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

Cravendale milk by Arla has made a mark in the UK as the popular āfiltered milkā option. But what does āfilteredā 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 doesnāt contain added nutrients, making it neither clearly āgoodā nor ābadāājust different.
Hereās what makes Cravendale milk unique and worth considering.
What Exactly is Filtered Cravendale Milk?
Arlaās Cravendale milk is marketed as āfiltered,ā 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.
Cravendaleās unique process preserves both taste and nutrients, maintaining natural vitamins, minerals, and proteins without additives. Produced from British cows on sustainable farms, itās a quality choice focused on purity and freshness.
Cravendale Milk vs. Regular Whole Milk: Nutritional Comparison
Arlaās microfiltration process for Cravendale milk is carefully designed to maintain essential nutrients without breaking down milkās natural components.
Hereās how Cravendale full-fat milk compares nutritionally to standard full-fat milk from Sainsburyās 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 doesnāt offer more benefits than regular milkātheyāre nearly identical in protein, fat, and mineral content.
However, Cravendaleās microfiltration process gives it a much longer shelf life, which reduces spoilage due to lactic acid bacteria and waste.
Additionally, Cravendale is sourced from Arlaās 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 ābetterā 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 Cravendaleās 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 cowās milk with harmful bacteria removed through filtration. Its natural nutrient profile remains mostly unchanged, so thereās 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, itās 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 āmilkyā taste and safe production, Cravendale is a favourite among toddlers that are switching to cowās milk.
Since itās not UHT treated, Cravendale is a less radical transition from motherās 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 itās 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.