GEA Filtration has launched an effective Ultrafiltration process to reduce the carbohydrate level in fluid milk in response to the growing popularity of the low carbohydrate/ high protein diets. Milk has always been on the "to avoid" list of these diets because of the high lactose (carbohydrate) content of a glass of milk. These diets typically restrict a dieter to less than 40 grams of carbohydrates per day. One glass of milk contains up to 13 grams per 8 oz serving.

Ultrafiltration of skim milk has long been used to increase the solids level for a variety of dairy products from the cheese vat to cultured products. Ultrafiltration membranes restrict the passage of milk proteins and milk fat allowing the passage of water, lactose and milk mineral through the membrane. The result is a base milk product that can be diluted back to original milk volume with water, milk mineral and artificial sweetener to produce a "Low Carb" milk product. The level of carbohydrates can be reduced to 3 grams per 8oz serving with standard ultrafiltration. Carbohydrates of less than 3 grams can be achieved with the addition of diafiltration, or additional water, to the ultrafiltration system that removes more lactose from the product.

The same base milk product can be used in low carbohydrate ice cream formulations, cultured yogurts and other dairy based products. Below is a typical mass balance of Ultrafiltered milk:

GEA Filtration is a leader in supplying sanitary membrane systems to the dairy industries with installations world wide. Our plants are constructed to 3A sanitary standards for compliance with USDA and local regulatory health agency requirements. For additional information please contact GEA Filtration at 715/386-9371 or visit our web site at www.geafiltration.com.

GEA Filtration
1600 O'Keefe Road
Hudson, WI 54016
Ph: 715/386-9371
www.geafiltration.com