Recently updated on October 25th, 2024 at 11:58 am

Cravendale milk by Arla has made a mark in the UK as the popular “filtered milk” option. But what does “filtered” mean, and is it better or worse for you than regular milk?

By removing impurities and bacteria through a unique filtration process, Cravendale milk lasts longer and maintains freshness without additives. Many find it beneficial, though it doesn’t contain added nutrients, making it neither clearly “good” nor “bad”—just different.

Here’s what makes Cravendale milk unique and worth considering.

What Exactly is Filtered Cravendale Milk?

Arla’s Cravendale milk is marketed as “filtered,” which refers to a unique preservation process. Before undergoing standard pasteurization (high-temperature treatment in short intervals), Cravendale milk is passed through fine ceramic filters to remove bacteria, microorganisms, and impurities. This filtering process allows the milk to stay fresh longer without added preservatives, making it both safe and naturally long-lasting.

Cravendale is available in whole, semi-skimmed, and skimmed varieties, so you can choose the fat content that best suits your dietary needs. This filtering method is a key distinction from regular milk, focusing on freshness without compromising nutritional value.

What Makes Cravendale Milk Special?

Unlike standard pasteurized or ultra-high-temperature (UHT) milk, Cravendale uses microfiltration before conventional pasteurization, allowing it to stay fresh for up to three weeks without preservatives.

UHT milk undergoes processing at temperatures of 135°C or higher, which allows it to be stored unopened for months at room temperature. However, this intense heat not only kills harmful bacteria but also affects milk quality, reducing certain proteins and potentially diminishing vitamins, especially heat-sensitive ones like certain B vitamins.

Cravendale’s unique process preserves both taste and nutrients, maintaining natural vitamins, minerals, and proteins without additives. Produced from British cows on sustainable farms, it’s a quality choice focused on purity and freshness.

Cravendale Milk vs. Regular Whole Milk: Nutritional Comparison

Arla’s microfiltration process for Cravendale milk is carefully designed to maintain essential nutrients without breaking down milk’s natural components.

Here’s how Cravendale full-fat milk compares nutritionally to standard full-fat milk from Sainsbury’s for a 100ml serving:

Typical values Per 100 ml	Cravendale	Normal milk (full-fat)
Energy	65 kcal	66 kcal
Fat	3.6g	3.7g
– of which Saturates	2.3g	2.4g
Carbohydrate	4.7g	4.7g
– of which sugars	4.7g	4.7g
Protein	3.4g	3.5g
Salt	0.1g	0.11g
Calcium	122mg	124mg

Is Cravendale Milk Better than Regular Milk?

Nutritionally, Cravendale milk doesn’t offer more benefits than regular milk—they’re nearly identical in protein, fat, and mineral content.

However, Cravendale’s microfiltration process gives it a much longer shelf life, which reduces spoilage due to lactic acid bacteria and waste.

Additionally, Cravendale is sourced from Arla’s farms, which prioritize sustainable practices and cow welfare. This commitment ensures that Cravendale milk comes from healthy cows, free from hormones and other byproducts often associated with less regulated farms.

While it may not be “better” nutritionally, Cravendale milk offers advantages in freshness, ethical sourcing, and environmental sustainability, making it a preferred choice for many consumers.

Is Cravendale Milk Fortified?

Some consumers wonder if Cravendale’s microfiltration process affects its nutrient content, raising questions about added minerals or vitamins like calcium, vitamin B, or iodine.

However, Cravendale milk is simply fresh, raw cow’s milk with harmful bacteria removed through filtration. Its natural nutrient profile remains mostly unchanged, so there’s no need for additional fortification.

Is Cravendale Milk Lactose-free?

Cravendale full-fat milk contains lactose (natural sugar – 4.7g per 100ml) and is not suitable for lactose intolerant users, but there is a range of lactose-free products from Arla such as Lactofree milk that has a controlled lactose content.

Is Cravendale Milk Safe in Pregnancy?

Since it is free of preservatives, additives, hormones, and any potentially harmful ingredients, there is no reason why Cravendale milk would be more dangerous or questionable for pregnant women than regular cow milk.

That said, keep in mind that cow milk is a common allergen, so to exclude any potential dairy allergies, it’s best to contact your physician about cow milk consumption during pregnancy and strive towards safe and controlled use.

Is Cravendale Milk Good for Babies?

Many nursing mothers opt for Cravendale milk as a safe transition from breast milk to dairy. Due to its prolonged freshness, rich ‘milky’ taste and safe production, Cravendale is a favourite among toddlers that are switching to cow’s milk.

Since it’s not UHT treated, Cravendale is a less radical transition from mother’s milk to animal dairy than other conventional brands.

Conclusion: Is Cravendale Good or Bad for you?

Cravendale milk stands out for its nutrient retention, long-lasting freshness, and ethical sourcing practices. While it’s not organic, meaning it may lack higher levels of omega-3s and certain antioxidants found in some organic milks, Cravendale offers reliable quality, safety for all ages, and peace of mind for those who prioritize animal welfare and sustainable practices.

For regular milk drinkers, Cravendale provides a solid choice for quality, freshness, and responsible farming.