Final answer:
The delivery of refrigerated milk should typically be received at 4 °C (40 °F) or below, which ensures the inhibition of harmful bacteria growth. UHT pasteurized milk has a higher tolerance for storage temperatures but should still be kept cool to maintain quality. Regardless of pasteurization methods, keeping milk at the recommended temperature during transport and upon receipt is crucial for food safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
The maximum temperature at which milk should be received is closely tied to the pasteurization process it has undergone. For high-temperature short-time (HTST) pasteurization, the milk is exposed to a temperature of 72 °C for 15 seconds. This process significantly reduces bacterial numbers while maintaining the milk's quality. On the other hand, ultra-high-temperature (UHT) pasteurization involves heating milk to a temperature of 138 °C for at least 2 seconds, allowing it to be stored in a sealed container for a long time without refrigeration, although it may cause slight taste and smell changes due to protein alteration.
When receiving milk deliveries, it's crucial to ensure that the milk has not reached temperatures that would compromise its safety and quality. Typically, refrigerated milk should be received at temperatures at or below 4 °C (40 °F). This temperature inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause milk to spoil or become unsafe to consume. In comparison, UHT pasteurized milk can withstand higher storage temperatures due to its sterilization process; however, for quality purposes, it should still be stored at an appropriately low temperature.
In areas where refrigeration may be limited, innovative methods like the use of liquid nitrogen on dairy trucks can help maintain proper milk temperatures during transport. Nevertheless, regardless of the transportation method, maintaining the recommended maximum temperature for received milk is essential for food safety and quality.