the need for our customers to use any additives to manage processing challenges, meaning fewer ingredients on their final ingredient list.

“Changes in the manufacturing process also allow us to help our customers achieve a longer, more consistent shelf-life in their product.”

The product is the result of more than two years of research and development, including working closely with a producer of UHT milk drinks to meet its specific manufacturing and shelf-life stability requirements.

The product is now available in all major markets.